Perfectly Tender Bottom Round Roast with Savory Gravy

There’s nothing like the smell of a perfectly seasoned roast filling your kitchen. Imagine slicing into a tender, juicy cut of beef, perfectly cooked with a savory herb crust and smothered in rich, homemade gravy. If you’ve ever been nervous about cooking a roast, this Perfectly Tender Bottom Round Roast with Savory Gravy is here to change your mind.

This foolproof recipe turns an affordable cut of beef into a mouthwatering meal with simple, easy-to-follow steps. The secret lies in a flavorful seasoning rub, proper roasting technique, and a silky gravy that brings everything together. Whether you’re preparing a special Sunday dinner, hosting family for the holidays, or just craving a hearty meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Let’s dive into the step-by-step guide and make a roast that’s perfectly tender, delicious, and easy to master!

Why You’ll Love This Bottom Round Roast Recipe

• Affordable and Flavorful: Bottom round roast is a budget-friendly cut of beef, yet it can be transformed into a restaurant-quality dish with a few simple techniques.
• Perfectly Tender: By roasting at high heat first and then lowering the temperature, you’ll achieve a tender and juicy roast every time.
• Rich Savory Gravy: The homemade gravy, made from pan drippings, ties everything together with deep flavor.
• Great for Any Occasion: Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these pantry staples already!

Ingredients for Bottom Round Roast with Savory Gravy

For the Roast:

Ingredient	Quantity
Bottom round roast	3–4 pounds
Olive oil (divided)	4 tablespoons
Kosher salt	1 tablespoon
Black pepper	2 teaspoons
Onion powder	1 teaspoon
Dried parsley	1 teaspoon
Dried thyme leaves	1 teaspoon
Dried rosemary	1 teaspoon
Garlic powder	½ teaspoon
Fresh parsley (optional)	For garnish

For the Gravy:

Ingredient	Quantity
Sweet rice flour	2 tablespoons
Low-sodium beef stock/broth	2 cups
Worcestershire sauce	1 tablespoon
Salt and pepper	To taste

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Roast

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). This high heat will help create a golden, flavorful crust on the roast.
• Let the roast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even cooking.

Step 2: Season the Roast

The seasoning blend is key to giving the roast its incredible flavor.

1. In a small bowl, mix together:
   • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
   • 2 teaspoons black pepper
   • 1 teaspoon onion powder
   • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
   • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
   • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
   • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
2. Rub the roast with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes browning.
3. Generously coat the roast with the spice mixture, pressing the seasonings into the meat.

Step 3: Sear the Roast

Searing the roast locks in the juices and adds depth of flavor.

1. In a large, oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Place the seasoned roast into the hot pan and sear it for 2–3 minutes per side. You want a rich, golden crust to form on all sides.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Now it’s time to let the oven work its magic!

1. Transfer the skillet or roasting pan to the preheated oven.
2. Roast at 450°F for the first 15 minutes to seal in the juices.
3. Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting.
4. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
   • For medium-rare: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 135°F.
   • For medium: Cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
5. Total roasting time is about 1–1.5 hours, depending on the size of the roast.

Step 5: Rest the Roast

• Once the roast reaches your desired temperature, remove it from the oven.
• Tent the roast loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for 15–20 minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and flavorful result.

Step 6: Make the Savory Gravy

While the roast is resting, you can make the rich and savory gravy.

1. Place the skillet or roasting pan with the drippings over medium heat.
2. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of sweet rice flour into the pan and whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes. This creates a smooth roux that will thicken the gravy.
3. Gradually pour in 2 cups of beef stock or broth, whisking to combine.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
5. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a smoother texture, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

• Slice the roast against the grain for maximum tenderness.
• Serve with a generous drizzle of savory gravy and garnish with fresh parsley for a finishing touch.

Tips for the Perfect Bottom Round Roast

• Use a Meat Thermometer: A thermometer ensures you cook the roast to the perfect temperature without overcooking it.
• Don’t Skip the Searing Step: Searing the roast locks in juices and adds a beautiful crust.
• Rest the Meat: Allowing the roast to rest keeps it juicy and tender.
• Make Ahead: You can season the roast a day in advance for even deeper flavor.
• Serve with Sides: Pair the roast with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttery rolls for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a general breakdown of the nutritional value per serving (4 oz roast with gravy):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320 kcal
Protein	34g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	15g
Sodium	400mg

Note: Actual values may vary based on portion sizes and ingredient brands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is bottom round roast best used for?
Bottom round roast is perfect for roasting, braising, or slow cooking because it becomes tender when cooked properly.

2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently to maintain its tenderness.

3. Can I freeze the cooked roast?
Yes! Wrap the roast tightly in plastic wrap, place it in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

4. Can I use regular flour instead of sweet rice flour for the gravy?
Absolutely. You can substitute all-purpose flour for the sweet rice flour in equal amounts.

5. What if I don’t have fresh herbs for garnish?
You can skip the garnish or use dried parsley for a similar effect.

6. How do I know when the roast is done?
Use a meat thermometer and follow the temperature guidelines: 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium.

Final Thoughts

This Perfectly Tender Bottom Round Roast with Savory Gravy proves that you don’t need an expensive cut of meat to make an impressive, mouthwatering meal. With its flavorful seasoning, tender texture, and silky gravy, it’s the perfect centerpiece for any dinner table.

Now that you have all the tools to master this recipe, it’s time to gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and create a meal that’s sure to wow your family and friends. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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