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

Yes! While chuck roast is best due to its marbling, you can substitute with brisket, bottom round, or beef shoulder roast . Just keep in mind that leaner cuts might be less juicy.

Do I have to sear the roast before putting it in the slow cooker?

Searing isn’t mandatory, but it adds a rich depth of flavor . If you're short on time, you can skip this step, but your roast might not be as flavorful.

Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook it in a Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender.

How can I make this dish keto-friendly?

To make this low-carb , skip the cornstarch and use xanthan gum as a thickener. Also, ensure your onion soup mix doesn’t contain added sugars or starches.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble everything the night before , store it in the fridge, and pop it into the slow cooker the next morning.

What are the best side dishes to serve with this pot roast?

This French Onion Pot Roast pairs well with: . Mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles . Roasted vegetables (carrots, green beans, Brussels sprouts) . Crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy

Slow Cooker French Onion Pot Roast

Description

A comforting, flavor-packed slow cooker meal with tender beef, caramelized onions, and a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for busy nights or meal prep!

Ingredients

Scale

1 large onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 packet (1 oz) beefy onion soup mix
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
2 cans (10.5 oz each) condensed French onion soup, divided
2–3 lb chuck roast
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/2 cup unsalted butter, sliced
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons cornstarch
Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

In a bowl, mix onion, garlic, soup mix, thyme, and rosemary.
Spray an 8-quart slow cooker with cooking spray. Add half of the onion mixture and pour one can of French onion soup over it.
Pat the chuck roast dry and season with salt and pepper.
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil, and sear the roast for 5 minutes per side.
Place the seared roast in the slow cooker, top with remaining onions and the second can of French onion soup.
Dot with butter slices, cover, and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours.
Remove the roast and set aside. Pour the remaining liquid into a skillet over medium heat.
Mix water and cornstarch in a small bowl to create a slurry.
Slowly whisk the slurry into the simmering liquid and cook until the gravy thickens.
Return shredded roast to the slow cooker and mix with the gravy.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve over mashed potatoes, noodles, or rice.

Notes

For best flavor, sear the roast before slow cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 980mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: slow cooker, French onion pot roast, beef, crock pot recipe