Description
A tender, slow-braised beef roast simmered in a rich blend of cranberries, balsamic vinegar, and herbs resulting in a savory-sweet glaze that’s perfect for elegant dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
3–4 lb beef chuck roast
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 cup cranberry juice (or cranberry sauce)
1/3 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
1/2 tsp rosemary
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Pat the beef roast dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
4. Add sliced onions and garlic to the pot; sauté until softened and fragrant.
5. Stir in beef broth, cranberry juice, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return the roast to the pot, spooning some liquid over the top. Cover with lid.
7. Transfer to the oven and braise for 3–3½ hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
8. Remove the roast and reduce the braising liquid on the stovetop for 10–15 minutes, stirring until thickened into a glaze.
9. Slice the roast and drizzle with the cranberry balsamic glaze. Garnish with fresh cranberries or herbs if desired.
Notes
For an extra-rich flavor, add a splash of red wine to the braising liquid.
Serve with mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to soak up the sauce.
Leftovers make amazing sandwiches the next day!
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 3 hrs 30 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Braised
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion (about 6 oz beef + sauce)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 14g
- Sodium: 510mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
Keywords: cranberry balsamic beef roast, braised beef, holiday roast, slow cooked beef, savory sweet glaze