18 Savory Cross Rib Roast Recipes Perfect for Special Occasions

recipesforlife

April 6, 2025

When it comes to special occasions, there’s nothing quite like a tender and flavorful cross rib roast to impress your guests. With its rich, beefy flavor and fall-apart texture, this classic cut of meat is sure to be a hit at any dinner party or holiday gathering. But why settle for just one way of cooking it when you can try 17 different recipes that bring out the best in this delicious cut?

From slow-cooked classics to bold, globally-inspired flavors, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 savory cross rib roast recipes perfect for special occasions. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, homemade meal or something more adventurous, we’ve gathered some of the most mouthwatering and impressive cross rib roast dishes out there.

In this article, we’ll explore the world of cross rib roasts and provide you with a plethora of recipe ideas to try. From classic pairings like garlic and herbs to bold flavors like red wine and shallots, we’ll take you on a culinary journey that’s sure to delight your taste buds.

Slow Cooker Cross Rib Roast with Garlic and Herbs

Slow Cooker Cross Rib Roast with Garlic and Herbs
Slow Cooker Cross Rib Roast with Garlic and Herbs

A tender and flavorful slow-cooked roast that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef cross rib roast
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup beef broth

Instructions:

1. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 2 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the roast to the slow cooker. Add the garlic, beef broth, and any remaining juices from the skillet.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Remove the roast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 4-10 hours

Red Wine Braised Cross Rib Roast

Red Wine Braised Cross Rib Roast
A classic slow-cooked roast recipe that’s perfect for special occasions or cozy weeknights, this red wine braised cross rib roast is fall-apart tender and packed with rich flavors.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 pound beef cross rib roast
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add sliced onion to the pot and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the roast to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 to 3 hours or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Smoked Cross Rib Roast with Coffee Rub

Smoked Cross Rib Roast with Coffee Rub
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked beef with a bold coffee rub, resulting in a tender and savory roast perfect for special occasions. With just a few simple steps, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously unique main course.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) cross rib roast
– 1/2 cup coffee rub (see below)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Coffee Rub:

– 1/2 cup freshly ground coffee beans
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the coffee rub ingredients.
3. Rub the coffee mixture all over the cross rib roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the roast in the smoker and cook for 8-10 hours, or until tender.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours

Cross Rib Roast with Rosemary and Thyme

Cross Rib Roast with Rosemary and Thyme

Cross Rib Roast with Rosemary and Thyme

A classic combination of herbs and beef, this recipe yields a tender and flavorful cross rib roast. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.

  • 1 (3-4 pound) cross rib roast
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  1. Precare the cross rib roast by trimming any excess fat. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chopped rosemary, and dried thyme. Rub the mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat evenly.
  3. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven at 325°F (160°C). Roast for approximately 2-3 hours, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.

Cooking time: 2-3 hours. Resting time: 15 minutes.

Honey Glazed Cross Rib Roast with Root Vegetables

Honey Glazed Cross Rib Roast with Root Vegetables
Elevate your Sunday roast game with this sweet and savory honey glazed cross rib roast, served alongside a medley of roasted root vegetables.

Ingredients:

– 1.5 kg beef cross rib roast
– 120 ml honey
– 60 ml apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Root vegetables (such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes), peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the cross rib roast in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the meat.
4. Roast the beef for about 20 minutes per kilogram, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. Toss the root vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread them out in a single layer around the roast.
6. Continue to roast everything together for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.

Cooking Time:

– Beef cross rib roast: 1 hour 20 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes
– Root vegetables: 30-40 minutes

Cross Rib Roast Au Jus with Caramelized Onions

Cross Rib Roast Au Jus with Caramelized Onions
Experience the rich flavor of a slow-cooked roast paired with sweet and savory caramelized onions, all wrapped up in a delicious au jus.

Ingredients:

– 3-4 pound cross rib roast
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the roast from the pot and set aside. Add the sliced onions to the pot, cooking until caramelized and golden, stirring occasionally, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Add the red wine (if using), beef broth, and tomato paste to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the roast to the pot and cover with a lid. Roast for 2-3 hours or until tender and falling apart.
7. Serve the roast with the au jus spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Spicy Cross Rib Roast with Chimichurri Sauce

Spicy Cross Rib Roast with Chimichurri Sauce
Get ready to spice up your dinner game with this bold and flavorful recipe! A tender cross rib roast is elevated by a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce, perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef cross rib roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves and stems
– 1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lime, juiced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, chili flakes, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, and lime juice in a food processor. Process until well combined.
6. Remove roast from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with chimichurri sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Cross Rib Roast with Mushroom Gravy

Cross Rib Roast with Mushroom Gravy
This classic roast recipe is a staple of any Sunday dinner. With the rich flavor of the beef and the earthy taste of mushrooms, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 pound) cross rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Season the roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on both sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the roast to a roasting pan and add sliced onion and minced garlic around it.
5. Roast the beef for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
6. While the roast is cooking, sauté mushrooms in butter until tender and fragrant.
7. Stir in beef broth and flour to make a gravy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve the roast with mushroom gravy spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Garlic Butter Cross Rib Roast with Roasted Potatoes

Garlic Butter Cross Rib Roast with Roasted Potatoes
A classic comfort food dish, this garlic butter cross rib roast pairs perfectly with roasted potatoes for a hearty and satisfying meal. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef cross rib roast
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter and minced garlic.
3. Place the cross rib roast in a roasting pan and spread the garlic butter evenly over the meat.
4. Roast the potatoes in a separate pan with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat and spread out in a single layer.
5. Roast the beef for 2-1/2 hours or until tender, flipping halfway through. Roast the potatoes for 45 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.
6. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving with roasted potatoes.

Cooking Time: 2 hours 45 minutes (beef) + 45 minutes (potatoes)

Cross Rib Roast with Balsamic Reduction

Cross Rib Roast with Balsamic Reduction
Elevate your Sunday roast game with this show-stopping cross rib roast, smothered in a rich and tangy balsamic reduction. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 pound beef cross rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in beef broth and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer and cover with a lid.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and roast for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Herb-Crusted Cross Rib Roast with Horseradish Cream

Herb-Crusted Cross Rib Roast with Horseradish Cream
Elevate your Sunday roast game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring a tender cross rib roast crusted with fresh herbs and served with a creamy horseradish accompaniment.

Ingredients:

– 2.5-3 pound beef cross rib roast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup horseradish cream (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the cross rib roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
7. Serve with horseradish cream.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-1/2 to 3 hours.

Cross Rib Roast with Red Wine and Shallot Sauce

Cross Rib Roast with Red Wine and Shallot Sauce
Elevate your roast game with this rich and flavorful Cross Rib Roast recipe, perfectly paired with a tangy red wine and shallot sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1.5-2 kg cross rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. In a large roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the cross rib roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the roast from the pan and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan; cook until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine to the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until reduced by half, about 10 minutes.
5. Return the roast to the pan and add the sliced shallots. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Asian-Inspired Soy-Ginger Cross Rib Roast

Asian-Inspired Soy-Ginger Cross Rib Roast
Elevate your roast game with this flavorful and aromatic soy-ginger cross rib roast, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. The combination of tender beef, savory soy sauce, and warm ginger will transport your taste buds to the Far East.

Ingredients:

– 2.5-3 pound beef cross rib roast
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and sesame oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until tender, flipping every 30 minutes.
6. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Cross Rib Roast with Mustard and Brown Sugar Glaze

Cross Rib Roast with Mustard and Brown Sugar Glaze
This recipe yields a fall-apart tender cross rib roast smothered in a rich mustard and brown sugar glaze. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy Sunday dinner.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef cross rib roast
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the roast with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. In a small bowl, mix together mustard and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and brush the glaze all over the meat.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and easily shredded with a fork.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours

Cross Rib Roast with Red Pepper and Fennel Rub

Cross Rib Roast with Red Pepper and Fennel Rub
A flavorful and aromatic roast that combines the rich taste of cross rib beef with the sweetness of red pepper and the anise flavor of fennel.

Ingredients:

– 2-3 lb beef cross rib roast
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup red pepper flakes
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh fennel
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together red pepper flakes, fennel, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the cross rib roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Slow-Roasted Cross Rib Roast with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Slow-Roasted Cross Rib Roast with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Experience the rich flavors of a slow-cooked roast paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes in this comforting recipe. Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 2.5-3 pound cross rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-5 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Garlic powder to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Transfer the roast to the preheated oven and cook for 2-3 hours or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and mash with butter, heavy cream or whole milk, and garlic powder.
5. Serve roasted cross rib roast with garlic mashed potatoes.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (roast) + 15-20 minutes (potatoes)

Cross Rib Roast with Blue Cheese Crust

Cross Rib Roast with Blue Cheese Crust
Elevate your Sunday roast game with this indulgent Cross Rib Roast topped with a tangy blue cheese crust. Perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners.

Ingredients:

– 2.5-3 pound cross rib roast
– 1/4 cup blue cheese crumbles (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season the cross rib roast with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the roast to a roasting pan and top with blue cheese crumbles.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. Let the roast rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours for a 2.5-pound roast.

Cross Rib Roast with Herb-Infused Olive Oil

Cross Rib Roast with Herb-Infused Olive Oil
Elevate your roast dinner with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, featuring a herb-infused olive oil crust that adds depth and complexity to the tender cross rib roast.

Ingredients:

– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef cross rib roast
– 1/4 cup herb-infused olive oil (see note)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together herb-infused olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Rub the mixture all over the cross rib roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the roast in a roasting pan and roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
6. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Note: To make herb-infused olive oil, combine 1/4 cup olive oil with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme, and 1 clove garlic, minced. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Summary

Get ready to impress your guests with these mouthwatering cross rib roast recipes perfect for special occasions. From classic slow cooker recipes to bold and innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try the rich flavors of red wine braised cross rib roast or spice things up with a spicy chimichurri sauce. For a sweet and savory combination, go for the honey glazed cross rib roast with root vegetables. With these 18 savory recipes, you’ll be sure to please even the pickiest palates.

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