Cranberry Roast Beef: A Delicious Christmas Dinner Recipe

Cranberry roast beef brings a tangy-sweet twist to a holiday classic. Juicy ribeye pairs with tart cranberries, rich balsamic, and fresh thyme. Perfect for Christmas dinner, it’s hearty, festive, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cranberry roast beef recipe combines a tender ribeye roast with bold flavors that balance sweet, tangy, and savory. The ingredients are simple, but each one adds depth and richness. Using fresh cranberries and thyme gives the dish a seasonal touch, while the marinade makes every bite flavorful. Best of all, everything can be prepped ahead, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time at the table.

Main ingredients for the roast

• 3 to 5 pounds ribeye roast
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup cranberry sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste

Pantry staples and aromatics

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 2 cups fresh cranberries
• 6 sprigs thyme

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the ribeye overnight

Mix balsamic vinegar, garlic, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and olive oil in a resealable bag. Pierce the beef all over and place it inside. Massage the marinade into the meat, then seal the bag and refrigerate overnight. Turn the bag now and then to coat evenly. This step builds flavor and helps tenderize the roast.

Step 2: Prepare the oven and sear the beef

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the beef from the marinade, pat it dry, and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Heat vegetable oil in a large cast iron pan over medium heat. Sear the beef until browned on all sides. This creates a flavorful crust that locks in juices.

Step 3: Add marinade, broth, cranberries, and thyme

After searing, pour the reserved marinade into the pan. Add beef broth and stir to loosen any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Toss in fresh cranberries and sprigs of thyme. These will roast alongside the beef, creating a tangy-sweet pan sauce.

Step 4: Roast to perfect doneness

Transfer the pan to the oven. Roast the beef for about 20 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 140°F for medium-rare. Keep an instant-read thermometer handy to avoid overcooking. Remember that the roast will continue to cook slightly as it rests.

Step 5: Rest, slice, and serve with pan sauce

Once cooked, remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping each slice moist. Slice against the grain and serve with the cranberry-thyme pan sauce for a festive finishing touch.

Cooking Tips and Notes

Choosing the right cut of beef

Ribeye is flavorful and juicy, but you can also try prime rib or strip loin. Just adjust roasting times depending on the size and thickness.

Why marination time matters

An overnight soak lets the flavors of cranberry, balsamic, and garlic penetrate deeply. Skipping this step can leave the roast less flavorful.

Adjusting roast times by weight

Stick to about 20 minutes per pound for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy, as oven times can vary.

Serving suggestions for the holidays

Serve directly from the cast iron pan for a rustic look, or plate it beautifully on a platter. Pair with sides like Creamy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner or bright vegetables like Thanksgiving Glazed Carrots for balance.

Storage and Leftovers

How to refrigerate and reheat properly

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F, covered with foil, to prevent drying out.

Creative ways to use leftover roast beef

Slice thinly for sandwiches, fold into wraps, or add to salads for quick lunches. Leftovers also make a cozy beef-and-cranberry hash for breakfast.

FAQ About Cranberry Roast Beef

Related Recipes to try

• Stuffed Beef Tenderloin for a Holiday Dinner
• Orange Chicken Roast with Fennel and Shallots
• Classic Christmas Prime Rib
• Creamy Scalloped Potatoes for Christmas Dinner
• Cranberry Cream Cheese Crescent Bites
• Thanksgiving Glazed Carrots

Conclusion

Why cranberry roast beef is the ultimate holiday centerpiece

This cranberry roast beef combines tender meat, a sweet-tart sauce, and fragrant herbs for a show-stopping Christmas dinner. Every bite tastes festive and comforting.

Encouragement to try and share the recipe

Try this recipe for your next holiday feast and watch how quickly the platter disappears. For more festive inspiration, you can also find holiday-ready dishes on Pinterest. Gather friends and family, slice into this juicy roast, and enjoy a meal that’s both special and unforgettable.

Print