A Luxurious Twist on Classic Comfort Food
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Rest Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: About 3 hours and 40 minutes
Serves: 6 to 8 hearty portions
If you’re looking to make a statement at the dinner table, this Bacon-Wrapped Envelope Roast delivers. Tender, slow-cooked beef chuck is seasoned, seared, and wrapped in smoky bacon — creating a rich, deeply flavorful dish that feels equal parts rustic and gourmet.
Ideal for holidays, Sunday suppers, or any time you want to serve something truly special, this roast fills your home with irresistible aromas and your plate with comfort.
What Is an “Envelope” Roast?
The term comes from the way the bacon is wrapped around the roast — like an envelope holding something precious inside. The bacon seals in moisture, bastes the meat as it cooks, and forms a crispy, savory crust that elevates every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
1 beef chuck roast (3 to 4 pounds)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, but highly recommended)
8 to 10 slices of bacon, enough to fully wrap the roast
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, for searing
Optional aromatics:
1 onion, sliced
2 to 3 garlic cloves, smashed
1 cup beef broth or dry red wine (or a combination of both)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Meat
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
Pat the beef chuck roast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning adhere and allows for a better sear.
2. Season the Roast
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Rub this seasoning blend generously all over the roast, making sure to coat all sides thoroughly.
3. Sear for Flavor
Heat the olive oil or butter in a large, heavy-bottomed oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Add the seasoned roast and sear for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, or until a rich, brown crust forms.
Remove from heat and transfer the roast to a cutting board to cool slightly before wrapping.
4. Wrap the Roast in Bacon
Lay out your bacon slices on a clean surface, slightly overlapping them to form a blanket.
Place the roast in the center and fold the bacon up and over, wrapping it completely.
Tuck the ends underneath, or secure the bundle with kitchen twine to keep everything in place.
5. Add Aromatics and Liquid (Optional)
Return the bacon-wrapped roast to your Dutch oven or skillet, seam-side down.
If using, scatter sliced onions and smashed garlic around the meat. Pour in the beef broth, red wine, or a mix of the two.
Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
6. Roast Low and Slow
Place the covered dish in the oven and roast for 2.5 to 3 hours.
For doneness, aim for an internal temperature of:
145°F (63°C) for medium-rare
160°F (71°C) for medium
Baste the roast once or twice with the pan juices to enhance flavor and keep the bacon moist.
7. Rest Before Slicing
After roasting, carefully remove the roast from the oven. Let it rest on a cutting board, tented loosely with foil, for 15 to 20 minutes.
Resting is key — it allows the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
8. Slice and Serve
Use a sharp carving knife to slice the roast against the grain into thick portions.
Drizzle with the pan juices, or serve the juices on the side as a rustic gravy.
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a loaf of crusty bread to soak up every drop.
Tips for Success
Use a meat thermometer for precise results and to avoid overcooking.
For extra flavor, replace half the broth with dry red wine.
If you want crispier bacon, uncover the roast during the last 15 minutes of cooking or briefly broil it — but watch closely to avoid burning.
Use good-quality bacon and a marbled chuck roast for the richest flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This roast is rich, indulgent, and packed with flavor. The bacon not only adds a smoky, savory crust but also keeps the roast moist throughout the long cook. The slow roasting process transforms a humble cut of beef into a dish that’s both elegant and comforting.
Perfect for:
Celebrations and special occasions
Cozy Sunday dinners
Impressing friends or family with minimal fuss
A comforting meal that feels like a gourmet experience
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
Make ahead: Season and wrap the roast the night before. Store it covered in the fridge, then bring it to room temperature before roasting.
Leftovers: Store slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To freeze: Freeze cooled slices in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently in the oven with a splash of broth or gravy.
Final Thoughts
The Bacon-Wrapped Envelope Roast is more than just a meal — it’s a celebration of bold, slow-cooked flavor and satisfying textures. Whether you serve it at a holiday gathering or a quiet family dinner, it delivers both comfort and a sense of occasion. Simple, yet luxurious, this dish is bound to become a cherished part of your roast repertoire.
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