When it comes to making an unforgettable, tender roast, the eye of round roast is often overlooked due to its reputation for being a tough cut of meat. However, with the right techniques and recipes, this affordable cut can transform into a succulent and flavorful centerpiece for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a Pioneer Woman-inspired recipe or simply searching for the best method to cook eye of round roast, this guide covers everything from ingredients to tips, with detailed steps and essential advice for a perfect roast every time.

Ingredients for Eye of Round Roast Recipes

The key to making the best eye of round roast is keeping things simple. Below are the ingredients you will need for the two popular recipes inspired by the Pioneer Woman style of cooking.

Pioneer Woman Eye of Round Roast (with Garlic and Red Wine Gravy)

• 4 lb. eye of round roast
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp seasoned salt
• 1 ½ tsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp butter, cut into thin slices
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 8 sprigs fresh thyme
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cups beef stock
• 1 tbsp + 1 tsp all-purpose flour

This recipe combines a flavorful garlic-studded roast with a rich pan sauce made from red wine, beef stock, and caramelized onions.

High-Temperature Eye of Round Roast Recipe

• 3 lb. eye of round roast
• Salt and pepper, to taste

This simple and no-fuss recipe uses high heat to create a flavorful crust while keeping the roast moist and tender. Feel free to customize the seasonings to match your personal preferences. 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Eye of Round Roast

Pioneer Woman Style Roast with Garlic and Red Wine Gravy

1. Prepare the Roast:
   • Preheat your oven to 475°F.
   • Cut 12 slits in the beef roast.
   • Thinly slice 4 cloves of garlic into 12 pieces, then insert the garlic pieces into the slits of the roast. Let the roast rest at room temperature for 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
2. Season the Roast:
   • In a small bowl, mix seasoned salt, brown sugar, and ground black pepper.
   • Brush the roast with 1 tbsp olive oil, then sprinkle the seasoning mixture generously over the entire roast.
3. Prepare the Pan:
   • Place thinly sliced onions and thyme sprigs in a large cast-iron skillet.
   • Pour 1 cup of red wine over the onions and thyme.
   • Position the seasoned roast on top of the onions, then scatter 2 tbsp butter over the roast.
4. Roast the Meat:
   • Place the skillet in the preheated oven and roast for 15 minutes to caramelize the surface.
   • Without removing the roast from the oven, reduce the oven temperature to 275°F and cook for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 120°F.
   • Remove from the oven and tent with foil. Allow the roast to rest for 15 to 30 minutes.
   •  The internal temperature will rise to about 132°F for a perfect medium-rare.
5. Make the Pan Sauce:
   • Remove the thyme sprigs from the skillet.
   • Whisk beef stock and flour together until smooth.
   • Pour the mixture into the skillet, bring to a simmer over medium heat, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve:
   • Slice the roast thinly and serve with the red wine gravy poured over the meat.

High-Temperature Eye of Round Roast

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 500°F.
2. Season the Roast:
   • Season the 3 lb. eye of round roast generously with salt and pepper.
3. Roast the Beef:
   • Transfer the seasoned roast to a roasting pan or baking dish.
   •  Do not cover or add water.
   • Place the roast in the oven and immediately reduce the temperature to 475°F.
   • Roast for 7 minutes per pound. For a 3-pound roast, this means 21 minutes. Then, turn off the oven and let the roast sit in the hot oven for 2 ½ hours. Do not open the oven door during this resting period.
4. Check and Serve:
   • After the resting time, remove the roast and check the internal temperature, which should be 145°F for medium doneness.
   • Carve the roast into thin slices and serve.

Comparison of Eye of Round Roast Cooking Methods

Nutrition Facts

Pioneer Woman Eye of Round Roast with Gravy

High-Temperature Eye of Round Roast

Tips for Perfect Eye of Round Roast

• Resting is Crucial: Allow the roast to rest before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring the meat stays tender and juicy.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Since the eye of round is a lean cut, checking the internal temperature is essential to avoid overcooking. Aim for 120°F for medium-rare.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: If you’re using the Pioneer Woman recipe, ensure the onions and thyme have plenty of space to cook properly. Overcrowding can result in uneven cooking.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the seasoning rub for the Pioneer Woman recipe in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

FAQ: Eye of Round Roast Recipes

How do you make eye of round roast tender?

The key to tenderness is slow and low cooking. Whether you’re following the Pioneer Woman method of roasting at two temperatures or the high-temperature method, both approaches allow the roast to cook slowly, ensuring it stays juicy and tender. Resting the roast is also vital to preserve the moisture inside.

Can I cook eye of round roast at a lower temperature?

Yes! You can cook the roast at a lower temperature, such as 250°F, but this will extend the cooking time. Cooking at a lower temperature for a longer period results in a more evenly cooked roast.

Can I use a different cut of beef for these recipes?

Both recipes work well with other cuts, such as sirloin or top round, but cooking times and temperatures may need adjustment based on the thickness of the cut. The key is to ensure the roast reaches the desired internal temperature.

Conclusion

The eye of round roast is an affordable and versatile cut of beef that can be cooked to perfection with the right recipe. Whether you choose the Pioneer Woman-style roast with garlic and red wine gravy or the high-temperature method, both techniques deliver tender and flavorful results. By following these simple recipes and tips, you can create a delicious roast that will impress your guests and become a family favorite for holidays and special occasions.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and enjoy a hearty meal with minimal effort!