Name: Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: French-American
Ingredients: 3–3½ lb beef chuck roast; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme); 1 cup beef broth; ½ cup dry white wine (optional); 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 2 tablespoons water; fresh parsley

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If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’re going to love the Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe. This dish masterfully blends the rich, caramelly goodness of French onions with tender, juicy beef chuck roast, all infused with classic herbs and savory notes that sing with every bite. Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, you get all these deep, comforting flavors cooked to perfection in a fraction of the usual time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special Sunday dinner, this recipe always delivers that satisfyingly hearty, melt-in-your-mouth experience you won’t soon forget.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients for cooking arranged on a white marbled surface. On the right side, there is a clear glass bowl with a thick piece of red raw meat with white fat marbling. To the upper left, a large metal bowl holds three different layers: the bottom layer has small yellow potato pieces, the middle layer has cut orange carrot rounds, and the top layer has chunks of white onion. Near the bottom left of the metal bowl are three small white containers: one holding a brown sauce, another with a dry seasoning mix of grey and yellow bits, and the smallest dish with a yellow minced ingredient. In front of the meat is a clear glass measuring cup filled with water. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients list is straightforward but each component plays an essential role. From the savory chuck roast providing rich texture to the sweet caramelized onions layering complex flavor, every item here works together to create a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

3–3½ lb beef chuck roast: The perfect cut for pressure cooking, becoming tender and flavorful.
2 teaspoons kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors and seasons the beef evenly.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle, spicy kick that complements the roast’s richness.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for searing to develop a deep, caramelized crust on the meat.
3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced: The star ingredient for that classic sweet and savory French onion flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth to the onion base.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a savory umami punch to the broth.
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar: Balances sweetness with a touch of acidity for brightness.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Adds fragrant herbal notes that elevate the flavor profile.
1 cup beef broth: Provides a robust, savory base that keeps the roast moist and tender.
½ cup dry white wine (optional): Enhances complexity and depth in the braising liquid.
2 tablespoons cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening): Perfect for creating a luscious onion gravy finish.
Optional garnish: fresh parsley: Adds a pop of color and fresh herb aroma when serving.

How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Roast

Start by seasoning your beef chuck roast liberally with kosher salt and black pepper. This simple step is key to building flavor right from the beginning. Next, set your Instant Pot to the Sauté (High) function and heat olive oil until shimmering. Carefully brown the roast on all sides, getting that rich, caramelized crust which adds incredible texture and depth to the final dish. Once browned, remove the roast and set it aside—don’t rush this step, it makes all the difference!

Step 2: Sauté the Onions Until Caramelized

Add the thinly sliced yellow onions to the hot pot and cook them for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow sauté brings out the natural sugars, transforming the onions into silky, golden morsels bursting with sweet, savory flavor. You’ll know they’re ready when they’ve softened and developed a beautiful caramel color, which forms the heart of your French onion flavor base.

Step 3: Build Layers of Flavor

Once your onions are perfectly caramelized, stir in the minced garlic, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and thyme. This flavorful blend adds complexity, balancing sweetness, tang, and herbs before we bring everything together. Pour in the beef broth and the optional dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any brown bits stuck from searing—the key to that signature rich gravy.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Pot Roast

Return the browned chuck roast back into the pot, nestling it among the aromatic onion mixture. Spoon some of the onions over the top to infuse the meat with all those gorgeous flavors. Secure the Instant Pot lid and ensure the valve is set to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 60 minutes, then allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes before finishing with a quick release. This method ensures maximum tenderness with a juicy, fall-apart texture.

Step 5: Optional Gravy Thickening

For a luscious, silky gravy, set the Instant Pot back to Sauté after removing the roast. Mix cornstarch and water to create a slurry and stir it into the pot juices. Simmer gently until thickened to your desired consistency—this step turns the onion broth into a rich sauce to drizzle over your pot roast for extra comfort and richness.

How to Serve Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe

The image shows a blue cast iron pot filled with rich brown shredded meat mixed with caramelized onions, topped with melted white cheese that is creamy and slightly stringy. There are two slices of crusty light brown bread resting on the meat and cheese near the left side of the pot. A gold spoon is dipped into the pot, scooping up some of the meat and cheese, positioned near the center. Small green sprigs of thyme are scattered over the dish, adding a touch of fresh color. The inside edge of the pot shows brown seasoning residue, and the pot sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a simple yet brilliant garnish here, adding a vibrant green pop of color and a light herbal aroma that contrasts beautifully with the deep flavors of the roast. Feel free to sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper on top for an added layer of spice and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This pot roast pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes that soak up every drop of the sumptuous gravy. Egg noodles or buttered crusty bread are also fantastic choices, offering a comforting starch to balance the hearty beef and onions perfectly. Roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple green salad can brighten the plate and add freshness to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the shredded pot roast in toasted French baguette slices topped with the caramelized onions and gravy for an open-faced sandwich that’s absolutely irresistible. Or, plate the sliced roast atop a bed of polenta or buttery grits for a cozy, rustic feel. Adding a dollop of horseradish cream on the side can introduce a zing of brightness and spice that complements the rich flavors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors further meld overnight, often making leftovers taste even better the next day. Properly stored, it will keep well for up to 4 days, making it a convenient option for quick meals during a busy week.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Portion the pot roast and onions along with some of the cooking juices into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to keep the meat moist. If you prepared the cornstarch gravy, reheat it separately and pour over the warm pot roast to refresh that luscious sauce.

FAQs

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

While chuck roast is ideal for its marbling and tenderness when pressure cooked, you can use other cuts like brisket or rump roast. Just keep in mind cooking times might vary slightly, and the texture may differ.

Is it necessary to add wine to the recipe?

The white wine is optional but adds an extra layer of acidity and complexity. If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply omit it or replace it with additional beef broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar for brightness.

Can I make the gravy thicker without cornstarch?

Yes, you can simmer the onion broth longer to reduce it down and concentrate flavors without cornstarch. Alternatively, a flour-based roux or arrowroot powder can also work as thickening agents.

How long can I keep leftovers refrigerated?

Properly stored, leftovers will stay good for up to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to keep them in a sealed container to maintain freshness and prevent any odors from spreading.

What’s the best way to reheat the pot roast to avoid drying it out?

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave with a cover to trap moisture. Adding a little broth or sauce when reheating helps keep the meat juicy and tender.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe is truly a game-changer for comfort food lovers. With its rich, layered flavors and tender, juicy beef, it transforms a classic into a quick and easy meal that feels special every time. Give it a try and watch how this simple, homey dish becomes a favorite in your family’s repertoire, bringing warmth and smiles to your table.