How to Cook a Frozen Beef Roast to Perfection

Cooking a frozen beef roast may seem daunting, but it can be easy and delicious with the right techniques. Learning how to properly defrost, season, and cook a frozen roast ensures you get a tender, juicy result.

Follow this complete guide to defrosting, prepping, and roasting frozen beef roast to achieve restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Defrosting a Frozen Roast

Before cooking a frozen beef roast, it’s crucial to thaw it properly for even cooking. Here are safe methods:

• Refrigerator: Unwrap roast and place on a tray. Allow to defrost 24 hours per 5 pounds. A 3-4 lb roast takes 1-2 days.

• Cold Water: Put roast in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water. Change water every 30 minutes. Defrosts 1 lb per hour.

• Microwave: Defrost roast based on microwave wattage and roast size. Cook immediately.

Defrosting in the refrigerator is ideal as it keeps the roast safe from bacteria. For a quicker thaw, use the cold water method and cook right away.

Seasoning and Preparing a Frozen Roast

Once thawed, season and prep the roast:

• Pat dry – Blot roast with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

• Season generously – Coat all sides with salt, pepper, herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic. Massage seasonings into the meat.

• Add aromatics – Stuff pieces of onion, carrots, and celery into the middle to impart flavor.

• Sear (optional) – Browning the outside of the roast adds caramelization. Use oil in a hot pan.

• Tie roast – Secure rolled roasts with kitchen twine to maintain shape and cook evenly.

• Make a bed – Line the roasting pan with onions, carrots, and celery.

How to Cook a Frozen Roast in the Oven

The oven yields the most flavorful roast. Use these tips:

• Preheat to 325°F – Low, steady heat ensures the interior cooks fully.

• Place roast fat-side up – Fat bastes the meat and keeps it tender.

• Roast uncovered – Uncovered roasts brown better. Add broth if drying out.

• Cook approximately 15-20 minutes per pound for medium doneness. A 3 lb roast takes 45-60 minutes.

• Use a meat thermometer – Internal temperature should reach 145°F. Let rest 15 minutes before carving.

Alternative Cooking Methods

Besides the oven, you can also cook a frozen roast using:

• Slow cooker: Cook on low 8-10 hours. Brown meat first for added flavor.

• Pressure cooker: Cook 20-30 minutes per pound on high pressure. Use natural release.

• Instant Pot: Pressure cook frozen roast 25-40 minutes per pound on manual high. Release pressure naturally 10 minutes.

• Sous vide: Vacuum seal thawed roast and cook 24-48 hours at 135°F. Sear before serving.

• Stovetop: Brown roast on all sides in a Dutch oven, then simmer in broth until tender.

Sample Seasoning Blends

Flavor your roast with spice blends like:

• Herbes de Provence, salt, pepper
• Rosemary, garlic, onion powder
• Chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne
• Italian seasoning, balsamic vinegar
• Paprika, coriander, mustard powder
• Coffee, chili powder, brown sugar

Get creative with seasonal spices, herbs, citrus, vinegars, mustards, and more to make each roast unique.

Serving Suggestions

Once your frozen roast beef is fork-tender, serve it with:

• Mashed or roasted potatoes
• Buttered egg noodles or rice
• Steamed or roasted vegetables
• Yorkshire puddings
• Gravy or au jus
• Horseradish sauce
• Fresh herbs

With the right defrosting and roasting, a frozen beef roast can become the centerpiece of a fabulous homecooked meal. Experiment with different seasonings and cuts of roast. In no time, you’ll be serving restaurant-worthy roast beef straight from your own kitchen.