This savory Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef is a delightful combination of tender beef infused with the tangy sweetness of cranberries and the rich depth of balsamic vinegar. Perfect for special occasions or an elevated family dinner, it’s a dish that promises to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this recipe balances the natural tartness of cranberries with the robust flavors of beef and balsamic vinegar. The honey adds a subtle sweetness, while fresh rosemary brings a fragrant, earthy note. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and creates a stunning presentation for any gathering.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 lb beef roast (sirloin, chuck, or your preferred cut)
1 cup fresh cranberries (or 1/2 cup cranberry sauce)
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup beef broth
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small saucepan, combine cranberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, allowing the cranberries to burst and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir in the beef broth and cook for 2-3 more minutes. Remove from heat.
Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef roast with salt and pepper. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Pour the cranberry-balsamic sauce over the roast, ensuring it’s well-coated. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting the roast with the sauce every 30 minutes. Cook until the roast reaches your desired level of doneness (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve slices of roast beef drizzled with the cranberry balsamic sauce.
Servings and Timing
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours
Servings: 6 servings
Variations
Meat Choice: Swap the beef roast for pork tenderloin or chicken for a twist on the classic recipe.
Cranberry Substitutes: If fresh cranberries aren’t available, cranberry sauce or dried cranberries rehydrated in warm water can work.
Herb Options: Experiment with thyme or sage instead of rosemary for a different flavor profile.
Spiced Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or allspice to the sauce for a warm, festive touch.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover roast beef and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat slices in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth or sauce to keep the meat moist. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the beef.
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FAQs
How do I know when the roast is done?
I recommend using a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Aim for 135°F for medium-rare or 145°F for medium doneness.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Sear the roast first, then transfer it to a slow cooker. Pour the sauce over it and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Can I freeze leftover roast beef?
Absolutely. Slice the beef and freeze it with the sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the sauce up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before pouring over the roast.
What sides pair well with this dish?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this roast beautifully. I also like serving it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
Conclusion
This Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef is an impressive yet approachable dish that delivers a perfect blend of savory and sweet flavors. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or looking for a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is sure to delight everyone at the table.
📖 Recipe:
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Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Tender and flavorful, this Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef combines the tangy sweetness of cranberries with the rich depth of balsamic vinegar, creating an unforgettable dish perfect for holidays or an elevated family dinner.
Ingredients
3 lb beef roast (sirloin, chuck, or your preferred cut)
1 cup fresh cranberries (or 1/2 cup cranberry sauce)
1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup beef broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a saucepan, simmer cranberries, balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper over medium heat until cranberries burst and sauce thickens slightly (5-7 minutes). Add beef broth and cook for 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Season beef roast with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned (4-5 minutes per side).
- Pour cranberry-balsamic sauce over the roast. Transfer skillet to the oven.
- Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with sauce every 30 minutes, until desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
- Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with cranberry-balsamic sauce.
Notes
Variations: Substitute beef with pork tenderloin or chicken. Use dried or canned cranberries if fresh are unavailable.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat with sauce in a skillet over low heat for best results.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including searing and roasting)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 350 kcal
