# Slow Cooker Pot Roast with French Onion Gravy
This slow cooker pot roast recipe is a wonderful fusion of tastes, showcasing a tender chuck roast and caramelized onions that blend into a robust, savory French onion gravy. Accompanied by creamy mashed potatoes and cheesy toasts, this meal elevates a regular dinner into a memorable event.
## Flavor Profile
The secret to the delectable nature of this pot roast lies in the caramelized onions, seasonings, and beef drippings that craft a deeply flavored onion gravy. Drawing inspiration from traditional French onion soup, we present this dish with cheesy toasts that enhance the savory elements of the roast.
## Cooking Method
### Slow Cooker Setting
For the best tenderness, it is advisable to cook the chuck roast on the low setting. Utilizing high can lead to a tougher roast, as the low and slow technique ensures the meat breaks down appropriately.
### Serving Suggestions
This pot roast shines when served over smooth mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or rice, lavishly drizzled with gravy. It also pairs effectively with roasted baby red potatoes or a variety of roasted vegetables.
## Ingredient Tips
– **Onions**: Opt for yellow onions for a traditional flavor; refrain from using sweet onions, as they may overly sweeten the gravy.
– **Dry White Wine**: Contributes depth to the flavor and aids in deglazing the skillet. If desired, replace it with extra broth.
– **Beef Roast**: Chuck roast is excellent for slow cooking due to its tenderness. Alternatives include round roast or rump roast, but steer clear of lean cuts.
– **Beef Stock or Broth**: Stock yields a richer gravy, but broth works as a suitable substitute. Choose low-sodium versions if preferred.
## Variations
– Sauté mushrooms alongside the onions for extra flavor.
– To achieve neatly sliced roast, tie the roast with kitchen twine prior to searing and keep it tied during the cooking process.
– Amplify the flavor with a bouquet garni of fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or rosemary.
## How to Make a Slow Cooker Pot Roast
1. **Sear the Roast**: Season and sear the roast in a skillet, then position it in the slow cooker.
2. **Caramelize Onions**: Sauté onions and garlic until soft, deglaze with wine, and pour over the roast.
3. **Add Ingredients**: Mix in the remaining ingredients and cook on low.
4. **Finish and Serve**: Allow the roast to rest, thicken the gravy, and serve it over mashed potatoes with cheesy toasts alongside.
### Prep Tips
– Prepare cheesy toasts up to 48 hours prior and reheat before serving.
– Caramelize onions up to 3 days ahead of time.
– Combine gravy ingredients earlier for easier preparation.
### Storage Tips
– **Leftovers**: Keep cooked pot roast in gravy in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days.
– **Freezing**: Freeze in gravy for 2–3 months for optimal quality.
– **Reheating**: Heat on the stovetop with a splash of broth or microwave in short spurts.
## Conclusion
This slow cooker pot roast is ideal for hectic weeknights while still offering the essence of a special meal. With its rich flavors and comforting sides, it is bound to become a family favorite. Relish the process of crafting this delightful dish, and enjoy the flavorful outcome!