It’s the most wonderful time of the year… for food! As the holiday season approaches, many of us are already thinking about what to serve at our festive gatherings. And if you’re a meat lover like us, there’s no better centerpiece than a perfectly cooked piece of beef. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering Christmas beef recipes that are sure to impress your guests and satisfy their cravings.
From classic roasts and stews to more adventurous dishes like stuffed bell peppers and beef Wellington, we’ve got you covered with the most delicious and savory beef recipes for your holiday feast. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these tried-and-true recipes are sure to bring joy and cheer to your Christmas celebration.
Stay tuned for our top picks and start planning your menu today!
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast
Elevate your dinner party with this show-stopping prime rib roast, infused with the savory flavors of fresh herbs. This recipe yields a tender and juicy centerpiece for any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6-7 pound) prime rib roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the prime rib roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
5. Roast for 15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 20-30 minutes before slicing.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (depending on roast size)
Slow-Cooked Beef Bourguignon
This classic French dish is a hearty, flavorful stew that simmers all day, tenderizing the beef and melding the rich flavors of mushrooms, onions, and red wine.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove the beef from the pot.
2. Reduce heat to medium; add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot; bring to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the oven; cook at 300°F for 3-4 hours or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Garlic Butter Beef Tenderloin
Impress your guests with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter and the tenderness of beef tenderloin. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1-1.5 pound) beef tenderloin
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season the beef tenderloin with salt and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef tenderloin for 1-2 minutes on each side.
5. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the beef tenderloin, making sure to cover the entire surface.
6. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Christmas Beef Wellington
Elevate your holiday dinner with this classic Beef Wellington recipe, featuring tender beef filet wrapped in puff pastry and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 (1.5-2 pound) beef filet
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushroom duxelles (see note)
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the beef filet with salt, pepper, and garlic.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear the beef for 2-3 minutes per side. Let cool.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry to a large rectangle.
5. Place the cooled beef filet in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around it.
6. Spread mushroom duxelles over the beef, leaving a small border around the edges.
7. Brush the edges of the pastry with beaten egg; fold the pastry over the beef and press gently to seal.
8. Place Wellington on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper; bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Tender and flavorful short ribs smothered in a rich red wine sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the short ribs from the pot and set aside. Add the diced onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the short ribs to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Spiced Beef Pot Roast with Root Vegetables
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion, this spiced beef pot roast is infused with the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Simmered to tender perfection with a medley of root vegetables, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef pot roast
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1 cup root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, parsnips, and turnips)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season the beef with salt, pepper, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add root vegetables and enough liquid (stock or water) to cover the roast and vegetables.
6. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Peppercorn-Crusted Beef Roast
Elevate your Sunday roast game with this peppery twist on a classic beef roast. A blend of black, white, and green peppercorns creates a flavorful crust that adds depth to the tender beef.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 pound beef roast (such as prime rib or top round)
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon white peppercorns
– 1 tablespoon green peppercorns
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a spice grinder or mortar and pestle, combine black, white, and green peppercorns. Grind until coarsely ground.
3. Rub the peppercorn mixture all over the beef roast, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the roast and sprinkle with minced garlic.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Beef and Mushroom Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines tender beef, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy cheese with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion, mushrooms, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the beef mixture, followed by cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Drizzle tops with olive oil and cover baking dish with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cranberry Glazed Beef Brisket
Transform a classic beef brisket with the tartness of cranberries, creating a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors. This recipe yields a tender, juicy brisket glazed to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, honey, cranberry sauce, mustard, and garlic.
3. Season the brisket with salt and pepper.
4. Place the brisket in a roasting pan or Dutch oven and brush the glaze evenly over both sides of the meat.
5. Roast for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the brisket reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Rosemary Garlic Beef Kebabs
Elevate your outdoor cooking with these aromatic and flavorful kebabs, perfect for a summer gathering or weeknight dinner. The combination of tender beef, fragrant rosemary, and pungent garlic is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef sirloin or ribeye, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary. Add the beef cubes and toss to coat.
3. Thread the marinated beef onto the prepared skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Guinness Stew
Warm up with this hearty, comforting stew that combines tender beef, rich Guinness stout, and a depth of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Guinness stout
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown beef cubes in batches until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add Guinness, broth, thyme, allspice, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Add carrots and potatoes; continue simmering for another 30 minutes or until vegetables are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Christmas Beef Stroganoff
Add a touch of festive flair to your holiday dinner with this hearty and flavorful Christmas Beef Stroganoff recipe. This classic dish is sure to become a new family tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces sour cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 12 oz egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms to the skillet and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in beef broth, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Return cooked beef strips to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce.
7. Serve over cooked egg noodles and top with sour cream and parsley.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Maple-Glazed Beef Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of these tender and juicy beef ribs, smothered in a sticky maple glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and salt.
3. Place the ribs in a large baking dish, and brush with half of the glaze.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Remove foil and baste with remaining glaze.
6. Return to oven and cook for an additional 30 minutes or until caramelized.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Beef and Blue Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and savory recipe that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the boldness of beef and blue cheese. Perfect for a dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup blue cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add butter, onion, and thyme to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each mushroom cap with the beef mixture, followed by blue cheese crumbles.
5. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooker Beef Ragu with Pappardelle
This comforting dish is a perfect blend of tender beef, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Let the slow cooker do all the work for you as it simmers to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Add chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. In the slow cooker, combine browned beef, cooked onion mixture, beef broth, red wine, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions. Serve with the slow-cooked ragu.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours (depending on heat setting)
Beef and Caramelized Onion Tart
A savory tart that combines tender beef with sweet caramelized onions, perfect as an appetizer or main course for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound beef strips (such as ribeye or sirloin), sliced into thin strips
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface.
2. In a large skillet, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil and cook onions for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized.
4. Roll out puff pastry to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm). Arrange beef strips on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border. Top with caramelized onions and season with salt, beef broth, and balsamic vinegar.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with beaten egg for glaze.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Christmas Beef and Barley Soup
Warm up with this hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for the holiday season. Made with tender beef, nutty barley, and a medley of vegetables, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the barley, broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the barley is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Mustard and Brown Sugar Beef Roast
Transform your roast beef with the unique flavor combination of mustard and brown sugar. This sweet and savory twist will elevate your Sunday roast game.
Ingredients:
– 3 lbs beef roast (such as top round or rump)
– 2 tbsp whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mustard and brown sugar.
3. Season the beef roast with salt and pepper.
4. Rub the mustard-brown sugar mixture all over the roast, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the roast and sprinkle with garlic and thyme.
6. Place the roast in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
7. Roast for 2-3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to impress your loved ones with these 18 festive Christmas beef recipes. From classic prime rib roast to slow-cooked Bourguignon, there’s something for every palate and preference. Try garlic butter tenderloin or peppercorn-crusted roast for a show-stopping main course. For a twist on tradition, look to spiced pot roast with root vegetables or cranberry glazed brisket. These deliciously savory recipes are sure to make your Christmas dinner unforgettable.
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