Mouth-Watering BBQ: How to Cook Bottom Round Roast on a Gas Grill

By Avi Green October 05, 2023

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to cook bottom round roast on a gas grill. If you're a barbecue enthusiast craving to replicate restaurant-quality meals at home, you've come to the right place. Today, we'll dive into the nuances of cooking an impeccable bottom round roast using a gas grill. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the tips and expertise needed to amaze your family and friends with a spectacular roast, straight from your backyard.

how to cook bottom round roast on gas grill

Picking the Perfect Bottom Round Roast

The journey of mastering how to cook bottom round roast on a gas grill begins at your local butcher or grocery store. This cut is from the rear leg of the cow, making it lean but flavorful. When selecting your bottom round roast, look for a deep red color and a fine-grained texture. It should feel firm to the touch.

Why Choose Bottom Round Roast?

The bottom round roast is not only budget-friendly but also packed with proteins and essential nutrients. Due to its lean nature, it's perfect for slow-roasting, allowing the connective tissues to break down, resulting in a tender and juicy final product. Whether you prefer it medium-rare or well-done, it stands out in various roast recipes and is incredibly versatile for leftovers.

The Essential Tools [Cookware]

Before diving into how to cook bottom round roast on a gas grill, gather these essential tools:

These tools will not only make the grilling experience smoother but also ensure you achieve a perfect roast every time.

Preparing the Bottom Round Roast

Preparation is key. Start by trimming any excess fat from the roast. While a small amount of fat adds flavor and keeps the meat juicy, too much can lead to flare-ups on the grill. Pat the meat dry with paper towels to remove any moisture, which will help in achieving a beautiful sear.

Marinating the Roast

Marination is one of the secrets to a flavorful and tender roast. A simple yet effective marinade for a bottom round roast includes olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, soy sauce, and a hint of vinegar. The acidity of vinegar helps to tenderize the meat while the herbs infuse delightful flavors. Cover the roast with plastic wrap and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Seasoning

Before placing the roast on the grill, season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also sprinkle some smoked paprika for an additional layer of flavor. The salt will create a crust on the meat, locking in the juices and enhancing the overall taste.

Setting Up the Gas Grill

Properly setting up your gas grill is crucial. Preheat your grill to high heat to ensure the grates are hot enough to sear the meat. Once heated, clean the grates using a grill brush to remove any residues from previous grilling sessions.

Create Indirect Heat Zones

Cooking a bottom round roast requires both direct and indirect heat. Direct heat will sear the roast, while indirect heat will cook it evenly without burning. For a three-burner gas grill, keep the middle burner off and preheat the outer burners on medium-high. This setup creates an indirect heat zone in the middle where the roast will be placed for slow cooking.

Grilling the Bottom Round Roast

Now comes the exciting partgrilling! Start by searing the roast on all sides over direct heat. This process will take around 4-5 minutes per side, turning it to develop a nice crust. Once seared, transfer the roast to the indirect heat zone and close the grill lid.

Monitor the Internal Temperature

The key to a perfectly grilled bottom round roast lies in monitoring its internal temperature. Use a reliable meat thermometer to check the temperature. For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of 135F, while 145F is ideal for medium. Remember, the meat will continue to cook even after coming off the grill, so it's best to remove it 5F before reaching the desired temperature.

Resting the Meat

This step is often overlooked but is crucial. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the roast, making it moist and flavorful. Tent the roast with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This resting period can make a significant difference in the texture and taste of the roast.

Carving the Bottom Round Roast

The moment has arrived to carve and serve your masterpiece. Using a sharp knife and a sturdy cutting board, slice the roast against the grain. Cutting against the grain shortens the muscle fibers, making each bite tender and easy to chew. Serve the slices with your favorite sides, and don't forget to pour some of the delicious juices left on the cutting board over the meat for added flavor.

Pairing Suggestions

A well-cooked bottom round roast deserves the perfect accompaniments. Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a vibrant salad can enhance the overall meal experience. Additionally, pairing the roast with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot can add a sophisticated touch to your barbecue party.

The Final Touch

Your culinary adventure doesn't end here. To complete the process of how to cook bottom round roast on a gas grill, ensure you clean your tools and grill for the next grilling session. Here are some cleaning tools you might find useful: