Roast seasoned round beef at high heat to create a fragrant garlic-herb crust, then finish gently at a lower temperature for a tender, juicy, and rosy center.
Set the roast on a wire rack over a baking sheet and refrigerate it uncovered for at least 1 hour and up to overnight. The exposed surface will feel dry rather than tacky, which helps the roast brown more effectively.
Heat the oven to 450°F with a rack positioned in the center, then stir the garlic, olive oil, salt, rosemary, thyme, and pepper together in a small bowl. The mixture should form a loose, fragrant paste that coats the roast without sliding off.
Rub the herb paste over the beef and place it on a rack inside a large roasting pan. Cover the top, sides, and ends so the seasoning develops into an even crust.
Roast for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven to 325°F and continue cooking until the center reaches 135°F for medium, about 1 hour 20 to 30 minutes more. The exterior should be deep brown and smell strongly of toasted garlic and herbs while the center remains the best measure of doneness.
For medium-well, continue roasting until the thermometer reaches 145°F, about 2 hours total. The roast will feel firmer when gently pressed and will continue to rise in temperature as it rests.
Move the roast to a cutting board and rest it for 15 to 30 minutes before carving. Loosely tent it with foil if needed, leaving room for steam to escape so the crust stays intact.
Notes
Carving tip: Look for the visible grain lines across the meat and use a sharp knife to carve thin slices perpendicular to those lines for tender bites.Doneness: Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest center section. Remove at 130°F for medium-rare (rests to 135°F) or 140°F for medium (rests to 145°F).Reheating: Warm thin slices gently in hot broth or au jus to keep the beef moist instead of reheating at high microwave power.Nutrition information is an estimate based on common ingredients and serving sizes. Values may vary depending on brands, portions, and substitutions.