How to Make Perfectly Crispy Roast Potatoes and Juicy Roast Beef

How to Make Perfectly Crispy Roast Potatoes and Juicy Roast Beef

There's nothing quite like a hearty meal featuring succulent roast beef and perfectly crispy roast potatoes. Whether you're preparing a special dinner or just craving a comforting meal, this recipe will guide you to create a delicious feast. Let's dive into the details.

Ingredients

For the Roast Beef:

• 4 to 5 pounds beef roast (ribeye or sirloin recommended)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• Fresh rosemary (a few sprigs, chopped)

For the Fondant Potatoes:

• 6 large potatoes (peeled and halved)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth
• Fresh thyme (a few sprigs)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Preparing the Roast Beef:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the Beef: Generously season the beef roast with salt and pepper on all sides.
3. Sear the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef roast and sear until browned on all sides.
4. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped rosemary to the skillet, ensuring they coat the beef roast.
5. Roast the Beef: Transfer the beef roast to a roasting pan and place it in the preheated oven. Cook until the beef reaches your desired level of doneness (use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy).

Making the Fondant Potatoes:

1. Melt the Butter: In a large oven-safe skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the Potatoes: Place the potato halves in the skillet, flat side down, and cook until golden brown.
3. Add Broth and Herbs: Pour in the chicken or beef broth and add the fresh thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bake the Potatoes: Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake the potatoes until they are tender and have absorbed the broth, creating a rich, flavorful interior.

Resting and Serving:

1. Rest the Beef: Once the beef is cooked, let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring it stays moist.
2. Serve: Arrange the fondant potatoes alongside the sliced roast beef on a serving platter. Garnish with additional fresh thyme or rosemary if desired.

Tips for Perfect Results:

• Use a Meat Thermometer: For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast beef. Aim for 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare or 145°F (63°C) for medium.
• Crispy Potatoes: Ensure the potatoes are well-browned before adding the broth. This helps achieve that perfect crispy exterior.
• Resting Time: Don’t skip the resting time for the beef. This step is crucial for maintaining its juiciness.

Serving Suggestions:

• Gravy: Make a rich gravy using the pan drippings from the roast beef.
• Vegetables: Serve with steamed or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Wine Pairing: Pair with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, to complement the flavors of the beef.