If you are craving a dish that marries tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef with deep, rich caramelized onions, then this Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe takes the classic French onion flavor profile, with its sweet and savory layers, and infuses it into a hearty pot roast cooked quickly and effortlessly in your Instant Pot. The result is a luscious, satisfying meal that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked all day but comes together in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a comforting dinner to savor, this Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is surprisingly simple, but each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that incredible depth of flavor and perfect texture. From the robust beef chuck roast to the caramelized onions and the aromatic thyme, every component has its moment to shine.

3-4 lbs beef chuck roast: Choose a well-marbled cut for juicy, tender meat after cooking.
2 tablespoons olive oil: Perfect for searing the roast to lock in flavor and develop a savory crust.
4 large onions, thinly sliced: The star of the dish, slowly caramelized to bring a sweet, rich base.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch to complement the onions.
1 cup beef broth: Provides a savory liquid for the roast to cook in, keeping it moist.
1 cup dry white wine (or additional broth): Helps deglaze the pot and infuses the dish with subtle acidity and complexity.
2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Brings an earthy, herbal note that enhances the meat and onions.
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth for a well-rounded flavor profile.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning every layer perfectly.
2 bay leaves: A subtle aromatic that rounds out the flavors as the dish cooks.
1 cup Gruyère cheese, shredded (optional for serving): Adds a nutty, melty topping that elevates the dish beautifully.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Provides a fresh, bright contrast to the rich flavors.

How to Make Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Step 1: Searing the Meat

First, set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and add the olive oil. When the oil is hot and shimmering, season your beef chuck roast generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Place the roast in the pot and sear it for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until it develops a beautiful golden-brown crust. This step locks in juices and adds incredible flavor, so don’t skip it! Once browned, remove the roast and set it aside while you prepare the onions.

Step 2: Caramelizing the Onions

In the same pot, toss in the thinly sliced onions. Stir occasionally and let them cook down slowly until they turn a rich, golden brown color, about 10 to 15 minutes. This caramelization process builds sweetness and complexity that will truly transform your pot roast. Add the minced garlic during the last minute and stir to combine, releasing that wonderful, toasty aroma.

Step 3: Deglazing the Pot

Next, pour in the dry white wine (or extra beef broth if you prefer) to deglaze the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up all those wonderful browned bits stuck to the bottom. These brown bits are packed with flavor and will create a deeply savory broth that infuses the entire dish with character.

Step 4: Pressure Cooking the Roast

Return the seared roast to the pot and add the beef broth, fresh thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set it to “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high for 60 minutes. This step allows the meat to become irresistibly tender while soaking up all those delicious flavors you’ve layered so carefully.

Step 5: Natural Release and Serving Preparation

Once the cooking time ends, allow for a natural pressure release of about 15 minutes to keep the meat juicy and tender. Carefully release any remaining pressure, remove the bay leaves, and shred the roast using two forks right in the pot or on a serving platter. For an extra touch of indulgence, top with shredded Gruyère cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve it hot and watch those flavors shine.

How to Serve Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast

Garnishes

Topping your Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast with shredded Gruyère cheese brings a creamy, nutty richness that melts beautifully over the hot meat. Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also gives a bright, herbaceous contrast that balances the savory depth perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with classic mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even buttered egg noodles to soak up every bit of that flavorful sauce. Roasted seasonal vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts also make an excellent complement, adding texture and earthiness to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving the shredded roast over toasted baguette slices for a rustic open-faced sandwich, or spoon it onto buttered dinner rolls for sliders. You can also layer the roast and onions in a casserole dish topped with Gruyère and broil briefly for a gratin-style presentation that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

This pot roast freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and store for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing to preserve the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water to maintain moistness and prevent the meat from drying out. If you froze the dish, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

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

Yes! While beef chuck roast is ideal because of its fat content and tenderness after cooking, you can also use brisket or arm roast. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed to ensure tenderness.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the recipe?

White wine adds acidity and complexity, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, just substitute an equal amount of beef broth. The dish will still be delicious, just a bit less tangy.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! Sear the meat and caramelize the onions on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours until the meat is tender.

How do I know when the roast is done in the Instant Pot?

The 60-minute pressure cooking time is a reliable guideline for a 3 to 4 lb chuck roast. Once done, the meat should be fork-tender and easily shreddable.

What can I substitute for Gruyère cheese if I don’t have it?

Swiss cheese or even mozzarella can work as milder alternatives to Gruyère if you want that melty cheese topping without the strong nutty flavor.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about curling up with a warm plate of Instant Pot French Onion Pot Roast—it’s comfort food elevated to a whole new level with its deep flavor layers and tender meat that practically melts in your mouth. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; once you taste how simple ingredients come together to create something so rich and satisfying, it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen just like it is in mine.