Christmas Prime Rib Recipe for a Juicy and Festive Roast

Christmas Prime Rib is the centerpiece of any holiday feast. This succulent roast is flavorful, tender, and sure to impress your guests. Its rich flavors and mouthwatering aroma create a welcoming vibe that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy this straightforward recipe for a festive dish that will make your holiday gathering unforgettable.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Prime Rib Recipe

There are several reasons to love this Christmas Prime Rib recipe. First, it’s simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it approachable for cooks of all skill levels. The prime rib roast turns out juicy and flavorful, thanks to the seasoning mixture that enhances its natural taste.

Christmas Prime Rib

A succulent and flavorful prime rib roast that is the centerpiece of any holiday feast.

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Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 50 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 8 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

For the prime rib

• 1 6-pound boneless prime rib roast
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme

For roasting vegetables

• 2 stalks celery, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 large carrot, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 small unpeeled onion, quartered and separated

For the au jus

• 2 teaspoons concentrated beef base (paste)
• 1.5 cups water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon water for cornstarch slurry

Instructions

 

Preparation

• Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Pat the roast dry with paper towels to help develop a crust.
• In a small bowl, mix horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the roast.
• Place the celery, carrot, and onion in the bottom of a roasting pan, and set the roast on a rack above them.

Cooking

• Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Continue roasting for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium rare, or 145°F for medium.
• Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes to retain its juices.

Making au jus

• Combine the beef base and 1 ½ cups of water in a saucepan; bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch and 1 teaspoon water) and whisk until slightly thickened.

Serving

• Slice the roast against the grain, drizzle with au jus, and serve with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

Notes

Always ensure to slice the roast against the grain for the best texture. Serve with classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes and warm rolls.

Keyword Christmas Prime Rib, Festive Meal, Holiday Roast, Prime Rib Recipe

The blend of horseradish and Dijon mustard creates a delicious crust while the vegetables roasted beneath the meat add depth to the flavor profile. Plus, serving prime rib adds an elegant touch to any holiday dinner, making it a festive and joyful occasion.

How to Make Christmas Prime Rib

Making Christmas Prime Rib is easier than you might think. Follow these steps to prepare a beautifully roasted prime rib that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 1 (6-pound) boneless prime rib roast
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons coarsely ground black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 stalks celery, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 carrot, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 small unpeeled onion, quartered and separated
• 2 teaspoons concentrated beef base (paste)
• 1 ½ cups water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon water

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Pat the roast dry with paper towels to help develop a crust.
2. In a small bowl, mix horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the roast.
3. Place the celery, carrot, and onion in the bottom of a roasting pan, and set the roast on a rack above them.
4. Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Continue roasting for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for rare, 135°F for medium rare, or 145°F for medium.
5. Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes to retain its juices.
6. Combine the beef base and 1 ½ cups of water in a saucepan; bring to a simmer. Stir in the cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch and 1 teaspoon water) and whisk until slightly thickened.
7. Slice the roast against the grain, drizzle with au jus, and serve with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted veggies.

How to Serve Christmas Prime Rib

Serving Christmas Prime Rib can be an enjoyable experience. Ensure the roast is sliced against the grain for the best texture. You can serve it on a large platter with the au jus drizzled over the slices. This beautiful presentation will surely wow your guests. Add sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, honey-glazed carrots, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a complete holiday meal. Don’t forget to offer warm rolls or bread to soak up the delicious juices!

How to Store Christmas Prime Rib

To store any leftover Christmas Prime Rib, let it cool completely before refrigerating. Wrap the slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can place them in an airtight container. Properly stored, the prime rib will last for up to three days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing the slices. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the oven.

Tips to Make This Recipe Perfect

• Use a Meat Thermometer: This handy tool ensures that your roast is cooked to your desired doneness. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding contact with bone.
• Let It Rest: Resting the roast is critical. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicy and flavorful roast.
• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to tweak the seasoning blend based on your preferences. Adding fresh herbs or a bit of lemon zest can create a unique flavor profile.
• Use a Rack: Elevating the roast on a rack allows for even cooking and helps develop a crust.

Flavor Variations

While the basic recipe is fantastic, consider these flavor variations to make your Christmas Prime Rib unique:

• Herb Crust: Add fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to your seasoning mix for an aromatic twist.
• Garlic Butter: Create a garlic butter paste and spread it on the roast before applying the horseradish and mustard for an even richer flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika into the seasoning mix for an extra kick.

Pro Tips for Success

• Choose high-quality meat for the best results. Look for well-marbled prime rib for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Start cooking with a clean, properly calibrated oven for even heat distribution.
• Allow the roast to come to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly and reduces cooking time.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

The Christmas Prime Rib recipe is a straightforward and delightful way to create a centerpiece for your holiday dinner. With its juicy texture, robust flavors, and ease of preparation, this roast is sure to impress your guests. Follow the tips provided, and don’t hesitate to get creative with flavors and sides. Make this Christmas memorable with a beautiful roast that brings family and friends together. Enjoy your festive meal!