A Delicious and Easy Guide to the Perfect Holiday Dinner in Just 120 Minutes!
The holidays are a time for gathering around the table, sharing laughter, and creating memories that last a lifetime. What better way to bring your family together than with a Classic Prime Rib Roast? This mouthwatering centerpiece is known for its tender, juicy texture and rich flavor an irresistible choice for any festive occasion. And guess what? It’s much simpler to prepare than you might think, even with kids in tow!
Cooking doesn’t have to be a stressful affair; this recipe will show you just how fun and rewarding family time in the kitchen can be. From seasoning the roast to watching it sizzle, your kids can jump in on the action and feel like mini chefs. Plus, with a prep and cooking time of just 120 minutes, you’ll have the perfect holiday feast ready without spending your entire day in the kitchen.
So, let’s dive into this simple yet impressive prime rib roast recipe that will become a cherished tradition for years to come!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you need to create the perfect prime rib roast:
For the Roast:
- 1 prime rib roast (bone-in, about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Optional Add-ons:
- 1 teaspoon paprika (for a smoky flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced (if you prefer fresh over powder)
- Gluten-free or low-sodium salt alternatives for dietary needs
For the Au Jus (Dipping Sauce):
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking with kids? Get ready to have some fun! These simple steps make it easy to include them, whether it’s sprinkling the seasoning, stirring ingredients, or decorating the table.
Step 1: Prep the Roast
1. Remove the prime rib roast from the refrigerator about 1 hour before cooking. This lets it come to room temperature for even cooking.
- Kid tip: Let your little ones help “pat dry” the roast with paper towels!
2. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
Step 2: Season the Roast
1. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme.
- Kid tip: Hand your kids a brush or spoon to “paint” the roast with the mixture. Fun and interactive!
2. Rub the seasoning mixture generously over the entire prime rib, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Step 3: Cook the Roast
1. Place the seasoned roast bone-side down in a roasting pan. If you don’t have a rack, the bones work as a natural one.
2. Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes to create a delicious crust.
3. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting for about 90 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches:
- 125°F for medium-rare
- 135°F for medium
- Cooking tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Your kids can “help read the numbers!”
4. Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 20 minutes this locks in all the juices.
Step 4: Make the Au Jus
1. While the roast is resting, place the roasting pan on the stovetop over medium heat.
2. Pour in beef stock and add Worcestershire sauce, scraping up any browned bits for flavor.
3. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly reduced.
Estimated Cooking & Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 105 minutes
- Rest Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 120 minutes
This makes it easy to plan your holiday meal, even on a busy schedule!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
For a 4-ounce serving of prime rib (without au jus):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Iron: 15% DV
Prime rib is rich in protein, iron, and essential nutrients, making it a hearty and nutritious meal. Pair it with some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded holiday feast!
Kid-Friendly Serving Ideas
Here are some creative ways to serve your prime rib roast to make the meal even more exciting for the kids:
1. Holiday Platter: Slice the roast into kid-friendly portions and serve it with mashed potatoes or roasted carrots.
2. Mini Prime Rib Sliders: Use small dinner rolls to make sliders with thin slices of prime rib and a dollop of horseradish mayo.
3. Fun Dips: Offer the au jus as a “dunking sauce” to make eating hands-on and fun!
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftover slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm slices gently in the oven at 300°F with a splash of broth to keep them juicy.
This Classic Prime Rib Roast recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity, flavor, and family fun. From seasoning the meat to slicing it for serving, every step offers an opportunity to bond with your kids and make kitchen memories together. Plus, with a cooking time of just 120 minutes, you can enjoy more holiday cheer and less stress!
Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or just preparing a cozy dinner at home, this prime rib roast is sure to impress. Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below.
Cooking with my boys always brings smiles to our kitchen. I hope this recipe does the same for you and your family! Don’t forget to share it with other parents looking for easy, delicious holiday recipes.
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