Name: Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 45 min
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the Roast: 3–4 lb beef roast (such as chuck or ribeye); Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 cup whole cranberry sauce (canned or homemade); 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 teaspoon dried rosemary or 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 1 small onion, sliced (optional)

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Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef is a flavorful, festive main dish that blends the rich savoriness of slow-roasted beef with the sweet-tart contrast of cranberries and balsamic vinegar. This recipe delivers a tender, juicy roast that’s infused with bold flavor, perfect for holiday meals, Sunday dinners, or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This roast beef is anything but ordinary—it’s packed with robust, layered flavors thanks to the balance of sweet cranberries, tangy balsamic vinegar, and aromatic herbs. It’s incredibly easy to prepare with minimal hands-on time and is a perfect make-ahead meal. Plus, the leftovers are fantastic in sandwiches or grain bowls.

ingredients

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

Chuck roast or top round roast
Fresh or frozen cranberries
Balsamic vinegar
Beef broth
Onion
Garlic cloves
Brown sugar or honey
Olive oil
Dried rosemary
Salt
Black pepper

directions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Season the roast generously with salt and black pepper.
In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in balsamic vinegar, beef broth, cranberries, brown sugar, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
Return the roast to the pot, spoon some of the sauce over the top, and cover with a lid.
Roast in the oven for about 3–3.5 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
Once done, let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. Spoon cranberry balsamic sauce over the meat when serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 3–3.5 hours
Total time: About 3 hours 45 minutes

Variations

Use boneless short ribs instead of chuck roast for a different texture.
Add a splash of red wine for deeper flavor.
Swap cranberries with dried cranberries soaked in broth or juice if fresh/frozen aren’t available.
Add a cinnamon stick or a few whole cloves for a subtle warm spice twist.
Make it in a slow cooker: cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place sliced meat and sauce in a covered dish and warm in a 325°F oven or microwave until heated through.
You can also freeze it for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What cut of beef should I use?

Chuck roast or top round roast works best for this recipe due to their tenderness after slow cooking.

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Yes, soak them in warm broth or juice for 15–20 minutes before adding to the dish.

Is this dish sweet or savory?

It’s a perfect balance of both—the balsamic and herbs add savory depth while cranberries and sugar bring sweetness.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for about 4–5 hours until the beef is tender.

What should I serve with cranberry balsamic roast beef?

Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, polenta, or a simple green salad pair beautifully with it.

Can I prepare it ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day. Just store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Does it freeze well?

Yes, it freezes great. Store in a freezer-safe container with sauce for up to 2 months.

Can I use pork instead of beef?

Yes, pork shoulder or pork loin would also work well with the cranberry balsamic flavors.

How do I thicken the sauce?

You can simmer the sauce on the stovetop after cooking to reduce it, or stir in a cornstarch slurry if needed.

How do I keep the beef from drying out?

Make sure it’s well covered during roasting and that there’s enough liquid in the pot to keep it moist.

Conclusion

Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef is a show-stopping main dish that delivers deep flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The sweet-tart cranberries and tangy balsamic elevate the classic roast into something truly special—perfect for the holidays or anytime you want a comforting, flavorful meal. With simple ingredients and a stress-free method, this recipe is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Cranberry Balsamic Roast Beef