Classic Christmas Prime Rib

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that will make your holiday dinner memorable, then let me share my beloved Classic Christmas Prime Rib recipe with you! This prime rib is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with rich flavors and tender meat that melts in your mouth. It’s perfect for family gatherings or any special occasion when you want to impress your loved ones.

I remember the first time I made this dish; the aroma filled the kitchen, and my family gathered around the table with eager anticipation. It’s such a comforting and festive choice that brings everyone together. So, whether you’re hosting a big holiday feast or simply treating your family on a busy weeknight, this prime rib will surely be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: The steps are simple, and even if you’re new to cooking, you’ll feel confident as you create this delicious dish.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a juicy prime rib! It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes dinner time extra special.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep some elements in advance, saving time on the day of your gathering.
• Rich and flavorful: The combination of herbs and seasonings ensures each bite bursts with comforting flavor.
• Perfect for any occasion: This dish shines during holidays but is equally delightful for any celebratory meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is one of the best parts of cooking! For this Classic Christmas Prime Rib, you’ll need just a few quality items that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Prime Rib

• 6-pound (2800g) prime rib or beef rib roast
• 3 tablespoons (30g) diamond kosher salt or 2 tablespoons (30g) morton’s kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon (6g) coarse black pepper
• 3 tablespoons (40g) olive oil

For the Broth

• 3 pounds (1360g) oxtails, neck bones, or meaty beef bones
• 1 teaspoon beef base
• 6 cups low-sodium beef stock
• 1/2 cup (120g) dry apple vinegar
• 5 cloves garlic
• 2 large carrots, chopped
• 3 ribs celery, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 tablespoon (13g) tomato paste
• 2 sprigs thyme
• 1 large bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Horseradish Cream Sauce

• 1 cup sour cream
• 5 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 1 tablespoon dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! You can tailor it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: If you’re looking for something different, try using a rib roast from a different cut of beef or even experimenting with lamb for an exciting twist.
• Change up the sides: Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes instead of traditional sides to shake things up.
• Add spices: For those who enjoy bold flavors, sprinkle in some smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to give your prime rib an extra kick.
• Try different sauces: Instead of horseradish cream sauce, serve it with chimichurri or a balsamic reduction for a fresh take.

How to Make Classic Christmas Prime Rib

Step 1: Prepare the Roast

Start by letting your prime rib come to room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Next, season generously with kosher salt and black pepper. The seasoning creates a beautiful crust and enhances the meat’s natural flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Roast

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned roast and sear each side until golden brown—about 4 minutes per side. Searing locks in juices and adds depth to the flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth

While your roast is searing, gather all broth ingredients in another pot. Add oxtails or beef bones along with garlic, carrots, celery, onion, tomato paste, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and beef stock. This broth infuses flavor into both the meat and sauce!

Step 4: Roast in Oven

After searing, transfer the skillet with your prime rib into the preheated oven. Roast for about 15 minutes at high heat before reducing to 325°F (165°C). Cook until desired doneness is reached—use a meat thermometer for accuracy!

Step 5: Resting Time

Once cooked to perfection (aiming for medium rare!), remove from oven and let rest covered loosely with foil for at least 20 minutes. Resting allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Step 6: Prepare Horseradish Sauce

While your roast rests, mix sour cream with prepared horseradish, dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and mayonnaise in a bowl. This zesty sauce complements the richness of your prime rib beautifully!

Now you’re ready to serve up this stunning Classic Christmas Prime Rib! Enjoy every moment around your table—it’s sure to be one filled with laughter and joy!

Pro Tips for Making Classic Christmas Prime Rib

Preparing the perfect prime rib is all about attention to detail and a little patience, so let’s make it an enjoyable experience!

• Choose Quality Meat: Select a prime rib from a reputable butcher or grocery store. High-quality meat ensures richer flavors and tenderness, making your holiday meal memorable.

• Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the kosher salt and black pepper. A generous seasoning not only enhances flavor but also creates a beautiful crust during roasting.

• Allow for Resting Time: After cooking, let your roast rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful slice of meat.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in a good meat thermometer to ensure your prime rib is cooked to perfection. Aim for an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium rare.

• Create a Flavorful Au Jus: Utilize the drippings from the roast along with low-sodium beef stock to create a delicious au jus. It adds moisture and depth to each bite.

How to Serve Classic Christmas Prime Rib

When it comes to serving your Classic Christmas Prime Rib, presentation matters just as much as flavor! Here are some delightful ideas that will impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh thyme or rosemary over the top to add color and aromatic appeal.
• Lemon Zest: A light sprinkle of lemon zest can brighten up the rich flavors of the beef while adding a touch of freshness.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide the perfect comfort alongside prime rib, soaking up all those delicious juices.

• Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, these roasted sprouts become crispy on the outside while remaining tender inside, making them an ideal complement.

• Honey-Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory honey-glazed carrots bring a lovely color contrast and sweetness that balances out the richness of the beef.

• Green Bean Almondine: Sautéed green beans tossed with toasted almonds offer a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with prime rib.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to hosting a delightful holiday feast centered around your Classic Christmas Prime Rib! Enjoy every moment spent with loved ones around the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic Christmas Prime Rib is not only a showstopper for your holiday table, but it’s also fantastic for meal prep. Preparing in advance means you can spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen on the big day!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Ensure the meat is cooled to room temperature before sealing.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a heavy-duty freezer bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight when ready to use.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
• Place the prime rib in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture.
• Heat until warmed through, approximately 20-30 minutes depending on thickness.
• For crispy edges, uncover during the last 5-10 minutes of reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making this recipe!

How do I make Classic Christmas Prime Rib tender?

To ensure your Classic Christmas Prime Rib is tender, let it rest after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful.

What sides pair well with Classic Christmas Prime Rib?

Classic sides that complement this recipe include creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a fresh green salad. These dishes balance out the richness of the prime rib beautifully.

Can I make Classic Christmas Prime Rib without beef stock?

Yes! You can substitute beef stock with vegetable broth or mushroom stock if preferred. Just keep in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly.

How long does it take to cook Classic Christmas Prime Rib?

Cooking a 6-pound prime rib generally takes about 3 hours at a low temperature for perfect doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check for desired doneness levels.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Classic Christmas Prime Rib! It’s truly special not only because of its rich flavors but also due to the wonderful memories created around the dinner table. Enjoy every slice and moment spent with family and friends. Happy cooking, and may your holidays be filled with warmth and delicious food!