Save to Pinterest A cozy, deeply savory casserole combining tender pot roast, caramelized onions, and cheesy goodness—an ultimate comfort food inspired by classic French onion soup.
This pot roast casserole quickly became a family favorite, perfect for weekend dinners and easy to prepare ahead.
Ingredients
- Beef & Aromatics: 2.5 lbs (1.1 kg) chuck roast cut into large chunks, 2 tablespoons olive oil, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, 2 large yellow onions thinly sliced, 4 garlic cloves minced, 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried), 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Liquids: 1 cup (240 ml) dry red wine, 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth (gluten-free if needed), 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Vegetables: 2 large carrots peeled and sliced, 2 celery stalks sliced
- Topping: 1 baguette sliced and lightly toasted (use gluten-free bread for GF), 2 cups (200 g) shredded Gruyère cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Sear Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches until browned on all sides. Transfer to a plate.
- Caramelize Onions:
- Reduce heat to medium. Add sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Cook stirring often until onions are deeply caramelized about 20–25 minutes. Add garlic thyme and tomato paste cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Deglaze:
- Pour in red wine scraping up any browned bits. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth Worcestershire sauce carrots and celery. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
- Braise:
- Cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
- Increase Heat:
- Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
- Add Topping:
- Remove the pot from the oven. Arrange toasted baguette slices over the top. Sprinkle generously with Gruyère cheese.
- Bake:
- Return to the oven uncovered and bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
- Rest:
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this dish brings everyone to the table, turning simple meals into cherished family moments.
Required Tools
Dutch oven or heavy casserole dish Chefs knife Cutting board Wooden spoon Oven-safe serving dish
Allergen Information
Contains Dairy (cheese) Gluten (baguette use gluten-free bread if needed) Soy and fish in Worcestershire sauce check label for allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 545 Total Fat 27 g Carbohydrates 31 g Protein 41 g per serving
Save to Pinterest This casserole is perfect for those cool nights when you want a dish that feels like a warm hug.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What cut of beef is best for this dish?
Chuck roast works well due to its marbling and ability to become tender during slow cooking.
- → How do I achieve deeply caramelized onions?
Cook sliced onions slowly over medium heat with occasional stirring for about 20–25 minutes until golden and sweet.
- → Can I use another cheese if Gruyère is unavailable?
Swiss or Emmental cheese are good alternatives that also melt well and complement the flavors.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the baguette with gluten-free bread and ensuring all broths and sauces are gluten-free.
- → What role does the red wine play in the dish?
Red wine adds depth and complexity, enhancing the savory notes and tenderizing the beef during braising.