Short description

Garlic Herb Roast Beef is a tender, juicy, and flavorful centerpiece perfect for holidays, Sunday dinners, or special gatherings. Coated in a fragrant garlic and herb crust, this roast is slow-cooked to perfection, delivering rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is elegant yet simple, requiring just a handful of fresh herbs, garlic, and a good cut of beef. The result is a restaurant-worthy roast that fills your home with incredible aromas. It pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or Yorkshire pudding, making it an all-around showstopper.

Garlic Herb Roast Beef

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3–4 lb beef roast (top round, ribeye, or sirloin)
3 tbsp olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp onion powder

Directions

Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Pat the beef roast dry with paper towels.
In a small bowl, combine garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper to form a paste.
Rub the garlic herb mixture generously over the entire roast.
Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan.
Roast at 450°F (230°C) for 15 minutes to sear the outside.
Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches desired doneness:
- 125°F (52°C) for rare
- 135°F (57°C) for medium rare
- 145°F (63°C) for medium
Remove from the oven, tent loosely with foil, and let rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 1.5–2 hours (depending on roast size and desired doneness)
Rest time: 15–20 minutes
Total time: about 2–2.5 hours

Variations

Mustard herb crust: Add Dijon mustard to the herb mixture for tangy flavor.
Butter-basted: Mix softened butter with herbs and garlic for a richer crust.
Slow cooker option: Sear the beef first, then cook in the slow cooker on low for 6–8 hours.
Spicy twist: Add crushed red pepper or smoked paprika to the herb rub.
Prime rib style: Use a bone-in rib roast for a more indulgent cut.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze slices in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) or in a covered skillet with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

FAQs

What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

Ribeye, sirloin tip, or top round are excellent options for roasting.

Should I sear the beef before roasting?

The high-temperature sear at the beginning creates a flavorful crust, so no stovetop sear is necessary.

How do I know when my roast is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for your preferred doneness.

Do I need to marinate the beef?

No, the garlic herb rub provides plenty of flavor.

Can I prepare the roast ahead of time?

Yes, season the beef up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.

Why does the roast need to rest?

Resting allows juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and tender.

Can I make gravy with the drippings?

Yes, use the pan drippings to make a flavorful beef gravy or au jus.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Yes, use one-third the amount of dried herbs since they are more concentrated.

How thin should I slice the roast?

Slice thinly against the grain for the most tender bite.

What sides go best with roast beef?

Mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, green beans, Yorkshire pudding, or a crisp salad pair beautifully.

Conclusion

Garlic Herb Roast Beef is a timeless recipe that turns a simple cut of beef into a flavorful, juicy centerpiece for any special occasion. With its savory garlic-herb crust and tender slices, it’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table. Serve it with your favorite sides for a meal that’s both comforting and elegant.