French Onion Braised Beef for Ultimate Cozy Comfort

French Onion Braised Beef is a melt-in-your-mouth dish infused with rich, savory flavors, perfect for cozy family gatherings.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 20

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: French

Calories: 580

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

For the Beef

3 lbs Beef Chuck Roast The perfect cut for tender, slow-cooked beef with rich flavor.
2 tablespoons Neutral Oil Essential for searing beef, creating a flavorful base.
Kosher Salt Season generously to enhance all the savory notes.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper Season generously to enhance all the savory notes.

For the Aromatics

3 tablespoons Butter Adds richness and depth to the dish.
4 Yellow Onions Slice thinly for optimal caramelization and sweetness.
4 Garlic Cloves Thinly sliced to boost flavor with a lovely aromatic touch.

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard Introduces tanginess that balances the dish’s richness.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce Provides umami depth.
3 tablespoons All-purpose Flour Thickens the braising liquid for that luscious texture.
1 cup Dry Vermouth Adds depth; white wine or beef stock with vinegar works as alternatives.
6 cups Beef Stock Infuses moisture and flavor, making the braise utterly delicious.
2 Fresh Bay Leaves Enhance the dish with herbal notes.
8 Thyme Sprigs Enhance the dish with herbal notes.

For the Topping

1 Demi Baguette Adds that coveted crunch; swap for any crusty bread if preferred.
3 tablespoons Olive Oil Drizzle over bread before toasting for extra crispy goodness.
4 oz Gruyère Cheese Melts beautifully, adding creamy richness.
2 tablespoons Fresh Thyme Leaves Used as a fragrant garnish for added flavor.

Equipment

large heavy pot
Baking Sheet
oven

Method

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

In a large, heavy pot, heat 2 tablespoons of neutral oil over medium-high heat. Sear the 3 lbs of beef chuck roast for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned. Remove beef and set aside.
Reduce the heat to medium add 3 tablespoons of butter. Add 4 thinly sliced yellow onions and sauté for 30 minutes until caramel brown. Add 4 thinly sliced garlic cloves and cook for 3-4 minutes.
Stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, and 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Gradually pour in 1 cup of dry vermouth and then add in 6 cups beef stock.
Return the seared beef to the pot. Add 2 fresh bay leaves and 8 thyme sprigs. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer, cover, and braise in a 325°F oven for 3-4 hours.
Slice the demi baguette and drizzle with 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Toast in the oven for about 10 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
In an oven-safe dish, layer the tender beef with its sauce, then place the toasted bread on top. Sprinkle 4 oz of grated Gruyère cheese and broil for 3-4 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 580kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Let the beef cool and refrigerate overnight to improve flavors if prepared ahead of time.

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