Save A hearty comforting casserole that combines tender pot roast with sweet caramelized onions savory beef broth and a cheesy golden crust—perfect for cozy family dinners.
I first served this French Onion Pot Roast Casserole to my family on a chilly evening and it instantly became a favorite comfort meal.
Ingredients
- Meat & Stock: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) chuck roast trimmed and cut into large chunks 4 cups (1 L) beef broth low sodium 2 tbsp olive oil
- Vegetables: 4 large yellow onions thinly sliced 3 cloves garlic minced 2 medium carrots peeled and sliced 2 stalks celery sliced
- Seasonings: 1 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper 1 tsp dried thyme 1 bay leaf
- Topping: 6 slices French bread or baguette 1 1/2 cups (150 g) Gruyère cheese shredded 1/2 cup (50 g) Parmesan cheese grated
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Step 2:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Step 3:
- Add sliced onions to the same pot. Cook over medium heat stirring frequently until deeply caramelized about 25-30 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Step 4:
- Stir in carrots and celery then return beef to the pot. Sprinkle with salt pepper thyme and add bay leaf.
- Step 5:
- Pour in beef broth scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer.
- Step 6:
- Cover and transfer to the oven. Bake for 2 hours or until the beef is very tender.
- Step 7:
- Remove from oven. Discard bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Step 8:
- Preheat broiler.
- Step 9:
- Arrange bread slices on top of the casserole overlapping slightly. Sprinkle with Gruyère and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 10:
- Broil uncovered for 3-5 minutes or until cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Step 11:
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pin it This recipe always brings my family together sharing stories and laughter over a warm comforting meal.
Required Tools
Large Dutch oven or oven-safe casserole dish Sharp knife Cutting board Wooden spoon Cheese grater
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cheese) gluten (bread) and may contain traces of soy depending on broth used. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 530 Total Fat 26 g Carbohydrates 32 g Protein 43 g
Pin it This French Onion Pot Roast Casserole is perfect for meal prepping and tastes even better the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What cut of beef works best for this dish?
Chuck roast is ideal due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking, providing rich flavor and texture.
- → How do I achieve deeply caramelized onions?
Cook sliced onions slowly over medium heat, stirring frequently for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and sweet.
- → Can I substitute the cheeses?
Yes, Swiss cheese can replace Gruyère for a milder flavor without sacrificing meltability.
- → What is the purpose of broiling at the end?
Broiling melts and browns the cheese topping, creating a flavorful golden crust that adds texture contrast.
- → How should leftovers be stored?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve moisture.
- → Can I add alcohol to enhance flavor?
A splash of dry sherry or brandy added with the broth enriches the savory depth and complexity of the dish.