Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory French Onion Braised Beef?
It is a hearty meal featuring succulent chunks of bottom round beef slow-cooked in a rich onion-infused sauce, served over creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe makes approximately 4 to 6 servings.
What cut of beef is recommended?
The recipe calls for 3-4 lbs of bottom round beef roast.
How long does the beef cook in the crock pot?
The beef should be cooked on the high setting for 4 to 5 hours until it is tender and easily shreds.
What ingredients are used for the braising liquid?
The liquid consists of French onion soup, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, hot sauce, and beef bouillon cubes.
Is this braised beef spicy?
The recipe includes 2 tablespoons of Sriracha for a touch of heat, but you can adjust this to your preference.
What makes the mashed potatoes creamy?
The addition of softened cream cheese and milk creates a velvety and rich texture.
How much garlic is in the mashed potatoes?
The recipe uses 1 tablespoon of minced garlic cloves for the potatoes.
When should I cut the beef into chunks?
The beef should be cooked whole in the crock pot first, then removed and cut into chunks before being returned to the sauce.
How long should I boil the potatoes?
Boil the peeled and quartered potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
What tools can I use to mash the potatoes?
You can use a traditional potato masher, a hand mixer, or a ricer to achieve your desired consistency.
Should I season the beef before cooking?
Yes, you should season the roast with salt and pepper to taste before placing it in the crock pot.
What provides the onion flavor in the sauce?
The flavor comes from a combination of a can of French onion soup and a packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix.
How many potatoes are needed?
The recipe requires 5 large potatoes that are peeled and quartered.
How do I serve this dish?
Plate a generous scoop of garlic mashed potatoes, top with the braised beef, and drizzle with the sauce from the crock pot.
What is the purpose of the red wine vinegar?
The red wine vinegar adds a bit of acidity to balance the rich and savory flavors of the beef and onion.
Do I need to add water to the crock pot?
No, the liquid from the French onion soup and other sauces provides enough moisture for braising.
How much cream cheese is used?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of softened cream cheese.
How many beef bouillon cubes are required?
You will need 3 beef bouillon cubes crumbled over the liquid.
Can I use a different type of roast?
While bottom round is specified, other pot roast cuts like chuck roast would also work well for slow cooking.
What size is the French onion soup can?
The recipe calls for one 18.5 ounce can of French onion soup.
Is the Lipton Onion Soup Mix added to the liquid?
It is sprinkled on top of the roast in the crock pot for concentrated flavor.
How much Worcestershire sauce is needed?
The recipe requires 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce.
Is the beef shredded or cubed?
The recipe suggests cutting the tender beef into chunks after cooking.
How much milk goes into the potatoes?
You should add 1/4 cup of milk, or more if needed for your preferred texture.
Can I make this for a special occasion?
Yes, while easy enough for weeknights, its rich flavors make it perfect for special gatherings.
What size is the onion soup mix packet?
The recipe uses one 1.5 ounce packet.
Do I drain the potatoes before mashing?
Yes, drain the water completely before returning them to the pot to mash.
What is the total ingredient count?
There are 13 total ingredients used in this recipe.
Is there any sugar in this recipe?
The nutritional data for sugar is not specified, though some may be present in the prepared soup and sauces.