Classic Roast Beef sliced medium-rare on a white platter with horseradish sauce, garnished with parsley, served with roasted potatoes and green beans.
The Classic Roast Beef with Horseradish is a timeless holiday dish that combines tender, juicy beef with a creamy, tangy horseradish sauce. Perfect for festive gatherings, this recipe is as elegant as it is comforting.


Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Classic Roast Beef with Horseradish:

For the Roast Beef:

  • 3-4 lb beef rib roast (bone-in or boneless)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped

For the Horseradish Sauce:

  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 tbsp prepared horseradish
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
  • Pinch of salt and pepper

For Garnishing:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Roasted baby potatoes and green beans (optional)


Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Seasoning the beef ensures a flavorful crust.

  • Method: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Pat the beef dry with a paper towel. Rub olive oil all over the roast, then season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary. Place the beef on a rack in a roasting pan.
  • Tip: Let the beef come to room temperature before roasting for even cooking.


Step 2: Roast the Beef

A perfectly cooked roast beef is tender and juicy with a medium-rare center.

  • Method: Roast the beef at 450°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (medium-rare) or your preferred doneness. Remove from the oven and let rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing.
  • Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy and avoid overcooking.


Step 3: Make the Horseradish Sauce

The tangy horseradish sauce complements the rich roast beef.

  • Method: In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
  • Tip: Make the sauce a day ahead to let the flavors meld.


Step 4: Plate with Festive Flair

Elegant plating makes this dish holiday-ready.

  • Method: Arrange slices of roast beef on a white platter, drizzle with pan juices, and place a dollop of horseradish sauce on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with roasted baby potatoes and green beans for a complete meal.

Why You’ll Love This Roast Beef

This dish is the perfect centerpiece for holiday feasts:

  • Rich and Tender: The beef is juicy and flavorful, with a crispy crust and tender center.
  • Elegant Yet Simple: The creamy horseradish sauce adds sophistication without complexity.
  • Holiday Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for impressing guests or creating memorable family dinners.

The Classic Roast Beef with Horseradish is a festive showstopper that combines elegance and comfort. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a special family gathering, this dish is sure to impress with its rich flavors and beautiful presentation.