There’s something truly magical about cozy holiday meals, isn’t there? The warmth of the kitchen, the smell of delicious food wafting through the air, and the joy of sharing it all with someone special makes the season feel extra special. This Christmas, why not create an intimate atmosphere right at home with my simple yet special *Christmas dinner for two*? Picture perfectly seared ribeye steaks paired with tender Brussels sprouts and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s not just a meal; it’s a moment to savor together, filled with flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Trust me, this dinner is not only easy to prepare but also feels indulgent enough to celebrate the holiday spirit. Let’s dive into the recipe that will surely warm your hearts and bellies!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delightful *Christmas dinner for two*. Each ingredient plays its part in creating a cozy and delicious meal, so let’s gather them all before we begin!
- 2 ribeye steaks, seasoned with salt and pepper
- 2 cups of Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved for even roasting
- 1 cup of mashed potatoes, prepared to your liking (creamy, buttery, you name it!)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil, for that perfect sear
- Salt and pepper to taste, because seasoning is key!
- 2 sprigs of rosemary, fresh if you can, for that aromatic touch
That’s it! Simple, right? With these ingredients, you’re on your way to a delightful dinner that feels like a festive feast without all the fuss!
How to Prepare Instructions
Let’s get cooking! This process is straightforward, and I promise it’ll fill your home with mouthwatering aromas. First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for roasting those Brussels sprouts to perfection!
While the oven is heating up, season your ribeye steaks generously with salt, pepper, and those lovely sprigs of rosemary. It’s amazing how these simple seasonings can elevate the flavor! Now, grab a skillet and heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot but not smoking, so keep an eye on it.
Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the steaks in the skillet. Sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. This creates that beautiful crust we all love! After they’re seared, transfer the skillet straight into the preheated oven. Let them cook for an additional 5-7 minutes for a perfect medium-rare finish. Don’t forget: letting them rest for about 5 minutes after cooking is key! This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicy steak.
While the steaks are roasting, toss those halved Brussels sprouts onto a baking sheet, drizzle with a touch of olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Pop them in the oven about 20 minutes before everything is ready, and give them a good shake halfway through for even roasting.
Meanwhile, whip up your mashed potatoes according to your preference—creamy, fluffy, or somewhere in between! Once everything’s ready, plate your delicious ribeye steaks alongside the roasted Brussels sprouts and a generous serving of mashed potatoes. Your cozy Christmas dinner for two is now complete!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a cozy night in.
- Delicious flavors from perfectly seasoned ribeye steaks and roasted Brussels sprouts.
- Intimate dining experience that allows you to connect over a special meal.
- Comforting mashed potatoes that add a touch of home to your holiday table.
- Simple ingredients that create a meal that feels fancy without the fuss.
Tips for Success
To ensure your *Christmas dinner for two* turns out absolutely perfect, here are a few pro tips I swear by! First, let your steaks come to room temperature before seasoning. This helps them cook more evenly. When you’re searing, make sure your skillet is hot enough—this is key for that lovely crust! If you prefer your steaks medium, aim for about 6-8 minutes in the oven instead of 5-7.
Don’t rush the resting time after cooking; it makes all the difference in juiciness! For the Brussels sprouts, keep an eye on them towards the end—if they start to brown too much, give them a quick stir. Lastly, feel free to customize your mashed potatoes with garlic or herbs for an extra flavor boost. Enjoy the process, and remember, it’s all about creating a lovely meal together!
Variations
If you’re in the mood to mix things up a bit or just want to add your personal touch to this *Christmas dinner for two*, I’ve got some delightful variations for you! First off, consider swapping out the ribeye steaks for a couple of juicy filets or even chicken breasts for a lighter option. Both will still be incredibly tasty!
For the sides, why not try roasted sweet potatoes instead of mashed? They add a lovely sweetness that complements the savory steaks beautifully. You could also throw in some garlic or balsamic glaze with the Brussels sprouts for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re feeling festive, add a sprinkle of pomegranate seeds on top for a pop of color and sweetness!
And don’t forget about herbs! Thyme or sage could be great alternatives to rosemary, giving your dish a slightly different aroma and taste. Get creative and have fun with it—after all, it’s all about making this meal uniquely yours!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers from your cozy *Christmas dinner for two*? No worries, they can be just as delicious the next day! Start by letting everything cool down to room temperature. Then, store your ribeye steaks, Brussels sprouts, and mashed potatoes in separate airtight containers. This helps retain their flavors and textures. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days.
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key! For the steaks, I recommend gently warming them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or a bit of butter to keep them juicy. The Brussels sprouts can go in the oven or a skillet as well—just a few minutes should do! As for the mashed potatoes, pop them in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive their creaminess. With these tips, your delicious meal will taste like new!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to savoring your *Christmas dinner for two*, it’s always good to know what you’re enjoying! Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values per serving:
- Calories: 700
- Fat: 45g
- Protein: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fiber: 5g
These values are estimates and can vary based on preparation methods and specific ingredients used. It’s always nice to balance indulgence with a little nutritional awareness, especially during the festive season!
FAQ Section
Got questions about your *Christmas dinner for two*? No worries, I’ve got you covered with some common queries!
How do I know when the ribeye steaks are done?
A great way to check is to use a meat thermometer! For medium-rare, aim for an internal temperature of about 130°F (54°C). If you don’t have one, just feel the steak; it should be firm but still have a little give.
Can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare them a few hours in advance. Just store them in the fridge and reheat with a splash of milk or cream to keep them creamy. Perfect for less stress on the big day!
What if I don’t have Brussels sprouts?
No problem! You can swap them out for green beans or asparagus, which will roast beautifully and add a pop of color to your plate.
Can I use frozen Brussels sprouts?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before roasting to avoid excess moisture. You want them crispy, not soggy!
Is this recipe suitable for special diets?
This recipe is quite versatile! If you’re looking for a low-fat option, you can trim some fat off the ribeye or choose a leaner cut. Feel free to customize the sides to fit your dietary preferences!
Call to Action
I hope you’re as excited to try this *Christmas dinner for two* as I am! If you give it a go, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you add any personal twists? How did it turn out? Please leave a comment below and let me know! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to rate it and share it with your friends. Let’s spread the holiday cheer and inspire others to create their own cozy dinners this season! Happy cooking!
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Christmas Dinner for Two: 5 Magical Moments to Savor
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A cozy Christmas dinner for two.
Ingredients
- 2 ribeye steaks
- 2 cups of Brussels sprouts
- 1 cup of mashed potatoes
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 sprigs of rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the steaks with salt, pepper, and rosemary.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steaks for 3-4 minutes on each side.
- Transfer the skillet to the oven and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Meanwhile, roast the Brussels sprouts in the oven for 20 minutes.
- Prepare the mashed potatoes according to your preference.
- Plate the steaks, Brussels sprouts, and mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Let the steaks rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- You can add gravy to the mashed potatoes if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting and pan-searing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: christmas dinner for two
