Roast Beef with Horseradish Recipe

Introduction

Roast Beef with Horseradish is a timeless classic that’s perfect for any special occasion, holiday dinner, or weekend meal. The tender, juicy roast beef paired with the spicy, zesty horseradish sauce creates a balance of flavors that is both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re preparing it for a family gathering, a celebratory feast, or simply a delicious Sunday dinner, Roast Beef with Horseradish is sure to be a hit.

This recipe will guide you through every step of preparing a perfect roast beef, from choosing the right cut of meat to preparing the flavorful horseradish sauce that brings the dish to life. The combination of perfectly roasted beef and the bold, tangy kick from the horseradish makes for a memorable meal every time.

Why You’ll Love Roast Beef with Horseradish

• Rich, Savory Flavor: The roast beef is beautifully seasoned to enhance its natural beef flavor. The horseradish sauce adds a sharp, spicy contrast that elevates the dish and provides an extra layer of flavor.
• Tender and Juicy Meat: By slow-roasting the beef, the result is a tender and juicy roast that is perfectly cooked throughout with a nice crust on the outside.
• Easy to Prepare: While it sounds sophisticated, Roast Beef with Horseradish is relatively easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll have a beautiful roast ready for the table.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a special celebration, or a casual weeknight meal, this roast beef pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, making it perfect for any occasion.
• A Classic Combination: The pairing of roast beef and horseradish has been a beloved combination for generations. It’s a classic dish that never goes out of style.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
• Preparation Time: 10-15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
• Servings: 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 350-450 calories per serving, depending on portion size and ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 350-450 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 4-8g
• Protein: 40-45g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Ingredients

For the Roast Beef:

• 3 to 4-pound beef roast (such as ribeye, sirloin, or top round)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional, for added flavor)
• 1 cup beef broth (for roasting)

For the Horseradish Sauce:

• ½ cup prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup sour cream or crème fraîche
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chives, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Roast Beef

Start by preparing the beef roast. Trim any excess fat from the roast, leaving a small layer of fat for flavor. This fat will render down during cooking and help keep the roast juicy and tender.

Season the roast generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Rub these seasonings into the meat on all sides. If you’re using fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary, chop them finely and sprinkle them over the roast. Alternatively, you can use dried herbs, which will still provide great flavor.

If you want to add a little extra flavor, rub the roast with Dijon mustard before seasoning it. The mustard adds a subtle tang and helps the seasoning adhere to the meat.

2. Preheat the Oven and Sear the Roast

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). While the oven heats, heat a large ovenproof skillet or roasting pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to get hot.

Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned roast to the skillet. Sear the roast on all sides until it is deeply browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Searing helps to lock in the juices and adds a flavorful crust to the roast.

3. Roast the Beef

After searing the roast, place the skillet or roasting pan in the preheated oven. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Roast the beef for about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your preferred level of doneness. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C).

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, as this is the most accurate way to ensure the roast is cooked to your liking. Remember that the roast will continue to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so it’s okay to take it out a few degrees before it reaches the desired temperature.

During roasting, you can add 1 cup of beef broth to the bottom of the pan to keep the roast moist and add extra flavor. Baste the roast occasionally with the pan juices to enhance the flavor and keep the meat juicy.

4. Rest the Roast

Once the roast reaches the desired internal temperature, remove it from the oven and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes. Resting the roast is important, as it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring the meat remains tender and juicy.

5. Prepare the Horseradish Sauce

While the roast is resting, prepare the horseradish sauce. In a medium bowl, combine the prepared horseradish, sour cream, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth. Taste the sauce and add salt and pepper to taste.

If you prefer a milder horseradish sauce, use a smaller amount of horseradish. If you like a spicier kick, add more horseradish until you reach your desired level of heat. For an extra touch, garnish the sauce with freshly chopped chives for a pop of color and freshness.

6. Slice and Serve the Roast Beef

After the roast has rested, slice it thinly against the grain. This helps to ensure that the slices are tender. Arrange the sliced roast beef on a platter and serve with the horseradish sauce on the side.

7. Optional: Make a Gravy

If you want to make a gravy, use the pan drippings left in the roasting pan. Place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat. Add 1-2 tablespoons of flour to the drippings and whisk to create a roux. Gradually add more beef broth, stirring constantly, until the gravy reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.

Serve the gravy alongside the roast beef for an added richness.

Tips for Perfect Roast Beef with Horseradish

• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer is essential to ensure that your roast is cooked to the perfect level of doneness. Check the temperature in the thickest part of the roast to avoid overcooking.
• Rest the Roast: Always let the roast rest after cooking. This step is key to achieving tender, juicy meat that’s easy to carve.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When searing the roast, make sure there is enough space in the pan for the meat to brown evenly. Overcrowding the pan can result in steaming rather than searing.
• Customize the Horseradish Sauce: The horseradish sauce can be adjusted to your taste. Add more sour cream for a creamier texture or more horseradish for a spicier kick. You can also add fresh herbs or a touch of vinegar for extra depth of flavor.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the horseradish sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together, making it even more flavorful.
• Rest Before Slicing: Letting the roast rest before slicing ensures that the juices redistribute, making the meat more flavorful and tender.

Variations of Roast Beef with Horseradish

• Roast Beef with Garlic and Herbs: Add roasted garlic and fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme to the seasoning mix for added flavor.
• Smoked Roast Beef: For a smoky twist, cook the roast beef on a grill or smoker instead of roasting it in the oven. This method imparts a delicious smoky flavor to the beef.
• Roast Beef with Mustard Sauce: If you prefer a milder sauce, replace the horseradish with Dijon mustard for a more subtle tang.
• Roast Beef Sandwiches: Slice the leftover roast beef thinly and use it for sandwiches with horseradish sauce, arugula, and a slice of cheddar cheese for a tasty lunch.

Storage and Shelf Life

Roast Beef with Horseradish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for later. Store the leftover roast beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the beef in a covered pan with a splash of beef broth to prevent it from drying out.

The horseradish sauce can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If it thickens too much, you can thin it out with a little sour cream or a splash of lemon juice.

For longer storage, you can freeze leftover roast beef. Slice the beef and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. The roast beef can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the beef in the refrigerator overnight and gently warm it in the oven or on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Roast Beef with Horseradish

Roast Beef with Horseradish pairs wonderfully with a variety of classic sides:

• Roasted Potatoes: Crispy, golden roasted potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to the rich roast beef.
• Yorkshire Pudding: A traditional British side, Yorkshire pudding is light and airy, making it a perfect complement to roast beef and gravy.
• Creamed Spinach: The richness of creamed spinach balances the bold flavors of the roast beef and horseradish.
• Green Beans Almondine: Crisp green beans tossed with toasted almonds offer a light and crunchy contrast to the tender roast beef.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are always a classic side dish to serve with roast beef, especially when paired with the savory horseradish sauce.

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Conclusion

Roast Beef with Horseradish is a timeless dish that combines the best of both flavor and tradition. The juicy, tender roast beef pairs perfectly with the bold, tangy horseradish sauce, creating a memorable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for a special holiday dinner, a family gathering, or a casual weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress. Follow the simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious roast beef with horseradish that everyone will love. Enjoy!