Savor the Season: Cranberry Balsamic Ribeye Roast Recipe for a Festive Feast

Photo byAngie Bright

As the chill of the season sets in and gatherings with friends and family become more frequent, there's nothing like a rich, flavorful ribeye roast to elevate the dinner table. Enter the Cranberry Balsamic Ribeye Roast—a dish that brings together the perfect balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. It’s the kind of recipe that transforms a simple dinner into a memorable occasion.

This ribeye roast is all about taking the classic elements of a holiday meal and giving them a vibrant twist. The tartness of cranberries paired with the deep, rich notes of balsamic vinegar create a mouthwatering marinade that seeps into the tender ribeye, making every bite a burst of flavor. Perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to a hearty meal, this dish is sure to become a seasonal favorite.

Recipe: Cranberry Balsamic Ribeye Roast

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Ribeye: In a large, resealable food storage bag, combine balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, cranberry sauce, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, salt, and olive oil. Mix well. Pierce the ribeye roast all over with a knife and place it in the marinade. Seal the bag and massage the marinade into the meat. Refrigerate overnight, turning the bag occasionally to ensure even marination.
2. Prepare for Roasting: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the roast from the marinade and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help achieve a good sear.
3. Sear the Roast: Heat the vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the ribeye and sear until it achieves a deep, golden-brown crust on all sides.
4. Roast with Flavor: Pour the remaining marinade into the pan along with 1/2 cup of beef broth, stirring to combine. Add the fresh cranberries and thyme sprigs, then transfer the skillet to the oven.
5. Cook to Perfection: Roast the ribeye for about 30 minutes per pound of meat or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. For a medium-rare finish, aim for an internal temperature of 135°F.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for about 15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy. Serve the slices with the cranberry balsamic pan sauce spooned over top.

A Meal Worth Sharing

This Cranberry Balsamic Ribeye Roast is perfect for any occasion, from a festive holiday meal to a cozy dinner at home. The balance of savory ribeye with the sweet and tangy cranberry balsamic marinade creates a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting.

For more recipes like this and additional inspiration, check out Moose Pattie's page here. From her kitchen to yours, she offers a wealth of culinary ideas to elevate your home cooking.

Gather your ingredients, invite some friends over, and let the flavors of this ribeye roast turn your next meal into a special occasion.