How to Cook a Juicy Steamship Round Roast Beef

Cooking an impressive whole steamship round roast beef may seem intimidating, but with a few simple techniques you can have delicious, tender beef to feed a crowd!

What is Steamship Round?

Steamship round refers to a specific beef roast cut from the back leg of the cow, It gets its name from its use to feed large groups on steamships back in the day!

This flavorful roast contains portions of the rump, sirloin tip and bottom round. It can weigh from 30 to 60 pounds or more. Whencooked correctly, it makes for a dramatic centerpiece to a special meal.

Selecting and Preparing the Roast

Look for a roast that is well marbled with white fat streaks throughout the lean red meat This adds moisture and flavor as it cooks

Purchase your roast 2-3 days before you plan to cook it. Keep refrigerated until ready to prep.

Remove roast from packaging and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Pat dry with paper towels. Trim off any large chunks of fat or silver skin.

Determining Cook Time

Cooking time varies widely for steamship round depending on the size. Plan on 20 minutes per pound in a 300°F oven.

So a 30 pound roast will need about 10 hours. For 50 pounds, allow 16-18 hours.

Use an instant-read thermometer to check for doneness. Cook to an internal temperature of 140°F for medium rare.

Seasoning the Roast

For best flavor, generously season the roast all over with:

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

You can also rub on fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme or sage. Let seasoning sit for 30 minutes before roasting.

Low and Slow Oven Method

Cooking a steamship round is all about low and slow oven roasting:

• Preheat oven to 300°F.

• Place roast fat side up in a large roasting pan.

• Surround with roughly chopped carrots, onions, celery and garlic.

• Add 1 cup beef broth or stock to pan.

• Cover pan tightly with heavy duty foil.

• Roast for determined time, checking periodically with thermometer.

• Remove foil during last hour for browning if desired.

• Let rest 30 minutes before slicing.

Au Jus Gravy

Don’t forget to make use of the flavorful pan drippings!

• Remove roast and veggies to a platter and tent with foil.

• Pour juices from pan into a fat separator. Let sit 5 minutes.

• Pour off clear juices into saucepan. Discard fat.

• Whisk in 2 tablespoons cornstarch dissolved in 1⁄4 cup cold water.

• Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly until thickened.

• Season with salt and pepper. Serve alongside slices of roast.

Carving Tips

Carving a giant roast can be daunting. Follow these tips for success:

• Use an electric knife to cut thin slices across the grain.

• Have a wide cutting board available near the platter.

• Cut slices as you go rather than carving whole roast first.

• Keep slices covered with foil as you work to prevent drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Along with au jus for dipping, serve roast beef with:

• Horseradish cream – Mix 1⁄2 cup sour cream with 3 tablespoons prepared horseradish and 1 teaspoon lemon juice.

• Yorkshire puddings – Prepare British-style baked puffs in muffin tins right before serving.

• Roasted vegetables – Potatoes, carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts all pair nicely.

• Dinner rolls – Soft rolls are perfect for sopping up delicious juices.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Allow roast to cool completely, then refrigerate leftover beef and juices separately.

• Slice beef and reheat in au jus on the stovetop over low. Add water if juices seem dry.

• Use leftovers for hearty sandwiches, wraps, tacos, pizza and casseroles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common steamship round cooking questions:

What if I don’t have a roast thermometer? Use a thin knife to check the thickest part of the meat. When cooked to medium rare, it should feel gently resistant.

Can I cook it at a higher temperature? Yes, but not above 350°F. The roast may get done faster but can dry out. Stick to 300°F for best results.

What if the ends look too brown? If the outer areas seem to be overcooking, loosely tent them with foil to slow cooking.

What size pan should I use? Choose a heavy roasting pan just large enough to comfortably fit the roast laid flat. Avoid squeezing into too snug of a pan.

Can I cook it on the grill? You can certainly grill a steamship round but indirect heat is best to avoid burning. Setup for smoking on one side and move it over direct heat just to finish. Use wood chunks for flavor.

Get Creative With Leftover Roast Beef

Steamship round roast beef is perfect for so many dishes:

• Beef stew – Dice beef into bite-size pieces and simmer with veggies in broth.

• Beef stroganoff – Slice beef thinly and sauté with mushrooms and sour cream sauce over egg noodles.

• Nachos – Pile tortilla chips with shredded beef, beans, salsa and melted cheese.

• Sandwiches – Load up bread, rolls or croissants with slices of beef, peppers, onions and cheese.

With the right preparation and cooking technique, you can serve a show-stopping steamship round roast beef at your next big gathering. The aroma as it cooks will have everyone eager for a taste!