Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?

A: Absolutely! Prime rib is the go-to, but sirloin and tenderloin are excellent options too.

Q: What if I don’t have fresh herbs?

A: Dried herbs work just fine—use half the amount since they’re more concentrated.

Q: What’s the best cut of beef for this recipe?

A: Prime rib is a top choice for its marbling and tenderness, but tenderloin or sirloin work beautifully too. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time for different cuts.

Q: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted?

A: You can, but reduce the additional salt in the recipe to avoid over-seasoning. Unsalted butter gives you better control over the flavor.

Q: How do I store leftover roast beef?

A: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Slice the beef before storing it to make reheating easier.

How to Make the Best Roast Beef with Garlic Herb Butter

The Real Deal on Holiday Dinners, Holiday Roast Beef with Garlic Herb Butter is a rich, savory dish infused with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, making it the perfect centerpiece for a winter celebration. Its tender, juicy texture combined with a golden-brown crust makes it an instant classic. Easy to prepare yet impressive enough for a festive gathering, this dish will elevate any holiday meal. Pair it with traditional sides or get creative with unique accompaniments to complete the experience.

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Roast Beef:

4–5 lbs beef roast (prime rib, tenderloin, or sirloin)
2 tbsp olive oil
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the Garlic Herb Butter:

1 cup unsalted butter, softened
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-Ons:

1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Instructions

Prepare the Beef: Bring the beef to room temperature for at least an hour. Pat it dry with paper towels and rub with olive oil. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
Sear for a Golden Crust: Heat a heavy skillet over high heat. Sear the beef on all sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Make Garlic Herb Butter: In a bowl, mix softened butter, garlic, herbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
Apply the Butter: Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the roast.
Roast to Perfection: Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in a preheated oven at 375°F, monitoring doneness:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
Rest and Slice: Remove from the oven, tent with foil, and let rest for 15-20 minutes. Slice and serve.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Allowing the roast to rest before slicing ensures juiciness.
Leftover butter can be used for bread, vegetables, or other meats.

Author: Anna Gomez
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American, Holiday
Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

Serving Size: per serving
Calories: 410
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 150mg
Fat: 31g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 31g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: holiday roast beef, garlic herb butter, Christmas dinner, holiday meal, festive beef recipe, prime rib, tenderloin roast, easy holiday dish, savory roast beef, garlic butter beef, elegant dinner, beef recipe, comfort food, winter recipes, family feast