This Baron of Beef on a Bun recipe is all about tender, slow-roasted beef sliced thinly and served on soft buns. Perfect for hearty meals and gatherings, each sandwich can be customized with toppings like caramelized onions, horseradish sauce, or a rich, savory au jus for dipping.
Did You Know?
This classic sandwich is a favorite at large gatherings because it’s affordable, easy to prepare, and appeals to a wide range of tastes. It became popular for events and celebrations as it allows you to feed many guests by slicing the beef thinly and serving it on buns. The versatile flavor pairs well with toppings and sauces, making each sandwich easy to customize.
Yield:
10-12 sandwiches
Ingredients:
For the Beef
1 whole baron of beef roast (about 4-5 lbs)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2-3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups beef broth or stock
1 cup water
For the Sandwiches
10-12 soft sandwich buns or Kaiser rolls
Optional toppings: caramelized onions, horseradish sauce, cheddar cheese, au jus for dipping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Roast
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the baron of beef roast dry with paper towels and rub it all over with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika. Place the roast in a large roasting pan.
Personal Tip: Let the seasoned roast sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before roasting. This allows the meat to cook more evenly by reducing the temperature difference between the center and the surface, helping to achieve a juicier, tender roast.
2. Add Broth and Roast
Pour the beef broth and water into the bottom of the roasting pan to keep the roast moist and provide the base for au jus. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Roast for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Personal Tip: Baste the roast with the pan juices every hour to maintain moisture and deepen the flavor.
3. Rest and Slice the Beef
Remove the roast from the oven, tent it loosely with foil, and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This resting period helps redistribute the juices for more tender slices. Slice the beef very thinly against the grain for tender, easy-to-bite pieces.
4. Toast the Buns (Optional)
While the beef is resting, split the buns and toast them lightly in the oven or on a skillet until golden brown.
5. Make the Au Jus
After slicing the beef, pour the remaining juices from the roasting pan into a small saucepan. If there’s not enough juice, add 1/2 to 1 cup of beef broth to ensure a good amount of au jus. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding a pinch of salt and pepper if desired. Serve warm alongside the sandwiches for dipping.
6. Assemble the Sandwiches
Place a generous portion of sliced beef onto each bun. Add any desired toppings, such as caramelized onions or horseradish sauce, and serve with a side of au jus for dipping.
Personal Tip: Keep the sliced beef warm in the pan juices over low heat until ready to serve, ensuring every bite stays tender and juicy.
A Little More Information About This Baron of Beef on a Bun
Flavor Profile
This recipe brings out the rich, savory flavor of slow-roasted baron of beef, enhanced with garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika. The pan juices create a delicious au jus for dipping, adding extra moisture and depth to each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these sandwiches with sides like crispy fries, potato salad, or a green salad for a complete meal. The beef can be made ahead and gently reheated in the au jus, making it a convenient option for large gatherings.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 450, Protein: 30g, Carbohydrates: 35g, Fiber: 2g, Net Carbohydrates: 33g, Fat: 18g, Saturated Fat: 6g, Cholesterol: 85mg, Sodium: 750mg, Sugars: 3g, Glycemic Index: Medium
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
- Choose the Right Cut: Baron of beef is a lean cut that benefits from slow roasting to become tender. It’s typically less expensive than prime cuts, making it ideal for feeding a crowd.
- Use Leftovers: Leftover beef makes fantastic sandwiches the next day or can be chopped up for soups or stews.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Try adding herbs like rosemary or spices like onion powder to enhance flavor.
- Easy Au Jus: Use the drippings from the roasting pan as the base for au jus. If needed, add beef broth to stretch the amount for dipping.
- Toast for Texture: Toasting the buns adds a pleasant crunch and keeps the bread from getting soggy when you add juicy beef slices.
- Thin Slices for Tenderness: Thinly sliced beef is easier to eat and tenderer, especially with lean cuts.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Monitor the internal temperature of the roast with a thermometer to ensure it’s cooked perfectly.
- Baste for Flavor: Basting with pan juices enhances the roast’s flavor and prevents it from drying out.
- Perfect Buns: Kaiser rolls or soft sandwich buns work well for these sandwiches, absorbing the au jus without falling apart.
- Complete the Meal: Serve with creamy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch alongside the savory beef.
Let’s Learn About Beef Roasts
Baron of Beef
This top sirloin roast is lean, flavorful, and perfect for slow roasting. Its affordability and ability to feed a crowd make it ideal for events.
Prime Rib
Known for its rich marbling and tenderness, prime rib is luxurious and has a higher price point, often reserved for special occasions.
Chuck Roast
A budget-friendly option that is well-marbled and excellent for slow-cooking. While not typically used for slicing, it makes delicious pulled beef sandwiches.