Prime Rib Roast – Juicy, Tender, and Flavorful Beef

A perfectly cooked Prime Rib Roast is the ultimate centerpiece for special occasions, holiday dinners, or Sunday family meals. With a tender, juicy interior and a flavorful, herb-crusted exterior, this roast brings restaurant-quality results to your home kitchen. The rich marbling ensures melt-in-your-mouth texture, while simple seasoning highlights the natural beef flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy, tender beef with rich flavor
• Simple seasoning enhances natural taste
• Herb-crusted exterior creates a perfect presentation
• Easy-to-follow roasting method with reliable results
• Ideal for holidays, special occasions, or entertaining
• Pairs beautifully with classic sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes

Ingredients

For the roast

• 1 (5–7 pound) prime rib roast, bone-in
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon onion powder

Optional for serving

• Horseradish sauce
• Roasted vegetables
• Au jus or pan drippings

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Position a rack in a roasting pan.
2. Prepare the roast: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the surface.
3. Season: In a small bowl, combine garlic, salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, and onion powder. Rub evenly over the entire roast.
4. Roast at high heat: Place the roast fat-side up in the pan. Roast for 15 minutes at 450°F (230°C) to sear the exterior.
5. Reduce oven temperature: Lower the heat to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:
   • Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
   • Medium-rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
   • Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)
6. Rest the meat: Remove the roast from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes. The internal temperature will rise slightly, and juices will redistribute.
7. Carve and serve: Slice between the bones for even pieces. Serve with horseradish sauce, au jus, or your favorite sides.

Tips & Variations

• Use a meat thermometer for precise cooking and perfect doneness
• Allow the roast to come to room temperature before cooking for even results
• For extra flavor, marinate overnight with herbs and garlic
• Rotate the pan halfway through cooking if your oven has hot spots
• Garlic and herb crust with fresh parsley and thyme
• Mustard and herb rub for a tangy crust
• Coffee or spice-rubbed prime rib for a bold flavor

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through to avoid drying out the meat.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with roasted potatoes, sautéed green beans, or glazed carrots
• Horseradish sauce or creamy horseradish mayo complements the beef perfectly

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to cook a prime rib roast?

Cooking time varies depending on weight and desired doneness. A 5–7 pound roast typically takes 15 minutes at high heat for searing, plus 1 ½ to 2 ½ hours at 325°F. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Should I remove the bone before cooking?

No. Cooking bone-in enhances flavor and helps the meat cook more evenly. Slice between the bones after resting for perfect portions.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. You can season and prep the roast the day before, keeping it covered in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before roasting.

How do I know when it’s done?

Use a meat thermometer: 120–125°F for rare, 130–135°F for medium-rare, and 140–145°F for medium. Resting the meat allows the temperature to rise slightly and juices to redistribute.

Ready to Make It?

This Prime Rib Roast delivers tender, juicy, and flavorful results that impress every time. Its simple preparation, savory seasoning, and gorgeous presentation make it ideal for holidays, celebrations, or any time you want a restaurant-quality meal at home. Save this recipe, try it for your next special dinner, and enjoy every succulent bite.

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