Ah, roast beef with gravy! This dish brings back such fond memories of family gatherings and cozy Sunday dinners. I can still hear my grandmother’s voice echo in my mind as she’d say, “A good roast is the heart of a great meal.” And boy, was she right! There’s something so comforting about the rich aroma of beef slowly roasting in the oven, filling the house with an irresistible scent, not to mention the look on everyone’s face when it’s time to serve up that tender, juicy meat smothered in homemade gravy.
Over the years, I’ve perfected my roast beef technique, and let me tell you, it’s easier than it looks! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a lovely weekend meal, roast beef with gravy is a timeless favorite that never disappoints. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) make for amazing sandwiches the next day. You’ll want to dive in, so let’s get to it!
What’s in Roast Beef with Gravy?
Beef Roast: The star of the show! I prefer using a chuck roast or a ribeye roast for their richness and flavor. You want a nice marbled piece of meat for tender results.
Beef Broth: This will be key for your gravy, adding a deep, savory flavor. Homemade is great if you have it, but store-bought works perfectly as well.
Onions: Sliced onions caramelize beautifully during roasting, adding sweetness and depth to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the flavor, giving it that aromatic boost that makes your mouth water.
Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are my go-to additions, bringing an earthy aroma that perfectly complements the beef.
Flour: For thickening the gravy. You could also use cornstarch if you’re keeping things gluten-free.
Is Roast Beef with Gravy Good for You?
Oh, roast beef can definitely be a part of a balanced diet!
Beef Roast: Packed with protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, roast beef can be a hearty and satisfying choice. Just be sure to lean towards grass-fed beef when possible for a healthier option.
Onions and Garlic: Both of these ingredients provide antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. They help support your immune system and can even add a little flavor fiesta to your dish!
However, it’s worth mentioning that beef can be high in saturated fat, so moderation is key. Pair your roast with plenty of veggies (hello, roasted carrots and steamed broccoli!) to keep things balanced.
Ingredients
– 3-5 pound beef roast (chuck roast or ribeye)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 medium onions, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped
– 3 tablespoons flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)
– Salt and pepper to taste
This recipe will serve 6-8 people, perfect for family and friends!
How to Make Roast Beef with Gravy?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is the perfect temperature for slow-roasting.
2. Season your beef roast generously with salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. I like to really rub it in and let the spices soak into the meat for extra flavor.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the beef on all sides until it’s browned—about 4-5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the roast from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the sliced onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan (flavor city!). Bring this to a gentle simmer.
6. Return the roast to the pan, placing it on top of the onions in the broth. Cover with foil and pop it in the oven for 3 to 4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.
7. Once done, remove the roast from the oven and keep it warm by tenting it with foil.
8. For the gravy, strain the liquid in the pan into a saucepan. In a small bowl, mix the flour with a bit of cold water to make a paste. Whisk this mixture into the pan juices over medium heat until it thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Slice the roast, serve it up with the rich gravy drizzled on top, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Roast
To elevate your roast beef experience, consider these tips:
– Pair the roast with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables—delicious comfort food!
– A fresh green salad or some crispy Brussels sprouts on the side provides a nice contrast and balances out the richness of the beef.
– For leftovers, make tasty sandwiches with some fresh crusty bread and maybe a little horseradish cream sauce for a kick!
I hope you feel inspired to whip up this roast beef with gravy! It’s such a comforting classic, and I’m sure you’ll create wonderful memories around the dinner table just like I have. Don’t forget to share your experience and any secrets you discover along the way! Happy cooking!