Name: Roast Beef with Au Jus
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 105 min
Ingredients: 3-4 pounds beef roast (ribeye or sirloin); 2 tablespoons olive oil; to taste salt; to taste black pepper (freshly ground); 2 cups beef broth; 1 onion (quartered); 3 cloves garlic (smashed); 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 2 sprigs fresh thyme

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Roast Beef with Au Jus is the ultimate centerpiece for any special meal or Sunday dinner. This dish brings together a tender, juicy beef roast with a deeply flavorful, savory au jus that perfectly complements every slice. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this classic recipe is sure to impress. Using a 3-4 pound beef roast such as ribeye or sirloin, along with fresh herbs and simple ingredients, you’ll create a meal that feels elegant yet approachable. Let’s dive into what makes this roast beef so irresistible and how to bring it to your table.

Why It Deserves a Spot

Roast Beef with Au Jus stands out because of its simplicity and depth of flavor. The au jus—a light beef broth sauce made from the drippings—enhances the natural richness of the roast without overpowering it. This dish offers a perfect balance of texture and taste; the beef is tender and juicy inside with a beautifully caramelized crust outside. It’s versatile enough to be dressed up for holidays or kept casual for weeknight dinners. Plus, the homemade au jus adds moisture and a burst of savory goodness that store-bought sauces just can’t match.

Pair it with creamy sides like Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin or a crisp Fresh Herb Potato Salad to complete the meal and impress every palate at your table.

What You’ll Need

3-4 pounds beef roast (ribeye or sirloin work beautifully)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
2 cups beef broth
1 onion, quartered
3 cloves garlic, smashed
2 sprigs fresh rosemary
2 sprigs fresh thyme

Equipment Breakdown

Roasting pan – to cook the beef and catch drippings for the au jus
Meat thermometer – ensures perfectly cooked roast every time
Sharp carving knife – for clean, precise slices
Saucepan – to make the au jus
Cutting board – for resting and slicing the roast

Build Roast Beef with Au Jus Step by Step

Step 1: Prep the Roast

Start by patting your beef roast dry with paper towels. This helps the olive oil and seasoning stick better and promotes a crisp crust. Rub the roast all over with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then generously season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy here—the seasoning is key to flavor.

Step 2: Roast the Beef

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the beef roast on a rack inside your roasting pan to allow air circulation and even cooking. Roast at high heat for about 15 minutes to develop a beautiful brown crust. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare (about 1 to 1.5 hours depending on size). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Step 3: Rest the Roast

Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is juicy and tender.

Step 4: Make the Au Jus

While the beef rests, pour the drippings from the roasting pan into a saucepan. Add 2 cups of beef broth, quartered onion, smashed garlic cloves, rosemary, and thyme. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, scraping the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits. Let it reduce by about one-third, concentrating the flavors. Strain the liquid to remove solids and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Carve and Serve

Carve the roast beef thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness. Serve with warm au jus on the side for dipping or drizzling. This simple yet elegant presentation lets the rich flavors shine.

Make It Year-Round

Perfect for holiday feasts or special occasions
Great for Sunday family dinners that bring everyone together
Ideal for meal prep—roast once and enjoy leftovers throughout the week
Adaptable to different seasonings and herbs depending on the season

Flavor Logic

The beauty of Roast Beef with Au Jus lies in the natural flavors of the beef enhanced by herbs and aromatics. The olive oil helps develop that mouthwatering crust while locking in moisture. Rosemary and thyme infuse the beef and au jus with their earthy, piney notes, perfectly complementing the rich broth base. Garlic and onion add a subtle sweetness and depth that rounds out the sauce.

The au jus is essentially a concentrated beef broth brightened by fresh herbs.
Using fresh herbs rather than dried gives a fresher, more vibrant flavor.
Allowing the roast to rest is crucial for juicy slices.
Simple seasoning keeps the beef’s natural flavor as the star.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftover roast beef and au jus store beautifully. To refrigerate, place the beef slices in an airtight container and keep the au jus in a separate sealed jar or container. Both will keep well for up to 4 days.

Freeze beef slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
Freeze au jus in freezer-safe containers or bags to preserve flavor.
Reheat beef gently in the oven or microwave with a splash of au jus to prevent drying.
Warm au jus on the stovetop before serving.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other cuts of beef besides ribeye or sirloin?

Absolutely! Other tender cuts like eye of round or top round can work well, though they may need slightly different cooking times. Ribeye and sirloin are favored for their marbling and tenderness.

How do I know when the roast is done?

The best way is to use a meat thermometer. Aim for 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, or adjust based on your preferred doneness. Remember the roast will continue cooking slightly while resting.

Can I make the au jus ahead of time?

Yes, the au jus can be made while the roast is resting or even a day ahead. Just reheat gently before serving. This makes dinner prep easier and allows flavors to meld.

What’s the best way to serve this roast beef?

Serve sliced roast beef with a drizzle of warm au jus alongside your favorite sides. It pairs perfectly with creamy potatoes, fresh salads, or roasted vegetables for a hearty, balanced meal.

Reader Favorites

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Gratin – A rich, creamy side perfect with roast beef
Fresh Herb Potato Salad – Light and refreshing complement to a savory roast

Hungry for More?

If you love the comforting flavors of roast beef, try experimenting with different herbs like sage or oregano in your au jus. You can also add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the sauce for complexity. Don’t forget to pair your roast with some crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop of au jus. Whether for a family celebration or a cozy dinner, this Roast Beef with Au Jus recipe delivers unforgettable flavor and warmth every time.

Roast Beef with Au Jus is a timeless classic that ticks all the boxes—simple ingredients, easy technique, and show-stopping results. Once you master this recipe, it will become your go-to for any occasion where you want to serve something special, hearty, and full of flavor. Enjoy every juicy slice and savor the rich, savory au jus that makes this dish shine!

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