18 Savory Roast Beef Recipes for Special Occasions

Carmen Eldridge

April 3, 2025

When it comes to special occasions, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly roasted piece of beef. The aroma of roasting meat wafting through the air, the tender and juicy texture, and the rich flavors that come together to create a truly unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, a birthday celebration, or just want to impress your family and friends, roast beef is always a winner.

To help you elevate your roast beef game, we’ve gathered 18 mouth-watering recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic herb-crusted roasts to bold and adventurous flavors, there’s something for everyone in this collection. So, let’s get started and explore the wonderful world of savory roast beef!

Classic Herb-Crusted Roast Beef

Classic Herb-Crusted Roast Beef
Elevate your roast beef game with this timeless recipe that combines tender meat, aromatic herbs, and a crispy crust.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound prime roast beef (such as ribeye or top round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the roast beef, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the roast beef, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.

Cooking Time:

– 3-4 pounds: 60-80 minutes
– 5-6 pounds: 80-100 minutes

Garlic and Rosemary Roast Beef

Garlic and Rosemary Roast Beef
Elevate your roast beef game with this flavorful recipe that combines the savory flavors of garlic, rosemary, and beef.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound beef roast (such as prime rib or top round)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chopped rosemary.
3. Rub the garlic-rosemary mixture all over the beef roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the roast and place in a roasting pan.
6. Roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours depending on the size of the roast.

Slow Cooker Red Wine Roast Beef

Slow Cooker Red Wine Roast Beef
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this rich and flavorful slow cooker roast beef recipe, perfect for a cozy evening at home. This classic dish is infused with the bold flavors of red wine and herbs, making it a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound beef roast (such as prime rib or chuck)
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Place the roast in the slow cooker and pour in the red wine.
4. Add the garlic and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)

Horseradish-Crusted Roast Beef

Horseradish-Crusted Roast Beef
This recipe brings a bold and spicy twist to traditional roast beef, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals. The combination of tender beef, crispy crust, and tangy horseradish sauce is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, horseradish, brown sugar, and garlic powder.
3. Season the roast beef with salt and pepper on all sides.
4. Spread the horseradish mixture evenly over the roast beef, making sure to coat it completely.
5. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 1-2 hours, depending on the size of the roast

Mustard and Brown Sugar Glazed Roast Beef

Mustard and Brown Sugar Glazed Roast Beef
This sweet and tangy glaze elevates the classic roast beef to a whole new level, perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound roast beef
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, mustard, and garlic until smooth.
3. Rub the roast beef with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Brush the glaze all over the roast beef, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast beef rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Balsamic and Honey Roast Beef

Balsamic and Honey Roast Beef
Elevate your roast beef game with this sweet and tangy recipe that combines the richness of balsamic vinegar with the warmth of honey. The result is a tender, flavorful roast beef that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound beef roast (such as prime rib or top round)
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, garlic, and thyme.
3. Season the roast beef with salt and pepper.
4. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and brush the balsamic-honey mixture all over the surface.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Peppercorn-Crusted Roast Beef

Peppercorn-Crusted Roast Beef
Elevate your roast beef game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring a crust of peppery goodness that adds depth and excitement to this classic dish.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound roast beef (such as ribeye or top round)
– 2 tablespoons black pepper
– 1 tablespoon coriander
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together black pepper, coriander, brown sugar, and garlic.
3. Rub the peppercorn mixture all over the roast beef, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with kosher salt to taste.
5. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast beef for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until browned.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and roast for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes

Beer-Braised Roast Beef

Beer-Braised Roast Beef

Beer-Braised Roast Beef Recipe

Savor the rich flavors of slow-cooked roast beef, infused with the depths of a dark beer and a hint of spice.

  • 3-4 pound beef roast (such as chuck or round)
  • 1 cup dark beer (such as stout or porter)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
  2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika.
  3. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side.
  4. Add the dark beer, brown sugar, and any pan drippings to the pot. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  5. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the roast is tender and falls apart easily.

Cooking Time:

Allow at least 2 hours of slow cooking time for this recipe. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful the roast will become.

Smoked Paprika Roast Beef

Smoked Paprika Roast Beef
Smoked Paprika Roast Beef: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe

This recipe elevates the classic roast beef with the smoky, slightly sweet flavor of smoked paprika. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the roast beef, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Red Wine and Mushroom Roast Beef

Red Wine and Mushroom Roast Beef
This recipe combines the rich flavors of red wine and sautéed mushrooms to create a tender and savory roast beef dish. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday dinner.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound prime roast beef
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mushrooms and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and thyme to the skillet; cook for an additional minute.
4. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and rub with salt and pepper.
5. Pour the red wine mixture (mushrooms and liquid) over the roast beef, making sure it’s fully coated.
6. Roast the beef in the preheated oven for about 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours

Maple-Glazed Roast Beef with Root Vegetables

Maple-Glazed Roast Beef with Root Vegetables
This classic comfort food dish combines the tender juiciness of roast beef with the natural sweetness of maple syrup and the earthy flavors of root vegetables. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 lb prime roast beef (such as top round or rump)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized parsnips, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup and olive oil.
3. Season roast beef with salt and pepper.
4. Place the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and parsnips around the roast beef in a single layer.
5. Brush the maple glaze all over the roast beef and vegetables.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Spicy Coffee-Rubbed Roast Beef

Spicy Coffee-Rubbed Roast Beef
Elevate your roast beef game with a bold and aromatic spice blend featuring the richness of coffee. This unique rub infuses the beef with deep flavors, perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound roast beef (such as prime rib or top round)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons ground coffee
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, coffee, chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the roast beef, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast beef rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Garlic Butter Roast Beef with Thyme

Garlic Butter Roast Beef with Thyme
Elevate your roast beef game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the savory goodness of thyme. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound roast beef (such as prime rib or top round)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and thyme until well combined.
3. Season the roast beef with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Rub the garlic-thyme butter all over the roast beef, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan or Dutch oven and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
7. Let the roast beef rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Asian-Inspired Soy and Ginger Roast Beef

Asian-Inspired Soy and Ginger Roast Beef
Elevate your roast beef game with the bold flavors of Asia! This recipe combines the rich taste of soy sauce, the spicy kick of ginger, and the tender texture of slow-cooked roast beef.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound roast beef (such as prime rib or top round)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and brown sugar.
3. Rub the mixture all over the roast beef, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and drizzle with sesame oil.
5. Roast for 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast beef rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours

BBQ Roast Beef with Bourbon Glaze

BBQ Roast Beef with Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your roast beef game with this rich and tangy bourbon-infused glaze, perfectly caramelized to complement the tender beef.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 pound prime roast beef (such as prime rib or top round)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the roast beef with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
4. Place the roast beef in a roasting pan and brush the bourbon glaze all over it.
5. Roast the beef for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Herb-Marinated Roast Beef with Red Potatoes

Herb-Marinated Roast Beef with Red Potatoes
Experience the rich flavors of slow-cooked roast beef paired with tender red potatoes, all tied together with a fragrant herb marinade. This hearty dish is perfect for a special occasion or everyday dinner.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound beef roast (such as top round or rump)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large red potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Rub the marinade all over the beef roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet.
6. Roast the beef in the oven for 2-1/2 hours or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
7. Toss the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast for 45 minutes to 1 hour or until tender.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Roast Beef with Creamy Horseradish Sauce

Roast Beef with Creamy Horseradish Sauce
This classic combination of tender roast beef and tangy horseradish sauce is a perfect centerpiece for any special occasion or everyday dinner. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound beef roast (such as prime rib or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 2-3 minutes on each side, then transfer to a roasting pan.
4. Roast the beef at 325°F (165°C) for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the roast is cooking, combine heavy cream and horseradish in a small bowl.
6. Once the roast is cooked, let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing against the grain.
7. Serve with the creamy horseradish sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Rosemary and Garlic Roast Beef with Carrots

Rosemary and Garlic Roast Beef with Carrots
Rosemary and Garlic Roast Beef with Carrots Recipe Summary:
This classic roast beef recipe combines the pungency of garlic, the herbaceousness of rosemary, and the natural sweetness of carrots for a deliciously flavorful main course.

Ingredients:

– 3-pound beef roast (such as prime rib or round)
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-5 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped

Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and olive oil.
3. Rub the garlic-oil mixture all over the beef roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Sprinkle the chopped rosemary over the beef, pressing it gently into the meat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the beef in a roasting pan, leaving some space around it for air circulation.
7. Toss the chopped carrots around the beef, drizzling them with any remaining garlic-oil mixture.
8. Roast the beef and carrots in the preheated oven for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time:
Approximately 2-3 hours

Summary

Get ready to elevate your special occasions with these 18 mouthwatering roast beef recipes! From classic herb-crusted roasts to bold flavor combinations like beer-braised and spicy coffee-rubbed, there’s something for every taste. Try garlic and rosemary roasted perfection or slow-cooked red wine roast beef for a hearty, comforting dish. And for the adventurous, try mustard and brown sugar glazed, peppercorn-crusted, or balsamic and honey-roasted masterpieces. Whatever your occasion, these savory roast beef recipes are sure to impress!

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