Prime Rib Recipe
A Prime Rib Recipe is the centerpiece of any festive gathering, delivering rich flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This delicious dish is perfect for holidays, family dinners, or special occasions. With its blend of garlic and herbs, this slow-roasted prime rib stands out as an impressive culinary achievement that anyone can master. Whether you choose bone-in or boneless, this recipe will ensure your prime rib is consistently perfect.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making prime rib at home has never been easier.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic and fresh herbs infuses the meat with a rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Versatile for Occasions: Ideal for holidays, special events, or a delightful Sunday dinner, this recipe fits any occasion.
- Perfectly Cooked Every Time: Detailed instructions on cooking times ensure your prime rib reaches your desired level of doneness.
- Impressive Presentation: Carving the roast at the table creates a stunning visual that elevates your dining experience.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Prime Rib Recipe successfully, it’s essential to have the right tools on hand. These tools help ensure precision and ease throughout the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Paper towels
Importance of Each Tool
- Roasting pan: Provides even heat distribution for perfectly cooked meat.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures your prime rib reaches the ideal temperature for your preferred doneness.
- Sharp knife: Allows for clean slices when carving your roast.
Ingredients
For this Prime Rib Recipe, gather the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 5 pounds beef prime rib (if larger, double the spices/seasonings)
- Sea salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Horseradish, for serving (optional)
How to Make Prime Rib Recipe
Step 1: Bring Meat to Room Temperature
Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator one hour before cooking. Season it on all sides with sea salt and cover it loosely with plastic wrap. Allowing it to reach room temperature ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Adjust Oven Racks
Before cooking, adjust your oven rack to place the meat in the center of the oven. Preheat your oven to 500 degrees F.
Step 3: Combine Seasonings
In a bowl, mix together 1 1/2 teaspoons sea salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare Roast
Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Rub seasoning mixture over all sides of the meat. If using a bone-in roast, place it bone-side down in a roasting pan; if boneless, set it on a rack inside the pan.
Step 5: Bake Prime Rib
Bake at 500 degrees for 15 minutes. Then reduce temperature to 325 degrees F and continue baking until reaching your desired doneness:
– Rare: 120 degrees F (about 10-12 min/pound)
– Medium Rare: 130 degrees F (about 13-14 min/pound)
– Medium: 140 degrees F (about 14-15 min/pound)
– Medium Well: 150 degrees F
Important note: The meat continues to cook while resting; remove it from the oven when it’s about 5-10 degrees below your target temperature.
Step 6: Rest
Remove from oven and tent with foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving to allow juices to redistribute.
Step 7: Carve Prime Rib
Slice against the grain into approximately half-inch thick slices. Serve with horseradish if desired. Enjoy this delightful Prime Rib Recipe with family and friends!
How to Serve Prime Rib Recipe
Serving prime rib is an experience in itself, as this dish is often the centerpiece of a meal. To elevate your serving style, consider the following suggestions:
Classic Accompaniments
- Horseradish Sauce: A traditional pairing that adds a spicy kick to the rich flavors of the prime rib.
- Au Jus: Serve with a warm beef broth for dipping to enhance moisture and flavor.
Gourmet Touches
- Truffle Butter: Add a dollop on top for an indulgent touch that complements the savory meat.
- Herb Butter: Mix softened butter with fresh herbs for a fragrant finish.
Presentation Ideas
- Carved Tableside: Carving the roast at the dining table adds drama and engages your guests.
- Platter Display: Arrange slices on a beautiful platter with fresh herbs for color and elegance.
Wine Pairing
- Red Wine: A full-bodied red, like Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs beautifully with the richness of prime rib.

How to Perfect Prime Rib Recipe
To ensure your prime rib turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This tool guarantees you achieve the desired doneness without guesswork.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the meat to rest after cooking helps retain juices, ensuring every bite is tender.
- Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and spices; they enhance the flavor profile significantly.
- Cook Slowly: A lower temperature towards the end ensures even cooking and prevents over-drying.
- Choose Quality Meat: Select high-quality prime rib from a reputable butcher for better flavor and texture.
Best Side Dishes for Prime Rib Recipe
Complementing your prime rib with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic make a classic pairing that absorbs gravy well.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted to perfection provide color and nutrition alongside the rich meat.
- Creamed Spinach: This dish offers a rich and creamy contrast to the bold flavors of prime rib.
- Yorkshire Pudding: Traditional English fare that soaks up juices, enhancing every mouthful of beef.
- Caesar Salad: Crunchy romaine with tangy dressing balances the richness of prime rib perfectly.
- Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements savory dishes like prime rib wonderfully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a perfect prime rib recipe, avoiding common pitfalls is crucial. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping room temperature – Failing to bring the meat to room temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always let your prime rib rest for at least an hour before roasting.
- Incorrect seasoning amounts – Using too little or too much seasoning can ruin the flavor. Stick to the specified amounts in the recipe for optimal taste.
- Not checking doneness – Cooking without a meat thermometer can result in overcooked or undercooked meat. Always monitor the internal temperature closely.
- Cutting too soon – Carving the prime rib immediately after cooking can dry it out. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Ignoring oven temperature adjustments – Failing to reduce the oven temperature after the initial sear can lead to burnt edges and raw centers. Follow the temperature instructions carefully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container.
- It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Prime Rib Recipe
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in a freezer-safe bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 6 months.
Reheating Prime Rib Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 250°F and heat until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave – Use low power settings and heat in short intervals for even warming.
- Stovetop – Sear slices briefly in a pan over medium heat until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the prime rib recipe and their answers.
How do I choose the best prime rib cut?
Selecting a well-marbled cut ensures tenderness and flavor. Look for USDA Choice or Prime grades for optimal results.
What is the best way to cook a prime rib recipe?
Slow roasting at varying temperatures yields juicy meat with a perfect crust. Follow our step-by-step instructions for success.
Can I make this prime rib recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can season it a day before and refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before cooking.
How should I serve my prime rib?
Serve sliced with horseradish on the side and accompanied by your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Final Thoughts
This prime rib recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner, it’s sure to impress. Feel free to customize your seasonings or serve it with various sauces for a unique twist!
Prime Rib Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in this mouthwatering Prime Rib Recipe, a show-stopping centerpiece perfect for any gathering. This slow-roasted prime rib is seasoned with garlic and fresh herbs, delivering a rich flavor profile and tender texture that will impress your family and friends. Its ease of preparation makes it accessible for home cooks of all skill levels. Whether for a holiday feast or an elegant dinner party, this classic dish guarantees to elevate your dining experience. Follow our straightforward instructions to achieve the perfect roast every time, ensuring it’s juicy and flavorful from the first bite to the last.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds beef prime rib
- Sea salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Horseradish, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Bring the prime rib to room temperature by removing it from the refrigerator one hour prior to cooking. Season generously with sea salt and cover loosely.
- Preheat your oven to 500°F and adjust the rack to the center.
- In a bowl, mix together salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and olive oil.
- Pat the roast dry and rub the seasoning mixture over all sides.
- Place the roast bone-side down in a roasting pan and bake at 500°F for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 325°F and continue baking until your desired doneness is reached (about 10-15 minutes per pound).
- Let rest covered with foil for at least 30 minutes before carving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (plus resting)
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (113g)
- Calories: 287
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg






