Ah, “Poor Man’s Prime Rib”—a clever, budget-friendly way to enjoy the rich, juicy flavors of prime rib without the premium price tag! This dish typically uses a more affordable cut of beef (like chuck roast) and slow-roasts it with savory seasonings to mimic the tenderness and depth of prime rib. Here’s a classic version with a few chef’s tricks to maximize flavor:
Poor Man’s Prime Rib (Garlic-Herb Chuck Roast)
Serves 4–6
Ingredients
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1 (3–4 lb) chuck roast (bone-in for extra flavor, if available)
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2 tbsp olive oil or softened butter
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1 tbsp kosher salt
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1 tbsp coarse black pepper
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1 tbsp garlic powder
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1 tbsp onion powder
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1 tbsp dried rosemary (or 2 tbsp fresh, finely chopped)
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1 tbsp dried thyme (or 2 tbsp fresh)
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1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
Instructions
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Prep the roast: Pat the meat dry with paper towels (key for a good crust!). Rub olive oil or butter all over.
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Season generously: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, rosemary, thyme, and paprika. Coat the roast evenly, pressing spices into the meat.
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Slow-roast:
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Oven method: Place on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast at 275°F (135°C) for 3–4 hours (until internal temp reaches 135°F/57°C for medium-rare).
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Slow cooker method: Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 5–6 hours.
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Rest & serve: Let rest 15 minutes before slicing against the grain. Serve with pan juices or a simple horseradish sauce.
Why It Works
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Chuck roast: Marbled with fat, it becomes buttery-tender when slow-cooked.
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Low & slow: Breaks down connective tissue without drying out.
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Prime rib vibes: The garlic-herb crust mimics classic prime rib seasoning.
Pro Tip: For extra luxury, deglaze the pan with red wine or beef broth to make a quick au jus!
Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or Yorkshire pudding for the full experience. Enjoy your “fancy feast” on a budget! 🥩🔥
(P.S. Your vegetable soup sounds like the perfect side to balance this rich roast!)