Craving that juicy, tender roast beef you get at Arby's, but without the drive-thru line and the hefty price tag? Then you've come to the right place! This recipe delivers the same mouthwatering flavor and satisfying texture, all from the comfort of your own kitchen. It’s surprisingly easy, making it a perfect quick dinner idea for busy weeknights, or a show-stopping dish for a casual weekend gathering. Get ready to experience homemade happiness with this delicious and easy roast beef recipe.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs beef eye of round roast (or a similar lean cut)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Roast: Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels. This helps it sear properly.
- Create the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, olive oil, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Beef: Place the roast in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the roast, ensuring it's fully coated. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Sear the Roast: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Remove the roast from the marinade and discard the marinade. Sear the roast in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich, flavorful crust.
- Roast in the Oven: Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven. Roast for approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes, or until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part registers 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare, or 145°F (63°C) for medium. Cooking time will depend on the size and thickness of your roast.
- Rest the Roast: Once cooked, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the roast beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve on hoagie rolls with your favorite toppings, like cheese, horseradish sauce, and caramelized onions – just like your favorite Arby's sandwich, but better!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Roast Beef:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the roast, make sure it has enough space in the pan to brown properly. If necessary, sear in batches.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure your roast is cooked to your desired level of doneness. Avoid overcooking, which can result in dry meat.
- Let it rest: Resist the urge to slice the roast immediately after cooking. Allowing it to rest is essential for a juicy and tender result.
Variations:
- Add some spice: For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
- Herb variations: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme.
- Garlic lovers: Add extra garlic cloves to the marinade for a stronger garlic flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 250-300 (depending on serving size and toppings)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low (depending on toppings)
This recipe is a delicious and healthy meal option, perfect for a satisfying and easy weeknight dinner. The best part? You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to recreate that Arby's flavor at home. Enjoy!