Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is a delightful combination of tender beef and the rich, savory flavors of caramelized onions. Perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, this dish is not only comforting but also quick to prepare in your Instant Pot. With its bold flavors and ease of cooking, you’ll find it becomes a go-to recipe for any dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time compared to traditional methods, making it easy to enjoy this hearty dish on a busy weeknight.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of caramelized onions and herbs creates a depth of flavor that will impress your family and guests.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one pot, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones.
• Versatile Serving Options: This dish pairs well with various sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread, making it adaptable to your meal preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it an excellent option for meal prepping.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe successfully, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are the must-have items to help you create this fantastic dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Instant Pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Instant Pot: Speeds up cooking time while ensuring consistent results. It’s perfect for achieving that tender roast without hours of waiting.
• Cutting Board: Provides a safe surface for slicing ingredients like onions and garlic, which are key to building flavor in this recipe.
• Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife makes prep work easier and more efficient, helping to quickly chop vegetables.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

For the Roast

• 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Onions and Flavoring

• 4 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

Liquid Ingredients

• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup dry white apple vinegar (or additional broth)

Seasonings

• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 bay leaves

Optional Toppings

• 1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional, for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Add olive oil. Once hot:
1. Season the roast with salt and pepper.
2. Sear it on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side).
3. Remove the roast and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In the same pot:
1. Add the sliced onions.
2. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they are caramelized and golden brown (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the apple vinegar (or extra broth):
1. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to enhance flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Return the seared roast to the pot:
1. Add beef broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves.
2. Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 60 minutes.

Step 5: Release Pressure

Once cooking is complete:
1. Allow a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes.
2. Carefully release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Shred and Serve

Remove bay leaves:
1. Shred the roast with two forks.
2. Serve hot topped with shredded Gruyère cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast!

How to Serve Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Serving Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is an opportunity to showcase its rich flavors and comforting nature. Whether for a casual family dinner or a special gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly with the savory beef and onion gravy. The smooth texture complements the dish nicely.

On a Bed of Rice

• Serving the pot roast over rice absorbs the flavorful juices, making each bite satisfying and delicious.

Inside a Warm Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, hollow out a bread bowl and fill it with the pot roast. This adds an exciting presentation and delicious flavor from the bread.

With Fresh Green Salad

• A crisp green salad adds freshness to balance the richness of the roast. Toss in your favorite dressing for added zing.

Topped with Cheese

• If you love cheese, consider topping your pot roast with shredded Gruyère or another melting cheese before serving. It adds creaminess and depth to every bite.

How to Perfect Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Achieving the perfect Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for a tender and flavorful dish.

• Choose the right cut: Use a beef chuck roast for optimal tenderness and flavor during cooking.
• Sear properly: Don’t skip searing the meat; it locks in juices and creates a rich crust that enhances flavor.
• Caramelize onions well: Take your time to caramelize onions until they are golden brown; this sweetness is essential for depth of flavor.
• Use quality broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth for better control over seasoning while maintaining flavor.
• Allow natural pressure release: Letting the pressure release naturally helps keep the meat tender and juicy.
• Adjust seasonings to taste: After cooking, taste and adjust salt or pepper as needed to achieve your desired flavor profile.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Pairing side dishes with your Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread

2. Perfect for soaking up the delicious gravy while adding a crunchy texture.

3. Roasted Vegetables

4. Seasonal roasted veggies make a colorful addition that complements the savory flavors of the pot roast.

5. Cauliflower Mash

6. A lighter alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash offers creamy goodness without extra carbs.

7. Steamed Green Beans

8. These provide a fresh and crisp element, balancing out the richness of the pot roast.

9. Buttered Noodles

10. Simple buttered egg noodles serve as an excellent base for savoring all those delicious juices from the roast.

11. Coleslaw

12. A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and brightness, making it a refreshing contrast to the hearty pot roast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Searing: Not searing the roast can result in a bland flavor. Always brown the meat first to enhance taste.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recipe’s ingredient amounts for even results.
• Ignoring Natural Pressure Release: Rushing to release pressure can toughen the meat. Allow for natural release time to keep it tender.
• Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth will affect the overall flavor. Use a good-quality beef broth for the best taste.
• Not Adjusting Seasonings: Each cut of meat varies in flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Lasts up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Reheat in microwave-safe dish on medium power, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast.

How long does it take to cook Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

The cooking time is approximately 60 minutes under high pressure, plus additional time for natural pressure release.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute beef with lamb or chicken if desired, adjusting cooking times accordingly.

What should I serve with Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

Pair with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

How do I customize my Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

Feel free to add different herbs or vegetables like carrots and celery for added flavor!

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors and tender meat, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions. It’s versatile too; customize it with your favorite herbs or side dishes. Try this recipe today and enjoy a comforting meal in less time!