Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce

Introduction

Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce is a show-stopping centerpiece that brings together tender, succulent meat with a bold, creamy kick of horseradish. This classic roast features a perfectly seared prime rib, slow-cooked to tender perfection, paired with a smooth, zesty horseradish sauce that cuts through the richness, adding a delightful balance of flavors. Each slice offers a melt-in-your-mouth experience, with a savory, beefy depth and a satisfying hint of spice.

I first made Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce for a holiday dinner where I wanted a dish that felt celebratory but still elevated the flavors to something extraordinary. The horseradish sauce adds a sophisticated edge, complementing the richness of the prime rib while delivering a burst of sharpness that enhances every bite. It’s a timeless, elegant dish that turns any gathering into a special occasion.

What I love about this combo is its simplicity and versatility. You can adjust the horseradish intensity to your liking—more for a fiery punch, less for a milder heat. Add some freshly cracked black pepper or a touch of garlic powder to the rub for an extra layer of flavor. Serve it alongside classic sides like roasted potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, or sautéed green beans to create a full, decadent feast. Whether for a holiday gathering, special dinner, or a weekend treat, Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce is a centerpiece that speaks of tradition, elegance, and irresistible flavor in every perfectly seasoned bite.

Perfect for:

Holiday dinners
Celebratory gatherings
Special occasions
Sunday roasts
Meat lovers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here are 10 reasons why Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce will be a go-to recipe for your special occasions:

Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture: Perfectly cooked prime rib is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.
Elegant Presentation: A beautifully roasted prime rib is a stunning centerpiece for any table.
Rich and Savory Flavor: Seasoned with herbs and garlic, every bite bursts with savory goodness.
Perfect Pairing: The creamy horseradish sauce balances the richness of the beef with a bright, tangy kick.
Customizable Doneness: Cook it to your preferred doneness—medium-rare, medium, or beyond.
Stress-Free Cooking: This recipe is straightforward, making it ideal for entertaining guests.
Impressive Results: Prime rib always feels luxurious and special, elevating any meal.
Leftover Friendly: Enjoy prime rib leftovers in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.
Crowd-Pleasing Dish: Loved by everyone, it’s a guaranteed hit at dinner parties.
Classic Yet Versatile: Simple to prepare while offering gourmet-level flavors.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 3 hours (including resting time)
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2-2.5 hours
Resting Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 8-10 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 700-750 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 50g, Fat: 48g, Carbs: 3g

Ingredients

For the Prime Rib:

1 (5-6 pound) bone-in prime rib roast
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons kosher salt
2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

For the Horseradish Sauce:

1 cup sour cream
3 tablespoons prepared horseradish (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional for garnish)

Ingredient Highlights

Prime Rib Roast: The star of the dish, offering tender, juicy, and marbled beef.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme elevate the flavor of the roast.
Prepared Horseradish: Adds the signature tangy kick to the sauce.
Sour Cream: Creates a creamy and smooth horseradish sauce.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Prime Rib:

Bring to Room Temperature: Let the prime rib roast sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours to ensure even cooking.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Season the Roast: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. Rub it generously with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
Roast at High Heat: Place the prime rib in a roasting pan, fat side up. Roast for 20 minutes at 450°F to create a flavorful crust.
Lower the Temperature: Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting for 1.5-2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 120-125°F (49-52°C) for medium-rare.
Rest the Roast: Remove the prime rib from the oven, tent it with foil, and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.

Make the Horseradish Sauce:

Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust horseradish to your preferred spice level.
Chill and Garnish: Refrigerate until ready to serve. Garnish with chopped chives, if desired.

Serve:

Slice and Plate: Carve the prime rib into thick slices and serve with a dollop of horseradish sauce on the side.

How to Serve

Here are 10 serving suggestions for Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce:

With Mashed Potatoes: Serve alongside creamy garlic mashed potatoes.
Over Yorkshire Pudding: Pair with traditional Yorkshire pudding for a classic British touch.
With Roasted Vegetables: Complement the dish with roasted carrots, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts.
With Red Wine Sauce: Drizzle red wine jus over the prime rib for added richness.
As a Holiday Meal: Perfect as the centerpiece for Christmas or Thanksgiving.
With Creamed Spinach: Add a side of creamed spinach for a creamy, savory pairing.
In Sandwiches: Use leftovers to make a prime rib sandwich with horseradish mayo.
With Baked Potatoes: Serve with baked potatoes topped with butter and chives.
For Special Occasions: Impress guests at birthdays, anniversaries, or fancy dinners.
With Fresh Salad: Pair with a simple arugula and parmesan salad for a refreshing contrast.

Additional Tips

Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the roast reaches your desired doneness for perfect results.
Let It Rest: Always allow the roast to rest to retain its juices and flavor.
Bone-In for Flavor: The bone enhances the prime rib’s juiciness and taste.
Adjust Sauce Spice: Add more or less horseradish depending on your heat preference.
Slice Against the Grain: Carve the prime rib against the grain for maximum tenderness.

Recipe Variations

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib: Add parsley and oregano for a herbaceous crust.
Peppercorn-Crusted Prime Rib: Coat the roast with crushed peppercorns for a spicy twist.
Au Jus Sauce: Serve with a homemade au jus made from the roast drippings.
Garlic Butter Rub: Mix softened butter with garlic and herbs to rub over the roast.
Mustard Glaze: Brush the roast with Dijon mustard for added tang.
Smoked Prime Rib: Use a smoker to infuse a smoky flavor into the meat.
Spicy Horseradish Sauce: Add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick.
Dry-Aged Prime Rib: Use dry-aged beef for an even more robust flavor.
Creamy Blue Cheese Sauce: Substitute horseradish sauce with a tangy blue cheese sauce.
Herb-Garlic Butter Sauce: Drizzle melted herb-garlic butter over sliced prime rib.

Special Equipment

Roasting Pan with Rack: To ensure even cooking and airflow.
Meat Thermometer: For accurate temperature monitoring.
Sharp Carving Knife: Essential for clean, precise slices.
Mixing Bowl: For preparing the horseradish sauce.
Aluminum Foil: To tent the meat while it rests.

FAQ Section

What is Prime Rib?
Prime rib is a succulent and tender cut of beef, known for its rich flavor and marbling.
What is Horseradish Sauce?
Horseradish sauce is a creamy blend of horseradish, sour cream, mayonnaise, and seasonings.
Can I use a different sauce instead of horseradish?
Yes! While horseradish sauce is a classic pairing with prime rib, you can also use au jus, béarnaise sauce, or a garlic butter sauce for a unique twist.
How do I cook the perfect Prime Rib?
The perfect prime rib is cooked by roasting it at a high temperature initially to create a crust, then lowering the temperature to finish cooking until the desired doneness (rare, medium-rare, etc.) is achieved.
What is the ideal doneness for Prime Rib?
The ideal doneness for prime rib is often medium-rare, which is about 130-135°F (54-57°C).
Can I prepare Prime Rib in advance?
Yes! You can season your prime rib a day in advance, wrap it, and store it in the refrigerator.
How do I make the horseradish sauce less spicy?
If you prefer a milder horseradish sauce, reduce the amount of horseradish used, and add more sour cream or mayonnaise to tone down the heat.
What sides pair well with Prime Rib and Horseradish Sauce?
Prime rib pairs wonderfully with sides like garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed green beans, roasted vegetables, and a fresh garden salad.
Can I use frozen Prime Rib, or is fresh better?
While fresh prime rib is ideal for optimal taste and texture, frozen prime rib can also work if properly thawed and cooked slowly at a low temperature.
How do I store leftover Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Conclusion

Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce is the epitome of a classic, elegant feast. A succulent, perfectly roasted prime rib, tender and juicy with a beautifully seared crust, is elevated with a zesty, creamy horseradish sauce that adds a punch of flavor and a touch of sophistication. It’s a show-stopping centerpiece that combines bold, savory richness with a subtle, tangy kick.

This dish is ideal for holiday dinners, special occasions, or any time you want to impress with a luxurious meal. The combination of tender meat, a golden crust, and a horseradish kick creates a balanced experience of flavors and textures that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and thirds). Pair it with roasted veggies, crusty bread, or a simple green salad for a well-rounded, memorable meal.

I can’t wait to see your Prime Rib with Horseradish Sauce! Share your photos on Instagram and tag me—I’d love to admire your delicious masterpiece. Don’t forget to leave a comment and let me know your personal touch on this classic feast—I’m always excited to hear your creative takes!