Poor Man’s Prime Rib
This Easy Poor Man’s Prime Rib recipe offers a budget-friendly alternative to classic prime rib using affordable chuck roast. Slow-cooked and perfectly seasoned, it delivers tender, juicy beef with rich, savory flavors ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
- Author: Kathy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Meat and Broth
- 3 to 4 lb chuck roast
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings and Herbs
- 4 garlic cloves, minced or powdered equivalent
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped or whole sprigs for pressing onto roast
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Cooking Oil
- Prepare the Meat: Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels to ensure seasoning adherence. Generously rub the roast with salt, black pepper, onion powder, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Press fresh rosemary firmly onto the surface to infuse flavor during cooking.
- Sear for Flavor: Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully sear the roast on all sides until a golden-brown crust forms, locking in juices and intensifying flavor.
- Roast to Perfection: Transfer the seared roast to a roasting pan and pour beef broth around the meat to keep it moist during cooking. Roast in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C) for medium-rare doneness.
- Rest and Slice: Remove the roast from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes to allow juices to redistribute. Carve thin slices against the grain for tender, juicy servings.
Notes
- Choose chuck roast for its marbling and flavor, making it a great prime rib alternative.
- Do not skip the searing step to develop a flavorful crust.
- Use a meat thermometer to monitor internal temperature for perfect doneness.
- Rest the meat sufficiently to lock in juices before slicing.
- Baste occasionally with pan juices during roasting for added moisture and flavor.
- Variations include swapping herbs like thyme or oregano, adding crushed red pepper flakes for heat, using a slow cooker for a hands-off approach, marinating overnight in red wine and garlic, or serving low-carb with roasted vegetables.
- Leftovers store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze well up to 3 months.
- Reheat gently in a low oven covered with foil or in a skillet with beef broth to maintain moisture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 4 oz)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
Keywords: Poor Man's Prime Rib, Budget Beef Roast, Chuck Roast Recipe, Easy Prime Rib Alternative, Slow-Cooked Beef