3 Easy Meats to Roast for Christmas Dinner (Besides Ham & Turkey!)
Looking to switch things up for your Christmas dinner this year? While ham and turkey are holiday classics, there are plenty of other delicious and easy-to-roast meats that can take your festive feast to the next level. If you’re ready to impress your guests with something a little different, try one of these three flavorful options: beef brisket, beef short ribs, or pork loin roast.
Each of these meats offers a unique twist on the traditional holiday meal while remaining easy to prepare and absolutely delicious! Plus, if you have a smaller gathering, these cuts are great options without all the time spent in the kitchen roasting turkey or ham.
1.Beef Brisket
A slow-roasted beef brisket is a tender, melt-in-your-mouth option that’s perfect for a cozy Christmas dinner. Known for its rich flavor and tender texture when cooked low and slow, brisket is ideal for feeding a crowd.
How to Roast:
- Start by seasoning your brisket with a generous rub of salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
- Sear the brisket on all sides in a hot skillet to lock in the juices.
- Transfer the brisket to a roasting pan or slow cooker and cook it low and slow at around 300°F for 3-4 hours, depending on the size.
- Add beef broth, red wine, or your favorite barbecue sauce to keep the brisket moist while roasting.
- When the meat is fork-tender and juicy, slice it against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Why It’s Perfect for Christmas: Brisket is hearty, rich, and makes for great leftovers, so you can keep the Christmas spirit going for days. It pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a side of creamy horseradish sauce!
Beef Brisket Recipes to Try This Holiday
2. Beef Short Ribs
If you’re craving something decadent and full of flavor, beef short ribs are a fantastic option. These meaty, bone-in ribs become incredibly tender when braised, making them a satisfying and impressive addition to your Christmas table.
How to Roast:
- Season the short ribs with salt, pepper, and a dry rub of your choice. Searing them in a hot pan will give the ribs a nice crust.
- Transfer the ribs to a Dutch oven or roasting pan and cover them with a flavorful liquid such as beef stock, red wine, or a combination of both.
- Add aromatic flavor like garlic, onions, and fresh herbs, then cover and cook at a low temperature (around 325°F) for 2-3 hours until the meat is falling off the bone.
- For an extra festive touch, you can finish the ribs with a balsamic glaze or a drizzle of red wine reduction.
Why It’s Perfect for Christmas: Beef short ribs are luxurious and incredibly tender, making them feel extra special for a holiday meal. Their rich flavor pairs beautifully with creamy sides like polenta, mashed potatoes, or roasted root vegetables.
Beef Short Rib Recipes to Try This Holiday
3. Pork Loin Roast
For a lighter yet equally delicious option, a pork loin roast is an excellent choice! This lean cut of meat is easy to prepare and can be dressed up with herbs, spices, or a flavorful glaze, making it a versatile and crowd-pleasing main dish.
How to Roast:
- Rub the pork loin with a mix of salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs like sage, rosemary, or thyme.
- For added flavor, stuff the roast with garlic and herbs, or coat it with a sweet and savory glaze made from ingredients like mustard, honey, or apple cider.
- Roast at 375°F for about 20 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Let the pork loin rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to retain the juices.
Why It’s Perfect for Christmas: Pork loin roast is tender, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted apples and sweet potatoes to a zesty cranberry sauce. It’s also a leaner option for those looking for a lighter holiday meal, while still being incredibly satisfying.
Pork Loin Recipes to Try This Holiday
Garlic Balsamic Pork Loin Roast
Roast to the Occasion
Beef brisket, beef short ribs, and pork loin roast are all excellent alternatives to traditional Christmas ham or turkey. Each offers its own unique flavor and texture, making them great choices for adding variety to your holiday feast. With their ease of preparation and crowd-pleasing appeal, these three meats will surely impress your guests and create a memorable Christmas dinner!
