Prime Rib is a classic roast that’s rich and full of beef flavor.
Prime Rib introduction
Prime Rib is a show-stopping main dish that works for holidays and special dinners.
It has a browned crust and a tender, pink center when cooked right. For a hearty side, try a spicy and sweet pairing like Caribbean bean stew with tomato rice to balance the roast.
Why make Prime Rib
Prime Rib is easy to season and makes a large, impressive roast with little fuss.
The meat stays juicy when you roast it low and slow after an initial high-heat sear.
How to make Prime Rib
Prime Rib cooks simply with a high start heat and a slower finish.
Follow the steps below and let the roast rest before slicing so juices settle.
Ingredients:
- 1 prime rib roast
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Rosemary
- Olive oil
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Season the prime rib roast generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary.
- Rub the roast with olive oil.
- Place the roast in a roasting pan, bone-side down, and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
- Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on size).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 20 minutes before slicing.
For another roast idea with bold flavors, see this cranberry balsamic ribeye roast for inspiration.
How to serve Prime Rib
Prime Rib is best sliced against the grain into thick pieces.
Serve with au jus or horseradish sauce and simple sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
How to store Prime Rib
Cool leftover slices quickly and store them in an airtight container.
Use within 3–4 days for best flavor, or slice and freeze portions for up to 3 months.
Tips to make Prime Rib
Rest the roast for about 20 minutes to keep it juicy and easy to slice.
Use a meat thermometer to check doneness: 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, 140°F for medium. For extra comfort food ideas, try pairing with rich soups such as French onion short rib soup with cheesy gruyere toast.
Variation (Prime Rib)
- Add a garlic-herb butter under the crust for more flavor.
- Use different herbs like thyme or parsley in place of rosemary.
- For a spiced crust, add paprika and a touch of brown sugar to the rub.
FAQs about Prime Rib
Q: How long should I roast a 5-pound prime rib?
A: After the 15-minute high-heat start, roast at 325°F until the internal temp reaches your target. A 5-pound roast often takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Q: Can I make Prime Rib ahead?
A: Yes. Cook and cool the roast, then keep refrigerated. Reheat gently in a low oven to serve.
Q: What tool helps with perfect doneness?
A: Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the center temperature. Buy it here.
Prime Rib
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 each prime rib roast
- to taste salt Generously season.
- to taste black pepper Generously season.
- to taste garlic powder Generously season.
- to taste rosemary Generously season.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For rubbing the roast.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Season the prime rib roast generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary.
- Rub the roast with olive oil.
- Place the roast in a roasting pan, bone-side down, and roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Cooking
- Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (about 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the size).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 20 minutes before slicing.
