Top 3 Prime Rib Alternatives That Make an Amazing Christmas Dinner
When prime rib is not in the cards this year, it doesn’t mean Christmas dinner loses its magic. Some of the best holiday meals come from switching things up. These three alternatives deliver the same “everyone goes quiet at the first bite” moment, each with its own personality and charm.
And because holiday cooking is always better when you’re not guessing, relying on internal temperature makes the whole process calmer and more predictable. A wireless meat thermometer like The MeatStick helps you cook with confidence while you focus on enjoying the day.
1. Beef Tenderloin
Wireless meat thermometer used in the picture: The MeatStick X
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 45 to 75 minutes total
Servings: 6 to 8
Lean, tender, and cooks fast. If you want something elegant without the long roasting time, this is the go-to.
What You Need
• 1 whole beef tenderloin, trimmed
• 2 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 2 tbsp butter or olive oil
• Optional: fresh rosemary
How to Cook
Preheat the oven to 250°F.
Rub tenderloin with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and butter/oil.
Insert your wireless meat thermometer into the thickest part.
Roast until internal temperature reaches 135°F for medium rare.
Let rest for 15 minutes.
Sear in a hot skillet or broil for 2 to 3 minutes per side for crust.
Why it works
Tenderloin cooks evenly and responds perfectly to low heat. Temperature control is everything here since it can overcook quickly. A wireless meat thermometer like The MeatStick helps you avoid that.
2. Strip Loin Roast (New York Strip Roast)
Wireless meat thermometer used in the picture: The MeatStick 4X Bundle
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2 to 3 hours
Servings: 6 to 8
Beefy, classic, and easier to carve than prime rib. Great flavor without the heavy fat content.
What You Need
• 4 to 6 lb strip loin roast
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder
• Olive oil
How to Cook
Preheat the oven to 225°F.
Season heavily and rub with oil.
Insert your wireless meat thermometer into the center.
Roast until internal temperature reaches 130 to 135°F for medium rare.
Rest 20 minutes.
Finish with a 500°F oven sear for 5 minutes.
Why it works
This roast behaves like a large steak. Gentle heat keeps the edges from drying out, and the final sear creates the perfect crust.
3. Pork Loin Roast
Wireless meat thermometer used in the picture: The MeatStick ChefX
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours (varies by size, roast at 300°F)
Servings: 6 to 10
A juicy, budget-friendly centerpiece that delivers big flavor when cooked to the right temperature.
What You Need
• 1 whole pork loin roast, 3 to 5 pounds
• 2 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp paprika
• Olive oil
How to Cook
Preheat the oven to 300°F.
Rub roast with oil and seasoning.
Insert your wireless meat thermometer into the thickest part.
Roast until internal temperature reaches 140 to 145°F.
Rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
Why it works
Pork loin is lean and dries out easily if overcooked. Temperature tracking keeps it tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked every time. A wireless meat thermometer makes this cut incredibly reliable for holiday cooking.
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