🥩 Envelope Roast – A Hearty, Budget-Friendly Beef Dish That’s Packed With Flavor 🧅🔥

For the Beef:

• 3–4 lb bottom round or chuck roast
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Seasoning Mix:

• 1 packet dry onion soup mix (or brown gravy mix)
• 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup red wine or beef broth (for au jus or gravy)
• Carrots, potatoes, onions (for roasting alongside the meat)

🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) . Trim excess fat from the roast if desired, and season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine the dry soup mix with garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to evenly blend.

Step 3: Coat the Roast

Rub the Worcestershire sauce over the entire surface of the roast. Then press the seasoning mix firmly onto all sides — this creates a savory crust.

Step 4: Roast to Perfection

Place the roast on a rack inside a roasting pan or baking sheet. Cook for 20–25 minutes per pound , or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (medium-rare) to 160°F (medium) .

For extra flavor, add chopped veggies around the roast during the last hour of cooking.

Step 5: Rest & Slice

Remove from oven and let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute and ensures tender, flavorful slices.

Optional: Deglaze the pan with red wine or broth to create a quick au jus for serving.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve warm with mashed potatoes and gravy.
• Layer thinly sliced beef on hoagie rolls for deli-style sandwiches .
• Pair with green beans or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Leftovers make excellent stuffed peppers, hash browns, or wraps .

🧊 Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently in the oven or skillet to preserve texture.
• Freeze cooked slices for up to 3 months — thaw overnight and reheat.

🌱 Dietary Modifications & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free : Use gluten-free soup mix or homemade seasoning blend.
• Low-Sodium : Opt for reduced-sodium soup mix or make your own spice rub.
• Dairy-Free : Most dry soup mixes are dairy-free, but always check labels.
• Keto-Friendly : Skip added sugar in seasoning and serve with cauliflower mash.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a slow cooker?

Yes! Rub the seasoning on the beef, place in the slow cooker with ½ cup beef broth, and cook on low for 8 hours.

What cut of beef works best?

Bottom round, eye of round, or chuck roast all work beautifully.

Do I have to use soup mix?

You can make your own by combining onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.

🎉 Final Thoughts

The Envelope Roast may be simple, but it's packed with flavor and history — perfect for anyone craving a comforting, no-fuss dinner that feels like a hug on a plate.

With just a few ingredients and one pan, you can create a moist, savory roast that feeds the whole family and leaves plenty for lunch the next day.

So go ahead — unwrap the magic of this old-school recipe and enjoy every bite of this hearty, flavor-rich classic.