Cranberry Dijon Beef Roast 🥩✨
This Cranberry Dijon Beef Roast is a flavorful and festive dish that combines tender beef with a sweet and tangy sauce. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or family dinners!
Ingredients
For the Beef:
- 3 to 4 lbs beef chuck roast or sirloin tip roast
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Cranberry Dijon Sauce:
- 1 cup cranberry sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup beef broth (or red wine)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Fresh rosemary or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Prepare the Beef:
Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3️⃣ Make the Cranberry Dijon Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the cranberry sauce, Dijon mustard, beef broth, brown sugar (if using), and balsamic vinegar. Mix well.
4️⃣ Roast the Beef:
Once the beef is browned, pour the cranberry Dijon sauce over the beef in the skillet. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches your preferred doneness (135°F/57°C for medium-rare, 145°F/63°C for medium). Baste the beef with the sauce halfway through the cooking time.
5️⃣ Rest and Serve:
Remove the beef from the oven and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. Serve the sliced beef with the cranberry Dijon sauce drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips:
- Pair this roast with sides like roasted root vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
- Leftovers are perfect for sandwiches or grain bowls!
⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours | Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6-8
FAQs About Cranberry Dijon Beef Roast
1. Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes! While beef chuck roast or sirloin tip roast works best for this recipe, you can also use a top round roast or brisket. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as leaner cuts may cook faster and require careful monitoring to avoid overcooking.
2. What can I substitute for cranberry sauce?
If cranberry sauce is unavailable, you can use red currant jelly, lingonberry jam, or a mixture of pomegranate juice and a touch of sugar for a similar sweet and tangy flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the beef roast a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator with the sauce in an airtight container. Reheat it gently in the oven or on the stovetop, covered, to retain moisture.
4. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe adapts well to a slow cooker. After searing the beef, place it in the slow cooker, pour the cranberry Dijon sauce over it, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until tender.
5. What internal temperature should I aim for?
- Medium-Rare: 135°F (57°C)
- Medium: 145°F (63°C)
-
Medium-Well: 150-155°F (66-68°C)
Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Remember that the roast will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
6. Can I make this without alcohol or wine?
Yes! Use beef broth or even apple cider as a substitute for red wine in the sauce.
7. What are some good side dishes to pair with this roast?
This roast pairs beautifully with:
- Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes.
- Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic mashed cauliflower.
- Fresh green beans or a crisp salad.
8. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven to keep the meat tender.
9. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Slice the beef and store it with the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
10. How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
If the sauce is too thin, transfer it to a saucepan and simmer on low heat until it reduces and thickens. Alternatively, you can mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 2 teaspoons of water, add it to the sauce, and simmer until thickened.