Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Name: Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 3-4 lbs beef chuck roast; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 large onions, thinly sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup beef broth; 1 cup dry white apple vinegar (or additional broth); 2 teaspoons fresh thyme; 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 bay leaves

Published: November 21, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Cooking Time: The Instant Pot reduces cooking time significantly, allowing you to enjoy this hearty meal in just over an hour.
Rich Flavor: Caramelized onions and savory herbs infuse the roast with deep, satisfying flavors that elevate any dinner.
Easy Preparation: With simple steps and minimal hands-on time, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it over mashed potatoes or rice for a complete meal.
One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your delicious creation with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Instant Pot
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Instant Pot: The star of the show! This appliance allows for quick pressure cooking, resulting in tender meat and rich flavors.
Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for preparing your onions and garlic efficiently.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring ingredients without scratching the pot’s surface.

Ingredients

3-4 lbs beef chuck roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 large onions, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup dry white apple vinegar (or additional broth)
2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
2 bay leaves
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional, for serving)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Step 1: Sear the Roast

Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil. Once hot, season the roast with salt and pepper. Sear it on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove the roast from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Caramelize Onions

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

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the apple vinegar (or extra broth). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. This will enhance the flavor of your dish.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Return the seared roast to the pot. Add beef broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot. Set it to Manual or Pressure Cook on high for 60 minutes.

Step 5: Release Pressure

Once cooking time is up, allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes. After that, carefully release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the bay leaves. Shred the roast using two forks while still in the pot. 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 a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish to your family and friends.

Classic Serving Suggestions

With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes pair perfectly, soaking up the rich gravy.
Over Rice: Serve the pot roast over fluffy rice for a hearty meal that balances flavors.
On a Sandwich: Shred the beef and serve it on crusty bread for a delicious sandwich treat.

Elegant Plating Ideas

In a Bowl: Present the roast with gravy in a deep bowl, garnished with fresh parsley for color.
With Cheese Toast: Top toasted bread with Gruyère cheese and serve alongside the roast for added flavor.

Accompaniments

Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans or carrots add a fresh touch to this savory dish.
Salad: A crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pot roast.

How to Perfect Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

To achieve the best results with your Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance flavor and texture, making your meal exceptional.

Use Quality Meat: Choose a well-marbled beef chuck roast for tenderness and flavor.
Brown Thoroughly: Ensure you sear the meat until browned on all sides; this adds depth to the final dish.
Caramelize Onions Well: Take your time caramelizing the onions; golden brown is key to building flavor.
Add Depth with Vinegar: The dry white apple vinegar helps brighten flavors—don’t skip this step!
Natural Pressure Release: Allowing natural pressure release retains moisture and tenderness in the roast.
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix in herbs like rosemary or oregano for additional flavor profiles.

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. Here are some fantastic options that complement its rich flavors beautifully.

Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for dipping into the savory gravy.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness balances well with the richness of the roast.
Creamed Spinach: This creamy dish adds a wonderful texture contrast to your meal.
Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw cuts through the heaviness of the pot roast, providing crunch.
Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs nicely with savory pot roast flavors.
Cauliflower Mash: A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, it still delivers creaminess and comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

Skipping the searing step: Searing the roast enhances its flavor and creates a rich base for your dish. Don’t rush this step; take the time to brown all sides.
Using too much liquid: The Instant Pot retains moisture, so using too much broth can lead to a watery dish. Stick to the recommended amounts for best results.
Not allowing natural pressure release: Rushing the pressure release can result in tougher meat. Allow for at least 15 minutes of natural release for tender, juicy results.
Forgetting to remove bay leaves: Bay leaves add flavor during cooking but are not edible. Make sure to take them out before serving to avoid an unpleasant experience.
Skipping garnishes: Toppings like Gruyère cheese or fresh parsley elevate your dish visually and add flavor. Don’t skip these final touches!

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Portion the roast into smaller servings before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
Label containers with the date; it can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place roast in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Place portions on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring between until warmed through.
Stovetop: Heat over medium-low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of meat for this Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

Yes, you can use other cuts like brisket or round roast, but adjust cooking times as needed since they may vary in tenderness.

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

Serve it with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or over egg noodles for a complete meal that complements the rich flavors.

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

Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or potatoes during cooking. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Yes! You can slow cook this pot roast in a traditional slow cooker by adjusting the cooking time accordingly (usually around 8 hours on low).

Final Thoughts

Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is a delightful combination of tender beef and savory onions that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to adapt it easily by adding your favorite herbs or side dishes. Try this comforting recipe at your next family gathering!