My Foolproof Christmas Prime Rib (With Coke Au Jus)
- Angela
- Dec 23, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 23
Every Christmas, this is what's on our table.
No experimenting. No complicated recipes. No wondering if dinner is going to turn out. Just a perfectly cooked prime rib, creamy mashed potatoes, simple green beans, and an au jus so good everyone pours it over everything on their plate.
I've been making it this way for years, and it never disappoints.
The best part? The recipe couldn't be easier. I use a prime rib seasoning packet and a can of Coca-Cola to create the most flavorful, tender roast and an incredible au jus that's become part of our family's Christmas tradition.
If you're looking for a stress-free holiday dinner, this is it.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
My family's Christmas dinner every year.
Surprisingly simple to make.
Juicy, tender prime rib every time.
The Coke creates an incredible au jus.
Perfect for Christmas, New Year's, or any special occasion.
Foolproof and beginner-friendly.
What You'll Need
Roasting pan
Meat thermometer (the secret to perfect prime rib!)
Sharp carving knife
Cutting board
Ingredients
1 prime rib roast (4–6 pounds)
1 packet My Family's Prime Rib Seasoning (I usually find it at Publix.)
1 can Coca-Cola (regular, not diet)
How to Make Christmas Prime Rib
1. Bring the roast to room temperature.
Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator 1–2 hours before cooking.
2. Season.
Rub the entire roast generously with the seasoning packet.
3. Prepare the roasting pan.
Place the roast fat-side up in a roasting pan.
Pour the can of Coca-Cola into the bottom of the pan... not over the meat.
4. Roast.
Cook at 450°F for 20 minutes.
Reduce the oven to 325°F and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches:
120–125°F for rare
130–135°F for medium-rare
I always cook by temperature instead of time. Every roast is a little different, and a meat thermometer takes all the guesswork out of it.
5. Rest.
Let the roast rest for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
This step makes all the difference.
How to Make Coke Au Jus
Don't throw away those pan drippings!
While the roast rests:
Place the roasting pan over medium heat.
Skim off some of the fat if needed, but leave a little because that's where the flavor is.
Bring the liquid to a gentle simmer.
Scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
Taste and adjust.
If it's too rich, add a splash of beef broth.
If you want a little more depth, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Serve as-is or strain for a smoother au jus.
No flour.
No thickener.
Just a rich, savory sauce that's perfect for dipping.
What to Serve With Prime Rib
This is exactly how we serve it every Christmas.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Simple Green Beans
Fresh Dinner Rolls
Coke Au Jus
Make It Your Own
Add fresh rosemary or thyme to the roasting pan.
Roast onions alongside the meat.
Add garlic cloves for extra flavor.
Serve with creamy horseradish sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Leftovers make amazing sandwiches, steak and eggs, or French dip sandwiches the next day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Coke make the meat taste sweet?
No. It helps create a rich, flavorful au jus and adds caramelization, but the roast doesn't taste sweet.
Can I use Diet Coke?
I wouldn't. Regular Coca-Cola gives the best flavor.
Why cook by temperature instead of time?
Every prime rib roast cooks differently depending on its size and shape. A meat thermometer guarantees perfect results every time.
Can I make the au jus ahead?
It's best made fresh from the pan drippings while the roast rests.
A Few Final Thoughts
This recipe has become one of my family's Christmas traditions, and honestly, I can't imagine the holidays without it.
It's simple, dependable, and every year someone asks for the recipe before dinner is even over.
Those are the recipes worth keeping.
Thanks for stopping by The Schmidt Table. I hope this recipe finds its way to your table soon.
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