Tender Bottom Round Roast Recipe, Easy 1 Pot Beef Dinner

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4.7 from 46 votes

Introducing the Ultimate Bottom Round Roast Recipe – The Best Way to Achieve a Mouthwatering Tender and Juicy Roast! Print Your Recipe Card below;)

sliced tender bottom round roast on cutting board with text

Bottom Round Roast

If you’re on the hunt for the perfectly tender bottom round roast recipe, I’ve got you! This easy recipe combines the best cooking methods to transform a tough cut of meat into a savory and succulent centerpiece for your family dinners or special occasions!

Whether you call it bottom round roast, rump roast, or lean beef roast, this cut can shine when cooked this way!

Slow Cooking

The secret to a tender bottom round roast lies in the slow cooking process. This recipe takes advantage of the low and slow approach to break down the connective tissues and collagen, turning an initially tough cut into a melt-in-your-mouth roast. This method works equally well for chuck roast, making it a great option for those looking for a good value.

Prepping for Success

Begin by letting your roast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This ensures even cooking and helps the roast reach the desired internal temperature throughout. While the roast is resting, take the opportunity to prepare a flavorful dry rub or herb butter using fresh herbs, garlic cloves, olive oil, and a touch of balsamic vinegar for that extra depth of flavor.

bottom round roast searing

Seared to Perfection

Start by searing the roast over medium-high heat, using a thin coat of oil such as olive oil. This step locks in the juices and adds a wonderful crust to the roast, enhancing its overall texture and taste.

Slow Roasting for Optimal Tenderness

After searing, place the roast in a Dutch oven or slow cooker pot for the main slow cooking process. This method is a wonderful way to infuse the roast with the flavors of your chosen herbs, seasonings, and a touch of beef broth or even red wine.

Cooking to Perfection

Let the roast cook at a low temperature, ensuring a steady and gentle cooking process. This helps the roast tenderize over time, as it becomes increasingly juicy and mouthwateringly delicious.

Resting

Once the roast reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest. Resting allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a tender and juicy roast.

fall apart tender roast beef on top of mashed potatoes with gravy and text

Flavorful Gravy

Don’t forget the wonderful sauce! The leftover cooking broth can be transformed into a rich and flavorful gravy, which pairs perfectly with your slices of roast and a side of mashed potatoes or even roast beef sandwiches.

Intrigued by this easy roast beef recipe? Check out the full instructions and helpful tips in the recipe card below. This method will undoubtedly make you a roast aficionado, impressing your family and friends with every perfectly cooked slice.

Ingredients

A savory and delicious bottom round roast recipe that combines searing, braising, and the use of herbs for a fall-apart tender result. This recipe is designed to be cooked in a Dutch oven pan.

Top Round Roast Ingredients

  • 3-4 pound (1.4-1.8 kg) bottom round roast
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, thinly sliced
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme (or use fresh thyme sprigs)
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (or use fresh rosemary sprigs)
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional, you can substitute with more beef broth)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2-3 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2-3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
instant read thermometer

For a Medium Well Bottom Round Roast

 If you like your roast medium with a bit of pink in the middle: roast to 135 and then tent it while it rests on your counter it will come to 145 degrees F.

For a Rare Bottom Round Roast

If you like your roast rare, roast to 125 then take out and tent with foil and it will come to 135 while it is resting on the counter.

Fall Apart Doneness

A bottom round roast will start to become tender and fall apart when it reaches an internal temperature of around 190°F to 205°F (88°C to 96°C). This is the temperature range at which the collagen and connective tissue in the meat break down, transforming the tough fibers into a more tender texture.

At these higher temperatures, the roast will begin to easily shred or pull apart with minimal effort. This level of tenderness is often desired for dishes like pulled beef or shredded beef sandwiches, where the meat is intended to be very soft and easily separated.

Keep in mind that cooking a bottom round roast to this level of tenderness may require longer cooking times, as the collagen breakdown is a gradual process. 

bottom round roast resting on cutting board before slicing

Resting

Once the roast is tender, carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven.

Transfer the roast to a cutting board and let the roast rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Slice & Serve Bottom Round Roast

While the roast is resting, strain the braising liquid to remove the solids and herbs.

Slice the roast into thin slices that are against the grain.

Bottom Round Roast sliced with gravy, herbs, and text

Make Gravy

This herb-braised bottom round roast is sure to be a delicious and comforting dish, perfect for fall or any time you’re looking for a satisfying meal.

Make a rich and flavorful gravy using the leftover cooking broth from the herb-braised bottom round roast. This gravy will add an extra layer of deliciousness to your roast slices and, mashed potatoes and vegetables.

Notes

1 – Allow the roast to come to room temperature before cooking. This ensures more even cooking throughout the roast.

2 – After cooking, allow the roast to rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

3 – Bottom round roast makes excellent leftovers. You can use the meat in sandwiches, wraps, or even as a topping for salads. Just reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

Tools

Dutch Oven – A Dutch oven pot is ideal for slow roasting and braising. Its heavy construction and tight-fitting lid create the perfect environment for achieving a tender roast.

Instant-Read Meat Thermometer – An instant-read meat thermometer is a must-have to accurately monitor the internal temperature of your roast. This tool ensures your roast reaches the desired level of doneness without overcooking.

Cutting Board – A sturdy cutting board provides a safe and clean surface for slicing your cooked roast into thin, mouthwatering slices.

Chef’s Knife – A sharp chef’s knife is essential for precise and effortless slicing, allowing you to create those perfect thin slices of roast.

Tongs – Tongs come in handy for searing the roast, flipping it, and transferring it between the stovetop and the Dutch oven.

Oven Mitts – Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves protect your hands when handling the hot Dutch oven during the cooking process.

Whisk or Wooden Spoon – You’ll need a whisk or a wooden spoon for stirring the cooking broth and ensuring a smooth gravy.

Saucepan – A saucepan is useful for making the gravy from the leftover cooking broth. It helps prevent lumps and ensures even heat distribution.

Measuring Cups and Spoons – Accurate measurements are crucial for a successful recipe, so have your measuring cups and spoons ready.

Aluminum Foil – Aluminum foil is useful for covering the roast while it rests, allowing the juices to redistribute evenly.

Serving Platter – A serving platter or dish is perfect for presenting your beautifully cooked bottom round roast slices.

Fine-Mesh Strainer – A fine-mesh strainer is essential for straining the cooking broth when making the gravy.

Cooking Time

Desired DonenessInternal TemperatureApproximate Cooking Time (300°F; 3-4 lb roast)
Rare115°F (46°C)1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 45 minutes
Medium-rare130°F (54°C)2 hours – 2 hours 15 minutes
Medium135°F (57°C)2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 45 minutes
Medium-well145°F (63°C)2 hours 45 minutes – 3 hours
Well done160°F (71°C)3 hours – 3 hours 30 minutes

At 300 degrees Fahrenheit, a 3-4 pound roast beef should take approximately 2 to 2 and a half hours to reach an internal temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit, which is medium-rare. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual cooking time can vary depending on several factors, such as:

  • The cut of beef: Different cuts have different fat contents and thicknesses, which can affect cooking time. For example, a chuck roast will take longer to cook than a sirloin roast.
  • The shape of the roast: Roasts with more surface area will cook faster than those with less surface area.
  • The accuracy of your oven: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and that the thermostat is accurate.
  • Whether you use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure that your roast is cooked to the desired doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, avoiding bones.

Recipe Card

If you try this recipe and love it, I’d love if you give it 5 stars and let me know how it turned out in the comments or review! Tag me on Instagram @farmhouse_harvest with your delicious creation!

the bottom round roast recipe is cooked and cut

Bottom Round Roast – Tender & Savory!

Tender and savory bottom round roast seasoned with herbs, seared to keep in moisture, and oven roasted, or braised, to perfection!
4.72 from 46 votes
Print Pin Rate
Course: Meats
Cuisine: Roast Beef
Keyword: bottom round roast
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Additional Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Calories: 102kcal
Author: Juliea Huffaker

Ingredients

  • 3-4 pound 1.4-1.8 kg bottom round roast
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion thinly sliced
  • 3-4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme or use fresh thyme sprigs
  • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary or use fresh rosemary sprigs
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine optional, you can substitute with more beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2-3 carrots peeled and cut into chunks
  • 2-3 celery stalks cut into chunks

Instructions

  • Preheat and Season – Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
  • Pat the bottom round roast dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  • Searing – In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  • Sear the seasoned roast on all sides until 3-4 minutes till nicely browned. Remove the roast from the Dutch oven and set it aside.
  • Aromatics and Braising Liquid – In the same Dutch oven, add the sliced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften and become fragrant.
  • Add the dried thyme and rosemary to the onion and garlic mixture. If you’re using fresh herbs, you can add them later.
  • Deglaze, Add Liquids – Pour in the red wine and beef broth, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the Dutch oven. This adds flavor to the braising liquid.
  • Add the bay leaves to the liquid.
  • Return Roast and Add Vegetables – Place the seared roast back into the Dutch oven, nestled among the aromatic mixture.
  • Add the carrot and celery chunks around the roast.
  • If using fresh herbs, tuck the sprigs of thyme and rosemary around the roast and vegetables.
  • Braising = Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
  • Rare: If you like your roast rare, roast to 125 degrees F internal temperature (about 2 hours) then take out and tent with foil and it will come to 135 while it is resting on the counter.
  • Medium: If you like your roast medium with a bit of pink in the middle: roast to 135 degrees F (about 2 hours abd 15 minutes) and then tent it while it rests on your counter it will come to 145 degrees F.
  • For fall apart roast: let the roast braise for about 3 – 3.5 hours, or until the meat is fall-apart tender. You can check the tenderness by inserting a fork; it should easily shred.
  • FINISHING – Once the roast is tender, carefully remove the Dutch oven from the oven.
  • Transfer the roast to a cutting board and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g | Calories: 102kcal | Carbohydrates: 7g | Protein: 1g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Sodium: 231mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 2g

Cooking Time

Desired DonenessInternal TemperatureApproximate Cooking Time (300°F; 3-4 lb roast)
Rare115°F (46°C)1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 45 minutes
Medium-rare130°F (54°C)2 hours – 2 hours 15 minutes
Medium135°F (57°C)2 hours 15 minutes – 2 hours 45 minutes
Medium-well145°F (63°C)2 hours 45 minutes – 3 hours
Well done160°F (71°C)3 hours – 3 hours 30 minutes

At 300 degrees Fahrenheit, a 3-4 pound roast beef should take approximately 2 to 2 and a half hours to reach an internal temperature of 125 degrees Fahrenheit, which is medium-rare. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual cooking time can vary depending on several factors, such as:

  • The cut of beef: Different cuts have different fat contents and thicknesses, which can affect cooking time. For example, a chuck roast will take longer to cook than a sirloin roast.
  • The shape of the roast: Roasts with more surface area will cook faster than those with less surface area.
  • The accuracy of your oven: Make sure your oven is preheated to the correct temperature and that the thermostat is accurate.
  • Whether you use a meat thermometer: The best way to ensure that your roast is cooked to the desired doneness is to use a meat thermometer. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, avoiding bones.

Let me know what you think!

Share your cooking tips and feedback in the comments below.

Did you add any twists to these recipes? I’d love to hear!

Roast Recipes

Prime Rib Roast

Sirloin Tip Roast

Rump Roast Recipe

Pot Roast Dinner

Top Round Roast Recipe

Oven roasted Tip Tip

Bottom Round Roast Sources

National Cattlemen’s Beef Association

Culinary Institute of America

13 comments

  • 5 stars
    I thought I followed the recipe as written, set probe to 125 for rare, was cooked to med rare and beef was tough. The Gravy was delish. I will try again, maybe use a Chuck roast

  • Juliea Huffaker

    Good Morning Bea! If you want tender fall apart bottom round roast. Cook it with the broth and all the ingredients in a covered baking dish (like a dutch oven). The dutch oven holds the moisture in, so the roast does not dry out. Check the temperature when braising a roast to fall apart done. But you will roast it longer for it will be about 4-5 hours to reach the fall apart doneness. Then thicken the left over juices in the dutch oven to make gravy from scratch to serve your roast with!

  • Juliea Huffaker

    Hi Pam! Yes you can cook this is a slow cooker after searing! Just watch the temperature and cook to the doneness level you are looking for;) Thank for asking!

  • Juliea Huffaker

    Year Darlean.. So glad to hear that you all enjoyed this Tender Bottom Round Roast Recipe twice now! This is one of our family favorites too;)

  • Juliea Huffaker

    Hi Sarah! I wouldn’t change the recipe, you could add a bit more of the seasonings… Just watch your meat thermometer to make sure you cook it to the doneness you like. Thanks for asking!

  • Juliea Huffaker

    Thank you Sheryl… So glad you enjoyed it!

  • Darling

    5 stars
    Def try!

  • Wow, thank you for sharing all these tips to cook this dish to perfection. I love the idea of using the leftovers for the gravy.

  • I just got a bottom roast on sale today! Looks like I know what recipe I’m going to try! Looks delicious, thanks for sharing!

    • juliea

      Hi Magen… Glad you got a good sale! Thanks for the comment… Hope you enjoy!

  • Beef roast is my husband’s favorite meal. We both thank you for the recipe – can’t wait to try it!

  • Elizabeth

    Looks delicious! I’m going to follow your instructions next time I make a roast!

  • Although I don’t eat beef, it looks really good. I am sure my husband would love it. Maybe I could so this with a pork roast?

4.72 from 46 votes (44 ratings without comment)

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