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Poor Man’s Prime Rib

Poor Man's Prime Rib

Easy Poor Man’s Prime Rib is a budget-friendly roast featuring juicy, tender chuck roast with a flavorful herb rub and a golden crust that mimics traditional prime rib. Perfect for special occasions or cozy dinners, it uses simple ingredients and straightforward cooking methods to create an impressive, comforting meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Chuck roast (3-4 pounds)
  • Garlic cloves (4-5, minced)
  • Rosemary (fresh, 1 tablespoon)
  • Thyme (fresh, 1 tablespoon)
  • Salt (to taste)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Beef broth or water (1 cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Roast: Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels to ensure a great crust. Combine minced garlic, fresh rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and olive oil to create a flavorful rub. Rub this mixture all over the roast, pressing it in so every inch is coated.
  2. Sear the Meat: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides for about 3-4 minutes per side until a rich, dark brown crust forms. This step locks in juices and builds deep flavor.
  3. Roast in the Oven: Place the seared roast on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour beef broth or water into the pan to keep the roast moist and catch drippings. Roast in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
  4. Rest and Serve: Remove the roast from the oven and loosely tent it with foil. Let it rest for 15-20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy slices. Slice against the grain and serve.

Notes

  • Let the chuck roast sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even roasting.
  • Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature and avoid overcooking.
  • Rest the roast after cooking to keep the meat juicy.
  • Searing the meat well creates the signature crust that mimics traditional prime rib.
  • Save the pan drippings to make a flavorful gravy.

Nutrition

Keywords: Poor Man's Prime Rib, budget roast, chuck roast recipe, easy prime rib alternative, simple roast beef