French Onion Pot Roast

This hearty French Onion Pot Roast recipe creates a savory, tender roast infused with the rich flavors of French onion soup and vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner or special occasion, it combines tender beef, mushrooms, carrots, and a deliciously seasoned gravy.

Ingredients:

• 2-3 lb. beef pot roast (chuck roast works best for tenderness)
• 1 can (10.5 oz.) French onion soup
• 2-3 cups water, as needed
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 8 large button mushrooms, cleaned and quartered
• 2 large carrots, peeled and thickly sliced
• Optional: Fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for additional flavor

Equipment:

• Electric skillet or Dutch oven
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Instructions:

Prepare the Roast:

1. Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a good sear.
2. Season all sides of the roast generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Sear the Roast:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in an electric skillet (or a Dutch oven) over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
2. Place the roast in the skillet and let it cook undisturbed for about 5-6 minutes until a dark crust forms.
3. Using tongs, turn the roast over and sear the other side for another 5-6 minutes.

Deglaze and Slow Cook:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the French onion soup and 2 cups of water. Pour this mixture over the browned roast in the skillet.
2. Reduce the heat to 225°F and cover, allowing the roast to cook slowly for about 3 hours. If you’re using a Dutch oven, transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C).
3. Turn the roast over halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.

Add Vegetables:

1. After the roast has been cooking for about 2 hours, add the quartered mushrooms and sliced carrots around the roast.
2. If the liquid level looks low or the mixture is thickening too much, add more water to prevent drying out.

Finishing the Dish:

1. Continue cooking covered for the final hour, until the meat is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
2. Optionally, sprinkle some fresh herbs over the roast during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.

Serve:

1. Once cooked, remove the roast from the skillet or Dutch oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Serve the slices with the cooked vegetables and spoon the flavorful cooking juices over the top.

Notes:

• For added comfort, serve the roast with mashed potatoes on the side.
• Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Enjoy your French Onion Pot Roast—a flavorful, tender meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!