How Long to Cook Frozen Roast Beef Per Pound: Easy Guide

Craving a hearty roast beef dinner but forgot to thaw the meat? Don’t worry! Cooking a frozen roast beef is totally doable, and with the right know-how, you can serve up a delicious, tender meal with minimal fuss. In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how many minutes per pound you need to cook a frozen roast beef, plus share expert tips for getting the best results every time.

Can You Cook Roast Beef Straight from the Freezer?

Absolutely! While it’s generally easier to work with thawed meat, you can safely cook roast beef from frozen. The main difference is that it takes longer in the oven or slow cooker. The key is adjusting your cooking time and temperature to ensure the beef cooks evenly and reaches a safe internal temperature.

How Many Minutes Per Pound to Cook Frozen Roast Beef?

For frozen roast beef, you’ll want to increase your cooking time by approximately 50% compared to thawed meat. Here’s a simple breakdown:

• Oven Roasting: Plan for 30-40 minutes per pound at 325°F (163°C).
• Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 7-9 hours or on high for 5-6 hours, depending on the size of your roast.
• Pressure Cooker (Instant Pot): Use about 25-30 minutes per pound, plus natural release.

Example: For a 3-pound frozen roast beef, oven roasting will take about 1.5 to 2 hours. Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness!

Step-by-Step: Cooking Frozen Roast Beef in the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Remove packaging and place the frozen roast on a rack in a roasting pan. If you like, add chopped onions, carrots, or potatoes around the meat for a complete meal.
3. Season generously. Since the surface may be icy, sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, and your favorite herbs over the top. As the roast thaws in the oven, seasonings will gradually soak in.
4. Add liquid. Pour about 1 cup of beef broth or water into the bottom of the pan to keep things moist.
5. Cover loosely with foil. This helps retain moisture and promotes even cooking.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes per pound. For a medium-sized roast (3-4 lbs), expect about 2 to 2.5 hours total.
7. Check internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast. For medium-rare, aim for 135°F (57°C); for medium, 145°F (63°C).
8. Rest before slicing. Let your roast sit for at least 10-15 minutes before cutting. This keeps it juicy and flavorful.

Tips for Perfect Frozen Roast Beef Every Time

• Use a Meat Thermometer: This is non-negotiable! Cooking times are estimates—always check that your roast has reached at least 145°F (63°C) for food safety.
• Add Flavors Early: Season generously at the start, but feel free to baste with juices or add more herbs halfway through cooking.
• Don’t Skip Resting: Allowing your roast to rest before slicing helps lock in moisture and makes carving easier.
• Sear for Extra Flavor (Optional): If you have a few extra minutes, sear the frozen roast in a hot skillet before oven roasting. This step adds a delicious crust and boosts flavor.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Give your roast space in the pan so heat can circulate and cook it evenly.
• Add Veggies: Toss root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or parsnips around the roast for an easy one-pan meal.

Cooking Frozen Roast Beef in Other Appliances

Slow Cooker Method

• Add your frozen roast beef to the slow cooker with broth and seasonings.
• Cook on low for 7-9 hours or high for 5-6 hours. Check for doneness with a thermometer.
• This method is great for tougher cuts like chuck roast—slow cooking helps tenderize the meat beautifully!

Pressure Cooker (Instant Pot) Method

• Add frozen roast beef, broth, and aromatics to the pot.
• Set to high pressure and cook for about 25-30 minutes per pound.
• Allow natural pressure release for best results.
• This method is perfect when you’re short on time but want fork-tender results!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I cook any cut of beef from frozen?

Yes! Most common cuts like chuck, brisket, round, and sirloin roasts can be cooked straight from frozen. Thicker cuts may take longer than leaner ones, so always check with a thermometer.

Is it safe to cook beef from frozen?

Yes—just make sure your roast reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C). Cooking from frozen does not compromise safety if proper temperatures are reached.

Will my roast beef be as tender as if I thawed it first?

You might notice a slight difference in texture, but with slow cooking or pressure cooking methods, your roast will still turn out juicy and flavorful!

Should I thaw my roast beef if I have time?

If you can plan ahead, thawing in the fridge overnight will give you more control over seasoning and browning. But if you’re in a pinch, cooking from frozen works just fine!

Final Thoughts

Cooking roast beef straight from the freezer is easier than you might think! Remember to adjust your minutes per pound based on your chosen cooking method and always use a thermometer to check doneness. With these tips and tricks, you’ll never have to stress about last-minute dinners again—just pop that frozen roast in the oven or slow cooker and look forward to a cozy, satisfying meal!