This post has been sponsored by Better Than Bouillon. All opinions expressed are my own.
Today we’re preparing a Top Round Beef Roast, which we’ll be topping with a thick brown gravy. This classic combination is perfect for small holiday gatherings or as a satisfying Sunday dinner. This recipe is shockingly easy to pull together, and a delight for senses.
We’ll be putting together today’s roast with a little help from our new friends over at Better Than Bouillon, but more on them in just a second.
In this recipe, we’ll be covering some gravy basics, including how to prepare a roux, the different types of roux, and how to use each type. We’ll also be covering some top round roast basics, and how best to pair today’s roast. I’ll also be providing an ingredient checklist and notes on each ingredient.
Now, without further delay, let’s get to it.
Top Round Roast – A Brief Primer
Top Round Roast comes from the ‘round’ of the cow, which is the hind area just above the shanks. This area of the cow is used for movement and support, and thus is under constant ‘tension’ when the cow is standing still, and receives exercise whenever the cow moves. Thus, the area tends to contain very, very little fat, while the ‘muscle meat’ tends to be very well developed. This leads to the area being tough (developed muscles), and being short on flavor (low fat), in comparison to other areas of the cow. However, this also has the effect of the making the meat perfect for ‘low and slow’ roasting. Regardless, there are a few ways to get around the meat’s general toughness and lack of fat. The first and most common method is to rub the roast down – thoroughly – with butter. This has the effect of introducing ‘fat’ into the roast, which it lacks naturally on its own, whilst also giving the outside of the roast just a hint of crispness during roasting. The second method is what we’re doing today, which to blend together oil and herbs, and then rub the roast down with that. While this doesn’t add quite as much ‘fat’ back into the roast, it does make for a much more flavorful roast, in my opinion.
Ingredient Checklist
- Rosemary. This, to me, ‘makes’ the rub, as fresh rosemary just works so well with meaty recipes such as this one.
- Salt. Ground sea salt would work wonders here.
- Black Pepper. Freshly ground pepper, in my opinion, is preferable for this particular recipe.
- Dried Oregano. Dried oregano is what you’re looking for. Fresh will be overpowering for this recipe.
- Garlic. Peel and then mince the garlic as fine as you can manage.
- Olive Oil. This acts as a base, binding the ingredients into a paste to allow rubbing it over the roast.
- Flour. The primary ingredient in the roux, along with the butter.
- Butter. Fat brings the gravy together by forming the base for the roux.
- Olive Oil. Roux can use either butter or oil, or a mix of both. For today’s roux, we’re opting for a mix of both. The addition of oil helps keep the roux from becoming too thick.
- Pan Drippings. A bit more fat for the roux, plus delicious ‘meaty flavor.’ This also adds in needed moisture.
- Bouillon. A good bouillon is, in my opinion, a must-have for ‘most’ gravy recipes. This is especially true if the gravy is being use as a ‘table sauce.’ Personally, I’m using Better Than Bouillon, which is acting as the flavor base for the gravy we’re using on the roast.
- Salt. Kosher salt for best results, although plain table salt is all you need here.
- Pepper. Freshly ground black pepper. I do prefer fresh ground, or even mortar ground pepper for my gravies, as the difference in aroma is quite noticeable.
Gravy Basics – A Brief Tutorial
- The Types of Roux. Gravy starts out as a basic roux. Roux comes in four classifications – white, blonde, brown, and dark brown. Each type contains the same basic ingredients (flour and fat), and are instead differentiated by cooking time. White roux is generally cooked for about five minutes or less, while dark brown roux can be cooked for upwards of thirty minutes. Generally speaking, white roux is not eaten on its own, but is instead used as an ingredient, typically as a thickening agent in various white sauces, such as bechamel. Blonde roux, also, is generally used as an ingredient, such as in velouté sauce, since it has a ‘darker’ or ‘nuttier’ flavor and a heavier texture than white roux. Finally, brown and dark brown roux are what you can begin to recognize as ‘gravy.’ Deeply flavorful and ‘pleasantly textured’ on its own, once you flavor it with pan drippings and herbs, you’ve got yourself a proper ‘table sauce.’ However, brown and dark brown roux are also sometimes used as an ingredient in dishes like gumbo.
- How To Make Roux. Begin with equal parts flour and ‘fat’ (fat can be butter, oil, vegetable oil, or a combination of butter and oil). It is ‘very’ important that you divide these parts by weight. Thus, one cup of fat (butter and/or oil) requires one cup of flour, and so forth. Begin by melting the butter in a sauce pan, and then add in the flour (add the flour all at once). Whisk this mixture until a thick, paste-like mixture has come together. Continue whisking until it has achieved the color you desire. Brown roux needs to be stirred constantly and vigorously to keep it from burning. Thus, the longer you cook your roux the more attention you need to give it. Do not leave ‘any’ type of roux cooking unattended. Seasonings and/or pan drippings, are added in with the flour.
- From Roux to Gravy. Roux becomes gravy based on what you add to it, such as pan drippings, seasonings, or – as we’re doing here – bouillon. Today, we’re sprucing up the roux with Better Than Bouillon Beef Base, which adds in a delicious roasted beef flavor. This is the easiest way to spruce up your roux, which in turn produces a deliciously seasoned, full-bodied gravy. So, be sure to spruce up your holiday by heading over to Better than Bouillon.
Pairing a Top Round Roast
- Biscuits. Flaky biscuits and a beef roast. That really is a match made in culinary heaven.
- Warmed Green Beans. An ideal pairing, especially on chilled autumn or winter nights would be string beans sautéed in extra virgin olive oil with cherry tomatoes, sweet onion, and plenty of garlic. Red and black pepper, and a dusting of parmesan, make this a wonderfully flavorful, yet blissfully simple, side dish.
- Sweet Potato Soup. A hardy sweet potato soup, prepared with an earthy and warming mix of onions, carrots, and, of course, sweet potatoes, carried on a chicken and parmesan broth, with plenty of herbs and garlic. The end result is a warming, flavorful soup that’s perfect for wintry meals, such as today’s top round roast.
How To Cook a Tender Roast Beef
For achieving a tender beef round roast with an easy herb-crusted recipe, the oven is your culinary ally. Here's the best way to make this happen:
- Choose the Right Cut: Start with a top round roast, often referred to as the "eye of round roast." It's a lean cut, and with the right method, it can be incredibly tender. We’re cooking a four and half pound roast, so adjust the ingredients and cook time according to the size of your roast.
- Prepare the Roast: Rub your roast with a flavorful herb mixture. Crushed fresh herbs in a mortar and pestle really do achieve the best results. This might include rosemary, fresh thyme, fresh herbs, garlic, salt, and pepper. These herbs will infuse the meat with delightful aromas and tastes.
- Preheat the Oven: Ensure your oven is adequately preheated. Typically, an oven temperature of 325°F (160°C) is ideal for slow cooking your round roast.
- Roasting Pan: Place your seasoned roast in a roasting pan, preferably with a rack to allow for even cooking and airflow. This prevents the meat from stewing in its juices.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is your best friend for precision. Insert it into the center of the roast, avoiding bones if any. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135-140°F (57-60°C), while medium would be around 145-150°F (63-66°C).
- Slow Cooking: Slow and steady every time. Roast your beef round at the set temperature. Remember, patience is key when aiming for tenderness.
- Basting: If you desire additional flavor and moisture, consider basting the roast with a mixture of red wine and beef broth.
- Rest the Roast: Once your roast reaches the desired level of doneness, take the finished roast out of the oven. Loosely tent it with aluminum foil on a wire rack, and let the roast rest for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender roast.
- Slicing: While this is purely a matter of preference, I personally think a great way to serve the roast is in thin slices. Cutting the roast into thin slices is a great way to ensure maximum saturation with either a rich gravy or beef broth.
With this easy herb-crusted recipe and precise cooking, you'll have a delicious, tender beef round roast that's perfect for Sunday dinners or any special occasion.
What is a Beef Round Roast? Comparison to Chuck Roast and Rump Roast
A beef round roast is a lean and flavorful cut that's often used for various culinary delights. Here's what you need to know about it, especially when comparing it to other roasts like chuck and rump:
Beef Round Roast:
- Lean, Tender, Tough: The round roast comes from the hind leg of the cow. As mentioned above, this is an area of the cow that is receiving constant exercise. That makes it a lean cut, with less marbling compared to cuts like chuck roast. This means it can be less juicy and tougher than most other cuts, but this also means that they tend to be an inexpensive cut of meat.
- Ideal Uses: Though tough, round roasts can achieve a melt in your texture when properly cooked, as the same qualities that make them tough also make them ideal for oven roasting, slow cooking, or even being popped into the instant pot. Basically, low and slow is the name of the game. Once properly prepared, they can be sliced for sandwiches, served as a roast dinner, or used in dishes like pot roast.
- Connective Tissue: While round roasts have less connective tissue compared to chuck roasts, they still contain quite a bit. This tissue can make the roast tough if not cooked properly. However, when cooked low and slow for extended periods of time, the connective tissue will melt down, infusing the roast with additional flavor, and tenderizing the meat.
- Cooking Methods: Round roasts do well with slow and moist cooking methods, like pot roasting in a Dutch oven or slow cooker. Cooking at a medium-high heat or high temperature can result in a tender roast, but low and slow is still preferred, as mentioned above.
Comparing to Chuck and Rump:
- Chuck Roast: Chuck roast comes from the shoulder of the cow and has more marbling and connective tissue. It's ideal for pot roasts, stews, and braising. It's known for its rich, beefy flavor.
- Rump Roast: Rump roast is also lean but not as tender as round roast. It's often roasted in the oven and sliced thin for dishes like roast beef sandwiches.
In short, a beef round roast is a fantastic cut for various dishes, especially when you're aiming for a leaner option. It can be tender and flavorful when cooked using the right methods. Comparatively, it has less marbling and connective tissue than chuck roast, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a leaner beef option. Whether you're using a slow cooker, Dutch oven, or instant pot, this easy herb-crusted recipe will help you make the most of your round roast.
Why You’ll Love this Easy Recipe
- Easy and Approachable: This recipe is perfect for beginners, even if you're attempting a roast for the first time. The straightforward cooking method and minimal prep make it accessible to both beginners and experienced home cooks alikes.
- Versatile Leftovers: Enjoy the roast beef not only on the day you make it but also the next day. Leftovers can be used in sandwiches, wraps, or salads, providing you with delectable meals for days to come.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe allows you to transform an affordable cut of beef round roast, readily available at your local grocery store, into a tender and savory meal for the whole family.
- Foolproof Cooking Method: The cooking process behind this roast recipe ensures that your beef round roast turns out tender and juicy every time. No need to worry about overcooking; an instant-read thermometer is your trusty guide.
Herb Crusted Beef Round Roast
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 1x
Ingredients
- 4 1/2 lb. Top Round Boneless Roast
- 5 - 6 carrots, peeled - for a rack for the roast
For the Rub:
- 2 tbs. of fresh rosemary, about 2 - 3 inch sprigs of fresh rosemary, leaves removed from stems
- 1 tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. fresh ground black pepper
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 2 small heads of garlic
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 2 tbs. olive oil
For the Gravy:
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 2 1/2 cups pan drippings (or water)
- 2 teaspoon Better than Bouillon Roasted Beef Base
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
Instructions
For the roast & rub:
- Place the garlic, removed from its skin, in a small dry cast iron frying pan and allow the garlic to get a golden color.
- Add the rosemary and the seasonings and toss.
- Add the olive oil and toss.
- Place this mixture in a food processor and give a few good chops.
- Using a large cast iron frying pan, place carrots down as a rack for the roast.
- Rub the roast down with the garlic mixture. Filling all crevasses and thoroughly messaging the roast with the mixture.
- Add a cup of water, or ½ water and ½ wine, to the bottom of the pan about 15 – 20 minutes before removing the roast from the pan. These drippings make a beautiful gravy.
- Preheat Oven 350 degrees F.
- Place the roast in the oven and cook for 25 – 30 minutes per pound for a medium cooked roast. The internal temperature should be about 145 degrees F. For a medium rare cooked roast subtract about 5 – 7 minutes per pound and the internal temperature should read about 135 degrees F.
- When the roast is removed from the oven loosely tent the roast with tin-foil and let the roast rest for 10 – 12 minutes before slicing.
For the gravy:
- In a pan, melt down butter with oil. Whisk in the flour until a thick paste forms (the roux).
- Add the pan drippings or water if you don't have pan drippings. Keep whisking until smooth and desired thickness is achieved.
- Add the bouillon and seasonings.
- Leave on low heat until ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Roast
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
Whether you're preparing this tender beef round roast for a special occasion or as a comforting family meal, it's bound to become a favorite. The ease of preparation, exquisite flavor, and the ability to enjoy it for days make it a recipe you'll want to keep in your culinary repertoire.
Happy Cooking!
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Lisa says
This roast and gravy would be great for an alternative Christmas dish. I will share it with my mother-in-law!
Yeah Lifestyle says
I am always looking to 'up' the taste of my gravy and would love to try using the Better Than Bouillon as I have never used it before.
Bella says
Oh this is so tasty!! I have to try this recipe. I have never tried Better Than Bouillon before is it gluten free.
angiesrecipes says
I love beef roast and can have it DAILY! This looks so good!
Heather says
I used this for the first time on my Thanksgiving turkey. It was so good! I'll never go back to the cubes.
Sue-Tanya Mchorgh says
I want to try making roast beef this Christmas. I am so happy I found this post. I can't wait to try this.
Melissa Dixon says
That looks amazing. I need to try this out, I love the idea of making it for lunches all week. I love having leftovers.
MELANIE EDJOURIAN says
That really does sound like a tasty recipe. I know my husband would really enjoy it and probably the kids too.
sherry brubaker says
This is the perfect holiday dinner! Better Than Bouillon is my favorite, too!
Toni says
I love using Better than Bouillon but never thought to use it in this way! This recipe is delicious and perfect comfort food for holiday meals. Yum!
DAVID J MYERS says
Catherine, That is a beautiful roast!! Cooked just right too... Do you cover the roast in the oven? How does it stay moist in the oven? I printed this recipe out for my better half... Stay Safe and Take Care, Big Daddy Dave
Catherine Pappas says
Dear Dave, Thank you for your kind words. I don't cover the roast in the oven. I tent it loosely when the roast comes out of the oven for about 10 - 15 minutes before I slice it. Please stay safe as well to you and Laurie.
Jess says
This will be perfect for our Sunday dinner!
Sue says
I was looking for something special for my Christmas menu, I'm so glad I found this!
Katie says
Made this for the family and it was a hit!
Heather says
This roast looks incredible! I'm definitely adding it to my holiday menu.
Romy says
This looks like a yummy tasty and perfect for winter recipe. I love the thick full flavored gravy too
Melanie williams says
Wow this really is the bees knees!! Perfect for a family dinner and well worth a go, my other half would love this x
Dan "Jay" Reyes says
You're making me hungry with these foodie pictures 🙂
Gloria says
I used that brand of bouillon ALL the time. In fact, it is on my grocery list right now. This looks holiday worthy. My family would love it.
Kathryn Donangelo says
This roast is delicious and so flavorful! I love using Better than Bullion and it just enhances all of the flavors. I will be making this on repeat from now on, thank you!
Lori | The Kitchen Whisperer says
Mmm this would be perfect any day of the week or even Christmas! I use Better than Bouillon too and LOVE it! Your roast looks truly stunning and something I need in my life right now! Thank you so much for sharing!
Denise says
I love Better than Bouillon products! This Herbed Top Roast with Gravy looks delicious, its the perfect meal!
Marta says
We absolutely loved this recipe. There nothing like a well seasoned & well prepared piece of beef. This recipe delivered on all fronts. Great flavor, super tender and awesome leftovers.
Thanks for sharing.
Eva says
What a roast fit for a festive table! I had considered ham for Christmas, but you are making me reconsider!
Elaine says
That gravy looks too good to be true. Yet it is. Not to say about the roast of course. It looks so delicious!
Jenny says
Such a classic, beautiful roast. I made it today for Sunday roast, and everyone loved it. So flavorful and tender. I think this will be my go-to recipe from now on. The rub is fantastic and made all the difference, and the gravy was my husband's favorite, ever! Thanks so much!
Veronika Sykorova says
I wish I could reach through the screen and grab some! That gravy looks delicious too!
Jo says
The flavors on the roast and the roast itself looks so inviting. Nothing can beat roast and gravy for dinner.
Melanie C says
Mmmmmm, good home cooking at it's best! I love a good roast and gravy, so I'll be giving your recipe a try this weekend! It looks delicious!
Larissa says
What type of Wine would you use for the drippings?
Living the Gourmet says
Dear Larissa, for this recipe red wine works best though you could also use white wine if you have it on hand. Thank you for stopping by! Enjoy!
Beth says
I've never done a roast for Christmas, but I think it might be time to change that. This looks absolutely amazing.
Stephanie says
This is such a delicious recipe! The beef is great but the gravy is amazing! I love having gravy for the beef and put it on a side of mashed potatoes.
Laura says
This looks sooo good. I am going to give it a try. I tend to dry out my beef roasts!
briannemanzb says
This makes a perfect Holiday dinner recipe for family and loved ones. I would love to give it a try!
Melissa Dixon says
That roast looks amazing. My grandmother used to make roasts when I was a kid and I have missed them so much. I may need to try this recipe and see if it is like hers, it sounds so good now!
Halloween Mosaic Art says
omg your roast looks out of this world!!! I can't wait to make it, looks really amazing. Perfect for Thanksgiving....
Khushboo says
It looks really so amazing. I will like to try this recipe sometime soon
Jupiter Hadley says
Oh wow this looks like such a star of the table type main! My grandmother use to make roasts for dinner, but it's been so long since I had one - thank you for sharing your recipe.
Rhian Westbury says
Oh wow that's a beautiful cut of meat. We're big fans of a good roast dinner in our house so this would go down a treat x
Kat says
This is mouth watering delicious looking Roast! Recipe looks not so complicated. I will definitely try this out for our weekend family dinner.
Yeah Lifestyle says
The round roast and gravy looks so delicious! I have never roasted using this part of the meat, so will look for it the next time I go to my butchers
Jean | DelightfulRepast.com says
Catherine, that is a gorgeous roast. And your photos are outstanding!
Melissa says
Can I cook this in a Dutch oven without the lid on? Or should I keep lid on? Thanks! I’ll be making this tomorrow.
Claudia says
I absolutely love this recipe! The beef was so tender, and the gravy was so rich. A+
Samantha Donnelly says
This sounds amazing, I was thinking the other day we have not had beef for a while
Indu says
Warm green beans and sweet potato soup are my favorites. Like this pairing with main dish.
Mayuri says
I am going to replace beef with lamb and see if it looks as delicious as this one, especially the gravy!
MELANIE E says
This herb crusted beef sounds wonderful. It would make a lovely dish for the family meal on a Sunday, especially with lots of gravy.
Lavanda Michelle says
As a wife and mom, I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting dishes to prepare for my family, and your recipe has truly inspired me. I KNOW my family will love this!!!
Marie Cris Angeles says
Looks so yummy! The meat looks so soft and juicy. This is the perfect dish for this coming Holiday. Thanks for the recipe.
Karen says
omg this looks sooooo good!!! Perfect main dish for Thanksgiving! I will do it. Thank you so much.
Sue-Tanya Mchorgh says
A Top Round Beef Roast with a rich brown gravy sounds like the perfect comfort food for any occasion! It's fantastic to see how this recipe covers the basics, making it accessible even for those less experienced in the kitchen. Thanks for sharing this mouthwatering delight!
Jupiter Hadley says
I never roast anything in the oven in the summer, but it's fall now and time to use the oven! Thank you for this recipe, yours looks fantastic.
Melanie williams says
It is all about the Sunday lunches that is for sure and you can not beat a good roast dinner especially one with quality ingredients like this xx
Marysa says
This sounds like a good holiday recipe or for any time we are entertaining. I am sure it makes the house smell so cozy and wonderful.
Celebrate Woman Today says
I use a lot of tips you provide during recipe prep. This one is great, especially with herb crust.
Melissa Cushing says
This roast looks so delicious and makes me want to make one today! Love it with mashed potatoes and that yummy gravy! It really is the perfect meal 😉
Miz Helen says
We sure have enjoyed featuring your awesome post at Full Plate Thursday, 662. Thanks so much for sharing with us and hope you will come back to see us soon!
Miz Helen
Connie Brandenburger-La Belle says
I am a bit confused by the instructions. Is this dry roasted. Any directions for making it in a crockpot. We never eat beef roast but do enjoy bison roast. Any tips for making it with bison
Living the Gourmet says
Hi Connie, Thank you for stopping by! Please share what you're confused about with the directions so I am further assist you 🙂 Also, we have not tried this recipe in a crockpot though I imagine you can easily do so. As far as bison, I do not have any tips for that as I have not cooked with bison before. Thank you for stopping by!