Honey baked ham prime rib is a stunning centerpiece for special occasions like Christmas, Thanksgiving, or Easter. When prepared properly, this impressive roast yields incredibly moist, tender meat coated in a glistening honey glaze.
Cooking honey baked ham prime rib may seem intimidating, but it’s actually quite simple with some key steps. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn expert tips for defrosting, seasoning, glazing and roasting prime rib for jaw-dropping results.
Overview of Honey Baked Ham Prime Rib
Honey baked ham prime rib combines two beloved dishes—the elegance of prime rib with the sweet flavor of honey baked ham. This showstopping roast consists of a whole prime rib that’s coated with a glossy glaze of honey, brown sugar and spices and then slowly roasted to perfection.
The prime rib is first seasoned generously with spices like garlic, mustard, and black pepper to infuse the meat with flavor. It’s then roasted low and slow which keeps the inside tender while forming a flavorful, caramelized crust on the exterior.
Towards the end of cooking, a sweet and sticky glaze made with honey, brown sugar, and mustard is brushed on top The glaze caramelizes into a shiny, lacquered coating that complements the savory, beefy flavor of the prime rib
Ingredients Needed
- 1 whole prime rib roast, about 4-6 pounds
- 1⁄4 cup honey
- 1⁄4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon ground ginger (optional)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps for perfect honey baked ham prime rib every time:
Step 1: Thaw the Roast
It’s crucial to thaw frozen prime rib completely before cooking. Leave it in the fridge for 24-48 hours depending on weight. Thawing in the microwave is not recommended as it cooks the edges.
Step 2: Prepare the Roast
Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Combine the garlic powder, pepper, salt and ginger. Generously season all sides of the roast with the spice mixture. For extra flavor, you can rub it with yellow mustard before applying the spices.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 250°F. This low temperature ensures the prime rib cooks slowly for a tender evenly cooked interior.
Step 4: Roast the Prime Rib
Place the seasoned roast bone-side down in a roasting pan. Cook for approximately 13 minutes per pound, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the thickest part reads 120°F for medium-rare doneness.
Step 5: Make the Glaze
In a small bowl, stir together the honey, brown sugar and mustard until smooth. After the initial roasting time, brush the glaze all over the top and sides of the roast.
Step 6: Finish Roasting
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F. Roast for 15-20 minutes more until the glaze is caramelized and the thermometer reads 135°F for medium-rare. The caramelized glaze should be sticky and glossy.
Step 7: Rest and Carve
Let the roast rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute. Carve across the grain into 1⁄2 inch thick slices. Serve warm with the pan juices spooned over the top.
Tips and Tricks
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For easier slicing, ask your butcher to remove the chine bone along the back.
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Cook times vary greatly by oven. Begin checking temperature early and increase cook time if needed.
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For a thicker glaze coating, apply a second layer halfway through glazing.
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Add apple juice or broth to the roasting pan to prevent burning and smoke.
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Cover loosely with foil if glaze browns too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Honey baked ham prime rib deserves flavorful side dishes like:
- Roasted potatoes or sweet potatoes
- Green bean casserole
- Scalloped potatoes or au gratin potatoes
- Fresh baked rolls or biscuits
- A green salad or spinach salad
No holiday meal is complete without delicious sauces and condiments like:
- Horseradish sauce, mustard, or mayonnaise for the meat.
- Cranberry sauce or compote
- Gravy made from the prime rib drippings
- Butter for spreading on rolls
Sliced prime rib also makes incredible sandwiches piled high on crusty rolls and slathered with toppings. Leftovers can be used in breakfast hash, omelets or even tacos.
With this easy honey baked ham prime rib recipe, you’ll have a showstopping centerpiece roast that’s sure to impress any guests. The combination of juicy, tender prime rib encrusted with sweet, spicy glaze is utterly irresistible.