There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm, hearty meal that fills both your stomach and your soul. Savory Prime Rib Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls are the perfect dish for cozy evenings at home, special family dinners, or festive holiday gatherings. Imagine tender, perfectly cooked prime rib nestled atop a bed of creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes, finished with a drizzle of rich, savory gravy. Each bite delivers a luxurious combination of flavors and textures that feels indulgent yet homey.
The inspiration for this recipe comes from classic comfort food traditions, where family meals are about warmth, togetherness, and deliciously satisfying dishes. By combining tender prime rib with creamy garlic mashed potatoes in a convenient, bowl-friendly presentation, this recipe brings elegance to your table without any fuss. Whether you’re preparing a celebratory dinner or simply craving a filling, flavorful meal, these bowls are guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Prime Rib:
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2–3 lb prime rib roast
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tsp kosher salt
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp paprika
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1 tsp dried thyme
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2 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
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4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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4 cloves garlic, peeled
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½ cup unsalted butter
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½ cup whole milk (adjust for desired creaminess)
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½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
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¼ tsp black pepper
For the Gravy:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth
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Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
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Chopped fresh parsley
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Sautéed mushrooms
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Caramelized onions
Directions
Prepare the Prime Rib
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Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
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In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme with olive oil to create a flavorful paste.
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Rub the seasoning mixture all over the prime rib, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
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Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan and roast at 450°F for 15 minutes to sear the outside.
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Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting for 1–1.5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
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Remove the roast from the oven, tent with foil, and let it rest for 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Make the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
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In a large pot, cover the peeled and cubed potatoes and garlic cloves with cold water. Add a pinch of salt.
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Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 15–20 minutes.
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Drain the potatoes and garlic, returning them to the pot.
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Add butter and mash until smooth.
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Gradually add milk, mashing until creamy and fluffy.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Prepare the Gravy
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In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
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Whisk in flour to form a roux and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
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Gradually whisk in beef broth, ensuring no lumps remain.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
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Season with salt and black pepper.
Assemble the Bowls
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Spoon a generous portion of garlic mashed potatoes into each bowl.
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Slice the rested prime rib and layer it atop the mashed potatoes.
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Drizzle warm gravy over the top.
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Add optional toppings such as chopped parsley, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions for extra flavor and presentation.
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Serve immediately while warm.
Tips for the Perfect Prime Rib Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls
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Choose quality beef: The key to a tender and flavorful prime rib is selecting a well-marbled cut.
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Don’t skip resting the meat: Allowing the prime rib to rest helps retain juices and ensures a juicy roast.
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Garlic flavor balance: Roast garlic for a sweeter, milder flavor or leave raw garlic in mashed potatoes for a punchier taste.
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Make ahead: Mashed potatoes can be prepared a day in advance and reheated with a splash of milk to maintain creaminess.
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Customize your bowls: Add roasted vegetables like carrots or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition and color.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use leftover prime rib for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover prime rib is actually perfect for these bowls. The tender, flavorful meat can be easily repurposed, giving your leftovers a delicious second life. Simply slice the cold roast into bite-sized pieces, making sure the slices are even so they reheat uniformly. You can gently warm the meat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture, or use a microwave on low power to prevent it from drying out. Once reheated, layer the slices over freshly made garlic mashed potatoes and drizzle with warm gravy for a comforting meal that feels freshly prepared. This approach not only saves time but also reduces food waste, making it an ideal solution after holiday dinners or special occasions. Even those who didn’t participate in the original feast will be amazed at how delicious leftover prime rib can taste when transformed into a hearty bowl.
2. Can I make garlic mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, garlic mashed potatoes can be made ahead of time without compromising their creamy texture or rich flavor. After cooking and mashing the potatoes with garlic, butter, and milk, allow them to cool slightly before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave. To restore their smooth, creamy consistency, stir in a little extra milk or a pat of butter while reheating. Preparing the mashed potatoes in advance not only makes assembling your Prime Rib Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls faster and stress-free, but it also allows you to focus on cooking the prime rib and preparing any sides for your meal. This is especially convenient for entertaining or busy weeknight dinners.
3. How can I adjust the mashed potatoes for extra creaminess?
For the ultimate creamy mashed potatoes, you can adjust the ingredients and technique. Substitute part or all of the milk with heavy cream, or add a dollop of sour cream for richness and tang. Using room-temperature butter helps it blend smoothly into the potatoes, while mashing by hand with a potato masher or a ricer avoids overworking the starches, which can make the potatoes gluey. Whipping too vigorously or using a food processor can result in a sticky texture, so it’s best to mash gently and gradually incorporate the liquid ingredients. For added flavor, roasted garlic or a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper can elevate the dish and complement the savory prime rib.
4. Can I substitute other cuts of beef for prime rib?
While prime rib is ideal for its tenderness, flavor, and presentation, you can use other cuts of beef if desired. Ribeye roast is a close alternative, offering similar marbling and richness. Well-marbled sirloin or even a top-round roast can work, though these cuts may require adjustments to cooking time and temperature to achieve the perfect level of doneness. Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, aiming for your preferred level of doneness—medium-rare at 130°F (54°C) is recommended for maximum tenderness. Pairing any substitute cut with the creamy garlic mashed potatoes and savory gravy ensures that each bowl remains flavorful, indulgent, and satisfying.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe combines several classic comfort food elements into a single, satisfying meal. The creamy garlic mashed potatoes act as the perfect base for the tender, flavorful prime rib, while the rich, savory gravy ties everything together. The bowl format makes serving easy and visually appealing, perfect for a family dinner or a casual dinner party.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it also allows for customization. You can add seasonal vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate the presentation. The recipe’s flexibility makes it perfect for weeknight meals or holiday feasts alike.
Storage and Leftovers
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Refrigerating: Store leftover mashed potatoes and sliced prime rib separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
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Freezing: Mashed potatoes freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently, adding a little milk or butter to restore creaminess.
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Reheating: Reheat both the meat and mashed potatoes over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Avoid high heat to prevent drying out the meat.
Serving Suggestions
These bowls can be served as a complete meal on their own or paired with light sides for added variety:
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Roasted vegetables: Carrots, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts add color and crunch.
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Simple green salad: A crisp salad with vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.
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Dinner rolls or crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up extra gravy.
Why You’ll Love Making This Recipe
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Easy to assemble: Even with multiple components, the recipe is straightforward and forgiving.
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Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or holiday meals.
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Flexible: Works with leftover meat or alternative cuts of beef.
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Comfort food at its finest: Combines indulgent flavors with a homey presentation.
This recipe transforms a classic meat-and-potatoes dinner into a memorable, flavorful experience. Each bite delivers a harmony of tender beef, creamy potatoes, and rich gravy that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Final Thoughts
Savory & Delicious Prime Rib Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls are more than just a meal—they’re an experience. They bring warmth to the table, satisfy cravings for hearty comfort food, and make any occasion feel special. From the first bite to the last, the combination of tender prime rib, creamy garlic mashed potatoes, and savory gravy will leave your taste buds delighted and your guests impressed.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself to a special dinner, this recipe is a go-to for indulgent comfort food that’s both satisfying and shareable. Try it today and discover why this dish is destined to become a favorite for cozy evenings, festive dinners, or any time you want to enjoy a flavorful, comforting meal.
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Savory & Delicious Prime Rib Garlic Mashed Potato Bowls
Description
These hearty bowls combine tender, juicy prime rib with creamy garlic mashed potatoes and rich, savory gravy. Perfect for cozy family dinners, festive gatherings, or any special occasion, this dish brings comfort and elegance to your table. Each bite offers a luxurious mix of flavors and textures that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
For the Prime Rib:
-
2–3 lb prime rib roast
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tsp kosher salt
-
1 tsp black pepper
-
1 tsp paprika
-
1 tsp dried thyme
-
2 tbsp olive oil
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
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4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
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4 cloves garlic, peeled
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½ cup unsalted butter
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½ cup whole milk
-
½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
For the Gravy:
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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2 tbsp all-purpose flour
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2 cups beef broth
-
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
-
Chopped fresh parsley
-
Sautéed mushrooms
-
Caramelized onions
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
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Mix minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and olive oil to form a paste.
-
Rub the seasoning all over the prime rib.
-
Place roast on a rack in a roasting pan; roast 15 minutes at 450°F.
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Reduce oven to 325°F (165°C) and roast 1–1.5 hours until internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
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Remove roast, tent with foil, rest 15–20 minutes, then slice.
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Boil potatoes and garlic in salted water until tender, 15–20 minutes.
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Drain, return to pot, add butter, and mash. Gradually add milk until creamy; season with salt and pepper.
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Melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour, cook 1–2 minutes. Gradually whisk in beef broth, simmer 5 minutes until thickened; season with salt and pepper.
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Assemble bowls: spoon mashed potatoes, layer sliced prime rib, drizzle with gravy, and add optional toppings. Serve warm.
Notes
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Use a well-marbled prime rib for maximum tenderness.
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Rest the roast to retain juices and enhance flavor.
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Make mashed potatoes ahead to save time; reheat gently with a little milk.
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Customize bowls with roasted vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.
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Leftover prime rib works perfectly; reheat gently before serving.



