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Roast Beef and Pan Gravy for Beginners – Juicy, Flavorful & Foolproof

This Roast Beef and Pan Gravy for Beginners is the ultimate guide to mastering a timeless comfort food. With simple steps and everyday ingredients, you’ll learn how to cook tender, juicy roast beef and make rich, savory pan gravy from scratch. Perfect for Sunday dinners, holiday gatherings, or cozy nights in, this beginner-friendly recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or Yorkshire pudding for a classic, satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Main Dish / Dinner
Cuisine American, British, Comfort Food
Servings 8
Calories 400 kcal

Equipment

  • Roasting pan with rack
  • Meat thermometer
  • Skillet or saucepan (for gravy)
  • Whisk and wooden spoon
  • Sharp carving knife
  • Cutting board
  • Tongs or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Roast Beef

  • 3½ lb top round beef roast
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp granulated garlic
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme

For the Pan Gravy

  • 2 tbsp butter (divided: 1 tbsp melted, 1 tbsp cold)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp sherry vinegar or wine vinegar
  • 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Dry Brine (Optional but Recommended): Rub beef with salt, pepper, and garlic. Place uncovered in the fridge for 8–24 hours.
  • Sear the Beef: Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Heat oil in a skillet and sear beef on all sides until browned.
  • Roast: Place beef on rack in roasting pan. Scatter onions, mushrooms, and thyme underneath. Roast until internal temp reaches 130°F for medium-rare (about 1½–2 hours).
  • Rest: Remove beef from oven and tent with foil. Let rest for 20–30 minutes.
  • Make the Gravy: Place roasting pan on stovetop. Add vinegar to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Stir in melted butter and flour to form a roux. Slowly whisk in broth. Simmer until thickened. Finish with cold butter, cayenne, and adjust seasoning.
  • Slice & Serve: Carve beef against the grain. Serve with warm pan gravy and your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Dry brining enhances flavor and tenderness — don’t skip it if you have time.
  • Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
  • Slice against the grain for tender results.
  • Make extra gravy — it’s great for leftovers, sandwiches, or mashed potatoes.
  • Gravy too thin? Simmer longer or add a touch more flour.
  • Gravy too thick? Thin with a splash of broth or water.
Keyword beef with gravy, beginner roast beef, Comfort Food, easy beef recipe, holiday roast, meat and gravy, oven roast, pan gravy, roast beef, Sunday dinner