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: American
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 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

Published: October 9, 2025

by Dian

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Cooking Time: With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a flavorful pot roast in just over an hour.
Rich Flavors: The combination of caramelized onions and herbs creates a depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it on its own or with sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Family-Friendly: A hearty meal that appeals to both adults and kids alike.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Instant Pot
Chef’s knife
Cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Instant Pot: This multi-cooker speeds up the cooking process while ensuring tender meat and rich flavors.
Chef’s Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for easily slicing onions and preparing ingredients efficiently.
Cutting Board: A stable surface makes chopping ingredients safer and more manageable.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Ideal for stirring without scratching your pot’s interior.

Ingredients

For this recipe, gather the following 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)

How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Step 1: Sear the Beef

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

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

In the same pot, add sliced onions.
Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until caramelized and golden brown.
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 to enhance flavor depth.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Return the seared roast to the pot.
Add beef broth, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves.
Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot 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.
Carefully release any remaining pressure afterward.

Step 6: Serve

Remove bay leaves from the pot.
Shred the roast using two forks.
Serve hot, topped with shredded Gruyère cheese and fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy this comforting dish that brings warmth to any table!

How to Serve Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Serving your Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve and enhance your meal.

Classic Comfort

With Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes complement the savory flavors of the roast perfectly.
On a Toasted Baguette: Serve the shredded beef on small pieces of toasted baguette for an elegant appetizer.

Gourmet Touch

Garnished with Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or thyme over the top for added color and flavor.
With Gruyère Cheese: Melt a layer of Gruyère cheese on top for a rich finish that enhances the dish.

Accompanying Sauces

With Horseradish Sauce: A dollop of horseradish sauce adds a zesty kick to the savory beef.
Served with Au Jus: Use the cooking liquid as an au jus for dipping or drizzling over the meat.

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.

Choose Quality Meat: A good quality beef chuck roast ensures tenderness and flavor.
Sear Properly: Take time to sear the roast well; this step enhances the overall taste through caramelization.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and onions bring out deeper flavors compared to dried alternatives.
Don’t Rush Natural Release: Allowing for natural pressure release helps retain moisture in the meat, ensuring it remains juicy.
Adjust Seasoning After Cooking: Taste and adjust seasoning after cooking if needed, especially salt and pepper.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Pairing your Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast with complementary sides can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: A lower-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, it’s creamy and flavorful.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy and slightly caramelized, these add a nice crunch to your plate.
Buttered Egg Noodles: Simple yet satisfying, they soak up juices from the pot roast beautifully.
Green Beans Amandine: Lightly sautéed green beans with toasted almonds add texture and freshness.
Creamy Polenta: This comforting side provides a smooth base that pairs well with rich meats.
Caesar Salad: A fresh salad adds brightness and cuts through the richness of the pot roast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sometimes, things can go wrong in the kitchen, especially when using an Instant Pot. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for to ensure your Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast turns out perfectly.

Skipping the Sear: Not searing the beef can lead to a less flavorful dish. Take the time to brown the roast on all sides for a richer taste.
Ignoring the Natural Release: Rushing the pressure release can result in tough meat. Allowing natural pressure release helps maintain tenderness.
Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients may affect cooking times. Ensure there’s enough space for steam to circulate evenly.
Using Low-Quality Broth: Poor-quality broth can diminish flavor. Opt for a good-quality beef broth or homemade version for better results.
Not Adjusting Seasonings: Every cut of meat varies in flavor. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving to enhance overall taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use microwave-safe dishes and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes, stirring between each interval until hot.
Stovetop: Heat slowly over low-medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to prevent drying out.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making this dish, here are some frequently asked questions that might help.

Can I use other cuts of beef for Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

Yes! Cuts like brisket or round roast work well, but adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese?

You can use mozzarella, provolone, or even vegan cheese alternatives if desired.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast?

Consider adding more herbs like rosemary or using homemade broth for added depth of flavor.

Is it possible to make this recipe without an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! You can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or stovetop method; just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is not only hearty and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite herbs or side dishes. Don’t hesitate to give it a try—your family will love this rich and savory meal!