There’s something magical about Christmas in Nebraska. Snow drifting across the fields… the warmth of a full house… the smell of something incredible roasting in the oven. Around here, gathering your favorite people around a hearty meal isn’t just tradition — it’s the heartbeat of the season.
At Ellsworth Crossing, we believe that Christmas dinner is one of the most important meals of the year. It’s where stories are shared, hugs are exchanged, and families (big and small) slow down long enough to really connect. As a veteran-owned, family-run, locally rooted Nebraska business, we understand how meaningful those moments are. And we’re honored to be a small part of your holiday table. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering in Waterloo, inviting friends over in Elkhorn, or keeping things cozy in Valley or West Omaha, one thing is certain: a perfectly cooked holiday roast brings everyone together.
And this year? We’ve stocked the good stuff.
🎄 Your Local Source for Christmas Roasts (Waterloo NE + 25 Mile Radius)
From show-stopping bone-in prime rib to melt-in-your-mouth tenderloin, Ellsworth Crossing has everything you need for an unforgettable Christmas dinner — all naturally raised, Nebraska-sourced, and full of true farm-to-table flavor.
Our Christmas offerings include:
- Bone-in Prime Rib Roasts
- Boneless Prime Rib
- Beef Tenderloin (center-cut & full tenderloins)
- Boneless Short Rib Roasts
- Rump Roasts, Chuck Roasts, & Holiday Favorites
- Locally raised Nebraska beef from trusted family farmers
Whether you’re planning a traditional Christmas dinner or shaking things up with something new, our roasts are the kind of quality you serve proudly — because you know where they came from, how they were raised, and the care that went into every step.
🌟 Why Prime Rib Is the King of Christmas Dinner
If Christmas had an official roast, it would be prime rib. Rich, juicy, tender, and beautifully marbled, a bone-in rib roast has that “wow factor” that makes everyone stop and stare when it hits the table.But here’s the little secret:
Prime rib isn’t complicated.
In fact, with the right cut of beef (which we take care of for you!), the oven does most of the work.
This year, bring home one of our naturally raised Nebraska prime rib roasts and let this recipe turn your Christmas dinner into something unforgettable.
Ellsworth Crossing’s Perfect Christmas Prime Rib Recipe Instructions
1 Ellsworth Crossing bone-in prime rib roast (or boneless prime rib), Plan on 1 pound of Prime Rib per person
Season and rub the prime rib
Step 1: spray with duck fat and rub with beef tallow or butter.
Step 2: Use cracked pepper and sea or Himalayan salt.
Step 3: Garnish with fresh thyme and rosemary.
Approximate time of cooking a prime rib roast?
It depends on size and how you like it done. I highly recommend using a temperature probe. For a 12-15 lb roast it may take about ninety minutes, but go by the temperature probe please.
Temperature recommendations
Prime Rib is best cooked to medium rare in my opinion and I shoot for 120-125 degrees. Medium will be about 130 degrees. It may be more done in certain areas than others so take multiple probes. This is good because it pleases several different tastes with one roast!
Cooking in an oven
Preheat to 500 degrees. You may choose to cut the rib loin in half for quicker results. Roast 30 minutes and then reduce to 300 degrees. Test temperature to the specifications listed above (temperature probe and targets for medium rare or medium). Let rest for 20 minutes.
Pro tip: The steak will continue to cook after removing it from the heat source.
For a Smoker
I like to sear my Prime Rib on a cast iron or grill. Do this for about 15-20 minutes. Get some great grill marks! Also, preheat smoker to 350 degrees. For a 12-15 Prime Rib Roast it may take approximately 4 hours. It is typically 30 minutes per pound, but use the temperature probe as there are many factors. Target the temperature you like best. Remember it will continue to cook even after you pull it from the heart source. Pull it and let it rest once it hits your heat target.
Time to EAT!
Slice and enjoy!
🥩 Not Cooking Prime Rib This Year? Try These Holiday Favorites.
We know every family has its traditions. Maybe yours prefers something a bit different — or maybe you’re feeding a smaller group this year.
Here are a few incredible options, all ready for pickup right here in Waterloo:
🎁 Beef Tenderloin
Lean, elegant, and unbelievably tender. A perfect choice for Christmas Eve or Christmas Day.
Great for smaller gatherings or anyone who loves a luxe cut without a lot of fat.
🍷 Boneless Short Rib Roast
Slow-cooked, fork-tender, and full of deep, rich flavor.
Pairs beautifully with red wine sauces or rustic sides.
🔥 Chuck Roasts & Rump Roasts
Affordable, flavorful, and comforting — perfect for low-and-slow holiday meals.
No matter what you choose, every cut we sell is naturally raised, sourced from local Nebraska farmers, and handled with the care you expect from a veteran-owned, family business that takes pride in feeding our community.
🎁 Why Locals Choose Ellsworth Crossing for Holiday Meats
Ellsworth Crossing isn’t a big corporate grocery chain — and that’s exactly why our customers love shopping here.
You get:
✔ Nebraska-raised beef
✔ Naturally sourced, ethical, traceable meats
✔ Family-driven service
✔ A veteran-owned small business that knows every farmer we partner with
✔ Freshness you can taste
✔ A store atmosphere that feels like home
We’re honored to be part of your holiday traditions — whether this is your first year cooking Christmas dinner or your hundredth.
🛒 Ready to Order Your Christmas Roast? Avoid the last-minute rush and claim the roast you want while supplies last.
Avoid the last-minute rush and claim the roast you want while supplies last.
👉 Pickup available at Ellsworth Crossing – Waterloo, NebraskaServing customers across Waterloo, Valley, Elkhorn, West Omaha, Fremont, and a 25-mile radius.
Your table deserves local Nebraska beef raised with care — and your family deserves a holiday dinner they’ll talk about for years.
From our family to yours,
Merry Christmas, and happy feasting.
