If you want to elevate your holiday feast, this Christmas Prime Rib Recipe is guaranteed to be the star of your Christmas dinner table. Juicy, perfectly seasoned, and boasting a beautiful herb crust, this bone-in prime rib roast is easy to prepare but delivers that unforgettable rich, tender flavor everyone will rave about. From the fragrant garlic and fresh rosemary to the subtle peppery kick, every bite feels like a decadent celebration of festive warmth and comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret to a memorable Christmas Prime Rib Recipe lies in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role: the prime rib provides robust flavor and tenderness, fresh herbs add fragrant earthiness, and seasoning enhances every natural note to bring this dish to life.
- Bone-in prime rib roast (5–7 lbs, 3–4 ribs): This cut is essential for that juicy, tender, show-stopping centerpiece.
- Olive oil or softened butter (3 tablespoons): Helps the herbs and seasonings cling while adding richness and promoting a golden crust.
- Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Infuses the roast with aromatic pungency and depth.
- Fresh rosemary (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds piney, savory undertones that perfectly complement beef.
- Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped): Offers a subtle herbal brightness to lift the flavors.
- Salt (1 tablespoon): Essential for seasoning and drawing out the beef’s natural juices.
- Black pepper (2 teaspoons): Delivers a gentle heat and sharpness against the savory backdrop.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Provides a mild sweetness and umami complexity.
- Horseradish cream or au jus (optional, for serving): Perfect finishing touches that add creaminess or savory richness on the side.
How to Make Christmas Prime Rib Recipe
Step 1: Bring the Roast to Room Temperature
Start by removing your prime rib from the refrigerator about an hour before cooking. This step ensures even cooking throughout the roast, avoiding any cold spots in the center so you get that perfect doneness every time.
Step 2: Prepare the Herb and Garlic Rub
Mix together olive oil or softened butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and onion powder in a small bowl. This fragrant blend will infuse your prime rib with layers of flavor and form the signature herb crust everyone loves.
Step 3: Season the Roast Thoroughly
Pat the roast dry with paper towels to get rid of any moisture, which helps with browning. Then generously rub the herb mixture all over the meat, making sure to cover all sides and even work some of the mixture between the ribs if you can. This is where the magic starts—a beautifully seasoned exterior ready to roast.
Step 4: Roast the Prime Rib at High Heat
Place the roast bone-side down in your roasting pan or on a rack inside a large baking dish. Pop it into a 450°F oven for 20 minutes to create a lovely crust. This high-heat blast caramelizes the outside, locking in juices and flavor.
Step 5: Continue Roasting at a Lower Temperature
After the initial sear, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F and roast for about 15–20 minutes per pound, depending on your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature: aim for 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, or 140°F for medium. Patience here rewards you with tender, juicy results.
Step 6: Rest Before Carving
Once your Christmas Prime Rib Recipe has reached the perfect temperature, remove it from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20 to 30 minutes. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, ensuring that every slice is bursting with flavor and moisture.
How to Serve Christmas Prime Rib Recipe
Garnishes
Adding simple garnishes can really elevate your presentation and dining experience. Fresh rosemary sprigs or a sprinkle of chopped thyme on the platter tie in the flavors from the roast itself while giving it a festive, elegant look. A dollop of horseradish cream provides a zesty punch that contrasts beautifully with the rich beef.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted brussels sprouts, or honey-glazed carrots complement this prime rib perfectly. The indulgence of buttery potatoes and the slight bitterness of greens create balance and color on your plate, enhancing the overall holiday vibe.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable Christmas dinner, carve the prime rib tableside and serve on a large wooden board garnished with fresh herbs and surrounded by smaller bowls of au jus and horseradish cream. This interactive presentation not only looks stunning but also invites your guests to customize their plates with their favorite sauces.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow any leftover prime rib to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator and consume within 3 to 4 days to enjoy the best flavors and safe freshness.
Freezing
If you want to save the roast for later, slice it first for easier thawing and portioning. Wrap slices individually or in meal-sized packs using freezer-safe bags or airtight containers. Frozen prime rib will maintain quality for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat without drying it out, place the slices in a covered baking dish with a splash of beef broth or water, and warm gently in a 250°F oven until heated through. This slow reheating helps retain moisture and tenderness.
FAQs
Can I prepare the Christmas Prime Rib Recipe a day before cooking?
Absolutely! Seasoning your roast the day before and letting it rest uncovered in the fridge is a fantastic way to dry-brine the meat, which enhances flavor and helps develop an even better crust during cooking.
How do I know when the prime rib is cooked perfectly?
Using a meat thermometer is the best way to achieve your desired doneness. Aim for 120°F internal temperature for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, and 140°F for medium. Keep in mind the roast will continue to cook slightly as it rests.
What is the best cut for this Christmas Prime Rib Recipe?
A bone-in prime rib roast with 3 to 4 ribs weighing between 5 to 7 pounds is ideal. The bones add flavor and help the roast cook more evenly, resulting in a juicier, more tender final dish.
Can I use butter instead of olive oil in the rub?
Yes! Softened butter works beautifully and adds richness to the herb crust. Olive oil is just a lighter alternative, so choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.
What should I serve alongside prime rib for a complete holiday meal?
Traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and a crisp green salad pair wonderfully. Adding au jus or horseradish cream sauces will tie everything together perfectly for a festive feast.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with family and friends and sharing a meal as special as this Christmas Prime Rib Recipe. Its straightforward preparation, beautiful flavors, and impressive presentation make it a holiday favorite that’s sure to become a cherished tradition. So roll up your sleeves, give this recipe a try, and watch it become the highlight of your Christmas celebration for years to come.
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Christmas Prime Rib Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour to bring to room temperature)
- Cook Time: 2 to 2½ hours
- Total Time: 3 hours (including resting)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Christmas Prime Rib recipe delivers a juicy, flavorful bone-in rib roast seasoned with garlic, fresh herbs, and spices. Perfectly roasted to a crisp crust and tender interior, it’s an ideal main course for holiday celebrations, served with horseradish cream or au jus for added richness.
Ingredients
Prime Rib Roast
- 1 (5–7 lb) bone-in prime rib roast (3–4 ribs)
Herb Rub
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or softened butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Serving
- Horseradish cream or au jus
Instructions
- Bring to Room Temperature: Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator at least 1 hour before cooking to ensure even roasting.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to prepare for roasting.
- Prepare Herb Rub: In a small bowl, combine olive oil or softened butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, black pepper, and onion powder to create a flavorful rub.
- Season the Roast: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. Rub the herb mixture all over the roast, including the sides and between the bones if accessible, ensuring thorough coverage.
- Roast at High Heat: Place the roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan or baking dish. Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes to develop a rich, crispy crust.
- Roast at Lower Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting for approximately 15 to 20 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature for your desired doneness: 120°F (49°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, or 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Rest the Meat: Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and tender final product.
- Carve and Serve: Slice the prime rib and serve with horseradish cream, au jus, or your preferred holiday sides for a complete festive meal.
Notes
- Always use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge doneness and avoid overcooking.
- For enhanced flavor, season the roast the day before and refrigerate uncovered overnight to dry-brine the meat.
- Letting the roast rest after cooking is essential for juicy slices.
- Adjust cooking time according to the size of the roast and your preferred level of doneness.
