Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe

There is nothing quite like the rich, melt-in-your-mouth comfort of a pot roast, especially when it carries the deep, caramelized flavor of French onions in every bite. This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe brings together tender chunks of beef chuck roast simmered alongside sweet, savory onions and a luscious beef gravy, all in a fraction of the usual cooking time. Whether you’re craving a cozy family meal on a chilly evening or impressing friends with a dinner that tastes like it took all day, this recipe promises mouthwatering satisfaction with minimal fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients that build layers of flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the hearty beef that forms the base, to the aromatic onions that add sweetness and depth, and the rich beef broth that ties everything together into a silky gravy.

• 3 pounds boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 10 chunks: This cut is perfect for melting into tender, flavorful bites after pressure cooking.
• 3 tablespoons steak seasoning: Adds an immediate burst of savory complexity and a touch of spice to the meat.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances all the natural flavors without overpowering the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses subtle heat and aromatic richness to complement the onions.
• 2 large white or yellow onions, sliced: Caramelize and soften to give this pot roast its signature sweet and robust French onion flavor.
• 1 ½ cups reduced-sodium beef broth, divided: Provides depth and liquid for cooking, plus the perfect base for the gravy.
• 1 tablespoon Better Than Beef Bouillon: Packs an umami punch that intensifies the beefy goodness.
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Helps thicken the cooking liquid into a luscious gravy you’ll want to ladle on everything.
• 1 bay leaf: Adds subtle earthy notes and balances the savory flavors with a hint of herbal aroma.

How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Start by placing the chuck roast pieces in the Instant Pot’s inner pot. This is the star ingredient that will become wonderfully tender with pressure cooking, so make sure the pieces are evenly sized to cook at the same rate.

Step 2: Season Generously

Sprinkle the steak seasoning and kosher salt all over the beef chunks. This seasoning layer locks in flavor and creates a crust that enhances the overall taste once cooked.

Step 3: Add Broth, Garlic, and Onions

Pour in 1 and 1/4 cups of the beef broth, creating a moist cooking environment. Next, scatter the minced garlic evenly on top of the meat, followed by the sliced onions. These onions will soften and caramelize under pressure, turning sweet and silky as they mingle with the beef.

Step 4: Introduce Bouillon and Bay Leaf

Add the Better Than Beef Bouillon and bay leaf into the pot. The bouillon enriches the broth’s flavor, while the bay leaf infuses subtle aromatic notes that elevate this classic dish.

Step 5: Pressure Cook the Roast

Seal the Instant Pot by closing and locking the lid, and make sure the pressure release valve is set to sealing. Set the cooker to manual high pressure for 60 minutes. This timing is perfect for breaking down the collagen in the beef to achieve that tender fork-ready texture.

Step 6: Natural Pressure Release

Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 25 minutes. This slow release helps keep the meat moist and tender.

Step 7: Shred the Meat

Open the lid carefully and remove the bay leaf, then shred the meat using two forks. The beef should pull apart effortlessly and soak up the delicious juices.

Step 8: Thicken the Gravy

Mix the remaining 1/4 cup of beef broth with cornstarch until smooth. Switch the Instant Pot to sauté mode and stir this mixture into the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the broth thickens into a rich, silky gravy that coats the savory onion and roast perfectly.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the luscious gravy over the shredded beef and onions, and get ready to dive into one of the most satisfying meals you can make quickly in your Instant Pot.

How to Serve Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe

Garnishes

To add an extra touch of freshness and flavor contrast, garnish your pot roast with chopped fresh parsley or thyme leaves. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few thin slices of green onion can add a vibrant pop of color and subtle brightness that complements the rich sauce wonderfully.

Side Dishes

This French Onion Pot Roast shines when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up all the delicious gravy. A side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad also provides a refreshing balance, making the meal feel complete and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the shredded roast piled high in warm artisan rolls for a hearty sandwich. Alternatively, spoon it over creamy polenta or use it to top baked potatoes for a comforting twist. This versatile Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe can adapt beautifully to whatever your craving calls for.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover pot roast and gravy in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors develop even more after resting, making for some of the best next-day meals.

Freezing

This dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Separate the meat and gravy for easier reheating, or freeze together in a freezer-safe container. Just be sure to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

Reheat the pot roast gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. If the gravy is too thick after refrigeration or freezing, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?

Absolutely! While chuck roast is ideal for tenderness and flavor, you can also use brisket or round roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly to reach that perfect tenderness.

Is it necessary to slice the onions for this recipe?

Slicing the onions allows them to cook evenly and caramelize beautifully in the Instant Pot, giving that classic French onion flavor. Rough chopping won’t yield the same texture or flavor balance.

Can I make this recipe without the Better Than Beef Bouillon?

Yes, you can substitute it with beef broth or base you have on hand, but the bouillon really amps up the depth of beef flavor, so it’s highly recommended if you want that rich, savory taste.

How do I know when the roast is done?

The roast is done when it shreds easily with a fork. The high-pressure cooking for 60 minutes is calibrated to break down the collagen perfectly, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.

Can I double the recipe to feed a crowd?

You can double the ingredients, but make sure not to exceed your Instant Pot’s maximum fill line. You may need to cook in batches or use a larger pressure cooker for bigger portions.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe offers the soul-soothing satisfaction of a traditional pot roast with the simplicity and speed that busy lives demand. It’s a dish that feels special but is surprisingly easy to pull off any night of the week. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone who wants to enjoy classic comfort food without the long wait. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite on your family’s dinner table!

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