If you’re searching for a hearty, budget-friendly roast that delivers rich flavor and tender texture, this Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef recipe is your new best friend. This cut of beef, known for its lean profile and robust beefy flavor, transforms beautifully when slow-roasted to perfection. Whether it’s a family dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe promises juicy slices packed with flavor, easy preparation, and classic appeal. You’ll love how the simple seasonings enhance the savory taste, while the oven’s gentle heat locks in moisture, making the bottom round roast surprisingly tender.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients: Uses basic pantry staples that pack a flavorful punch without fuss.
- Budget-friendly beef: Bottom round is an affordable cut that becomes melt-in-your-mouth with proper roasting.
- Family crowd-pleaser: A comforting roast that suits casual dinners or special occasions alike.
- Hands-off cooking: Once seasoned and in the oven, it requires minimal attention so you can relax.
- Versatile leftovers: Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or hearty soups the next day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient here is chosen to complement the beef’s natural flavor, adding depth, color, and a savory aroma that transforms simple meat into a memorable meal.
- Bottom round beef roast: The star of the dish, this lean cut benefits from slow roasting to increase tenderness.
- Olive oil: Helps to lock in moisture and ensures a beautiful browned crust on the roast.
- Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic infuses a warm, aromatic flavor that enhances every slice.
- Fresh rosemary and thyme: These herbs add earthy notes that balance the beef’s richness perfectly.
- Coarse salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these bring out the natural taste of the beef.
- Onion powder and paprika: Add a subtle sweetness and smoky undertone without overpowering the roast.
- Beef broth or water: Used to maintain moisture in the oven during roasting and create a flavorful base for drippings.
Variations for Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef
This recipe is beautifully adaptable, allowing you to mix and match flavors or adjust for dietary preferences without hassle.
- Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.
- Herb blend swap: Use oregano, sage, or parsley for different herbal notes depending on mood or pantry availability.
- Marinated version: Marinate the beef overnight with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Slow cooker adaptation: Convert the recipe for slow cooking to get even more tender meat with less active cooking time.
- Gluten-free option: Simply ensure all seasonings and broth are gluten-free; the recipe is naturally friendly.
How to Make Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef
Step 1: Prepare the Roast
Start by patting the bottom round dry with paper towels, which helps achieve a better sear. Rub the roast generously with olive oil, followed by an even coating of salt, pepper, garlic, onion powder, paprika, and chopped fresh herbs.
Step 2: Preheat and Sear
Preheat your oven to 325°F. Next, heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until it develops a deep brown crust, locking in juices and flavor. This usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side.
Step 3: Roast in the Oven
Place the seared roast on a rack inside a roasting pan and add a splash of beef broth or water to the pan to keep the environment moist. Roast uncovered for about 90 minutes to 2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F for medium-rare, adjusting time as needed for preferred doneness.
Step 4: Rest Before Slicing
Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain. Resting redistributes the juices for tender, juicy bites.
Pro Tips for Making Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensures perfect doneness without guessing or overcooking.
- Don’t skip resting: Resting is crucial to lock in moisture and make slicing easier.
- Trim excess fat: Trim any tough silver skin or large fat deposits before cooking for even heat distribution.
- Slice thinly: Cutting against the grain maximizes tenderness with every bite.
- Save the drippings: Use pan drippings for a quick gravy or au jus to serve alongside.
How to Serve Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme sprinkled over the sliced beef add color and a burst of fresh aroma. A dollop of horseradish cream or Dijon mustard also pairs beautifully and elevates flavor.
Side Dishes
This roast pairs wonderfully with roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a bright green salad. For a hearty spread, consider buttered noodles or a savory Yorkshire pudding to soak up juices.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the roast as thin slices stacked on rustic bread for sandwiches or alongside roasted garlic aioli as a sophisticated appetizer. Also, thin slices make an excellent addition to hearty beef stews or burritos.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place leftover Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Slicing before storing makes it easy to grab portions for quick meals.
Freezing
This roast freezes wonderfully. Wrap tightly in heavy-duty foil or freezer-safe bags, then store for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To keep the beef moist, reheat gently in a covered dish with a splash of beef broth at low temperature in the oven or microwave, avoiding overcooking.
FAQs
Is bottom round beef tender enough for roasting?
Yes! While naturally lean and a bit tougher than some cuts, slow roasting at moderate temperatures breaks down connective tissues, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
Can I cook this roast in a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Absolutely. Sear the meat first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours with broth and seasonings for a hands-off, tender result.
What is the ideal temperature to cook Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef?
The best internal temperature is around 135°F for medium-rare, but you can adjust to your preferred level of doneness. Use a reliable meat thermometer for accuracy.
Should I cover the roast while cooking?
It’s best to roast uncovered to develop a flavorful crust, but adding a little broth to the pan helps keep the environment moist and juicy.
How do I prevent the roast from drying out?
Proper seasoning, searing before roasting, not overcooking, and resting after cooking all help maintain moisture and tenderness.
Final Thoughts
Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef is a simple yet impressive dish that brings warmth and flavor to any meal. Its straightforward preparation, budget-friendly nature, and delicious results make it a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. Give it a try for your next family gathering or cozy dinner and enjoy the satisfying taste of tender, perfectly roasted beef every time.
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Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Oven Roasted Bottom Round Beef recipe offers a budget-friendly yet flavorful roast that yields tender, juicy slices perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Using simple pantry staples and fresh herbs, the slow roasting technique enhances the natural beefy flavor while locking in moisture, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth texture with minimal hands-on cooking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 to 4 lb bottom round beef roast
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tsp coarse salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Prepare the Roast: Pat the bottom round roast dry with paper towels to ensure a better sear. Rub the roast generously with olive oil, then evenly coat it with salt, black pepper, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, and chopped fresh rosemary and thyme.
- Preheat and Sear: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef on all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. This step helps lock in juices and flavor.
- Roast in the Oven: Place the seared roast on a rack inside a roasting pan. Add a splash (about 1/2 cup) of beef broth or water to the pan to maintain moisture. Roast uncovered for 90 minutes to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium-rare. Adjust cooking time as needed for your preferred doneness.
- Rest Before Slicing: Remove the roast from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Slice thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness and serve.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
- Resting the roast is crucial to lock in moisture.
- Trim off any tough silver skin or large fat deposits before cooking for even heat distribution.
- Slice thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness.
- Save the pan drippings to make gravy or au jus.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (113g) cooked beef
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
