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Christmas Prime Rib: A Festive and Flavorful Holiday Roast


  • Total Time: 4.5 -6 hours
  • Yield: 6-10 pepole 1x

Description

Make your holiday feast unforgettable with this Christmas prime rib recipe. Juicy, tender, and full of flavor, this festive roast is the perfect holiday centerpiece.


Ingredients

Scale

Prime Rib

  • 1 (6-8 pound) bone-in prime rib roast
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon dried rosemary (or 2 tablespoons fresh, finely chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme (or 2 tablespoons fresh, finely chopped)
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or softened butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Au Jus (Optional)

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (for thickening, if desired)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Prime Rib

  • Remove the roast from the refrigerator 2-3 hours before cooking to reach room temperature.
  • Pat the roast dry with paper towels.

2. Season the Roast

  • In a bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, and paprika.
  • Rub olive oil or butter over the roast, then coat evenly with the spice mixture.
  • Press minced garlic onto the roast. Drizzle Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor if using.

3. Preheat and Sear

  • Preheat oven to 500°F (260°C).
  • Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat-side up.
  • Roast for 15-20 minutes to develop a crust.

4. Reduce Temperature and Roast

  • Lower oven temperature to 325°F (163°C).
  • Roast for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches:
    • 120°F (49°C) for rare
    • 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare
    • 140°F (60°C) for medium
    • 150°F (65°C) for medium-well

5. Rest the Meat

  • Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil.
  • Let rest for 20-30 minutes for juices to redistribute.

6. Prepare the Au Jus (Optional)

  • Place roasting pan on stovetop over medium heat.
  • Add beef broth, red wine, and Worcestershire sauce, scraping browned bits.
  • Simmer 5-7 minutes. Stir in cornstarch slurry for thicker consistency.

7. Slice and Serve

  • Carve into thick slices and serve with au jus and horseradish sauce if desired.

Notes

  • Garlic Herb Crust: Add ½ cup grated Parmesan to the seasoning mix.
  • Reverse Sear Method: Slow roast at 225°F (107°C) until 10°F below target temp, then sear at 500°F (260°C).
  • Bone-in vs. Boneless: Bone-in offers more flavor and moisture; boneless cooks evenly and is easier to carve.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ 2-3 hours resting before cooking)
  • rising time: 20-30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2-3 hours (varies by size)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Roasting
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: prime rib, holiday roast, Christmas dinner, beef roast, festive recipe