INTRODUCTION
Ina Garten’s horseradish sauce for prime rib is a small mix with a big taste. It is creamy, bright, and has a sharp horseradish kick. You can make it in minutes with a few simple ingredients. This sauce lifts roast beef, steak, and sandwiches. If you enjoy easy recipes with strong flavor, you might also like the Javy coffee recipe for a cozy drink after dinner.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this sauce because it is quick and reliable. It uses common ingredients you likely have at home. The sauce adds heat without overpowering the meat. It is cool and creamy, which balances the warm, rich prime rib. You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge. The flavor keeps well and often gets better after a few hours. If you like light, bright sauces to pair with rich food, this recipe fits. For a warm herb drink to enjoy while cooking, consider a simple hormone balancing tea to sip nearby.
HOW TO MAKE Ina Garten Horseradish Sauce For Prime Rib Recipe
This sauce is a straightforward mix. You stir together sour cream and prepared horseradish. Add Dijon for depth and lemon for brightness. A bit of salt and pepper balance the flavors. Worcestershire gives a touch of savory umami if you want it. Finish with chopped chives for color and mild onion flavor. The steps are short and clear. You can tweak the heat by changing the amount of horseradish. For a small twist, try sipping a warm cup while you mix, like a creamy mushroom coffee if you like unusual blends.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Small mixing bowl.
- Spoon or small whisk.
- Measuring cups and spoons.
- Knife and cutting board for chives (optional).
- Airtight container for chilling.
You need nothing fancy. A fork works as well as a whisk. Use a small container so the sauce chills fast. While your sauce chills, you could prepare a cold drink like a pink coconut iced latte to serve guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need :
1 cup sour cream, ¼ cup horseradish, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, 1 tbsp lemon juice, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp pepper, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (optional), 1 tbsp chives (optional)
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
Mix sour cream, horseradish, Dijon, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire (if using).
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Chill at least 30 minutes.
Stir, garnish with chives, and serve with prime rib or steak.
HOW TO SERVE Ina Garten Horseradish Sauce For Prime Rib Recipe
Serve this sauce cold alongside hot prime rib. Spoon a small dollop on each slice so guests can add as much as they want. The cold cream and sharp horseradish cut through the rich meat. You can also pass a bowl of sauce at the table. This sauce works well with roast beef, roasted lamb, or a steak dinner. Try a small ramekin for each plate to keep portions tidy. For a light side, add a simple green salad and a warm roll.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Ina Garten Horseradish Sauce For Prime Rib Recipe
Store the sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to 4 days. The flavor will mellow and blend over time, often tasting better after a few hours. Do not freeze this sauce. Freezing changes the texture of sour cream and makes the sauce grainy. If you have leftover sauce, use it on sandwiches or baked potatoes within four days for best flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- With sliced prime rib on a carving board.
- Spoon on top of grilled steak or roast beef sandwiches.
- Use as a dip for roasted vegetables like carrots or parsnips.
- Add a spoonful to baked potatoes instead of sour cream.
- Serve beside a green salad to add a creamy bite.
Keep the sauce chilled until you serve it. You can decorate the bowl with a few whole chives or a light grind of black pepper for a neat look.
VARIATIONS
- Milder sauce: use less horseradish.
- Hotter sauce: add more prepared horseradish or a dash of horseradish cream.
- Herby sauce: mix in parsley or dill along with chives.
- Lighter sauce: swap half the sour cream for Greek yogurt.
- Richer sauce: add a tablespoon of mayonnaise for silkier texture.
Try a small change and taste as you go. If you like morning blends, a bold pick-me-up like a Java Burn recipe can keep you energized while you cook.
FAQs
Q: How spicy is this sauce?
A: The heat comes from prepared horseradish. Start with ¼ cup as written. Use less if you want mild heat. Taste and add more if needed.
Q: Can I use fresh horseradish instead of prepared?
A: You can, but fresh horseradish is stronger. Grate a small amount, mix, and taste before adding more.
Q: Can I replace sour cream with yogurt?
A: Yes. Use plain Greek yogurt for a tangier, thinner sauce. It will be less rich.
Q: How long should I chill the sauce?
A: At least 30 minutes. An hour is better. Chilling lets the flavors blend and the heat settle.
Q: Is Worcestershire necessary?
A: No, it is optional. It adds a touch of savory depth. Skip it if you prefer a simpler taste.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Ina Garten Horseradish Sauce For Prime Rib Recipe
Make the sauce a day ahead to save time. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Stir well before serving. If the sauce thickens a bit, add a small splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of water and stir to adjust texture. Keep chives separate until serving if you want a fresh look. If you plan to serve a large group, double the recipe and keep it chilled on ice in a bowl set inside a larger bowl of ice.
Conclusion
This Ina Garten horseradish sauce is simple to make and adds bright heat to rich beef dishes. It uses basic ingredients and needs little hands-on time. Make it ahead, chill it, and serve it with roast beef, steak, or sandwiches for a pleasing contrast of flavors. For another trusted take on horseradish and mustard-based sauces, see Barefoot Contessa’s Mustard Horseradish Sauce Recipe.

Horseradish Sauce for Prime Rib
Ingredients
Method
- In a small mixing bowl, combine sour cream, horseradish, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.
- Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Before serving, stir the sauce, garnish with chives, and serve cold with prime rib or steak.
