There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into a perfectly cooked, juicy cut of beef to elevate any special occasion. This Prime Rib Roast Recipe brings together a luscious, tender 7-pound bone-in prime rib seasoned with fragrant herbs, garlic, and just the right amount of salt and pepper to really make the flavors sing. Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or craving a hearty Sunday feast, this recipe promises a show-stopping centerpiece that impresses every time with its rich taste and gorgeous presentation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are surprisingly simple but absolutely essential to crafting the perfect Prime Rib Roast Recipe. Each adds a layer of flavor or richness that transforms the beef into a beautifully balanced experience.
- 7 lb beef prime rib (bone-in): The star of the show, this cut is prized for its marbling and deep flavor that stays juicy during cooking.
- 3 1/2 tsp sea salt (divided): Sea salt enhances the natural flavor of the beef and helps create a delicious crust.
- 1/2 Tbsp black pepper (freshly ground): Freshly ground pepper adds a subtle spice and depth that complements the richness of the meat.
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary leaves, minced: Rosemary’s piney notes give the roast an earthy freshness that pairs beautifully with beef.
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves, minced: Thyme introduces a mild herbaceous hint, perfectly balancing the boldness of the rosemary.
- 6 garlic cloves (finely chopped): Garlic infuses the roast with a savory warmth that seeps into every bite.
- 3 Tbsp extra light olive oil: This helps the herbs and seasoning stick to the meat while adding a touch of moisture for a golden crust.
How to Make Prime Rib Roast Recipe
Step 1: Preparing the Roast
Start by patting your prime rib dry with paper towels to ensure the seasonings will stick well. Then, mix 2 teaspoons of sea salt with the black pepper, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and olive oil until you get a thick rub. Massage this herb and seasoning blend all over the meat, making sure to coat all sides evenly. Letting the roast sit at room temperature for about 45 minutes helps it cook more evenly.
Step 2: Seasoning and Salting
Once the herb rub is in place, sprinkle the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of sea salt over the surface. This kosher salting step is key to creating that crave-worthy outer crust, locking in the juices while the roast cooks. It also intensifies the beef’s natural flavors, so don’t skip this part!
Step 3: Roasting to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the prime rib bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan to allow air circulation and even cooking. Roast for 15 minutes at high heat to get that initial sear, then reduce the temperature to 325°F (165°C) and roast for about 1 hour and 45 minutes more, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium-rare. Let the meat rest for at least 20 minutes before carving so the juices redistribute perfectly.
How to Serve Prime Rib Roast Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a handful of fresh rosemary sprigs or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt right before serving add a beautiful touch and enhance aroma. A few roasted garlic cloves scattered on the platter can make the whole experience warmer and more inviting.
Side Dishes
Classic sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, or a crisp green salad with a zingy vinaigrette perfectly complement the richness of the Prime Rib Roast Recipe. Horseradish sauce or a red wine jus also add that extra layer of flavor and are crowd favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, arrange thin slices of the prime rib on a wooden board alongside colorful roasted vegetables, fresh herbs, and small bowls of dipping sauces. This casual and interactive style encourages everyone to savor each bite at their own pace while enjoying a rustic, charming presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Prime Rib Roast Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or store in an airtight container. Keep it refrigerated and consume within 3 to 4 days to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover slices if you want to enjoy them later. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Frozen prime rib tastes great when thawed properly and eaten within 2 to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a low oven (around 250°F) covered loosely with foil until warmed through, or gently reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat for just a few minutes. This method preserves tenderness without drying out your prime rib.
FAQs
What is the best temperature to cook a prime rib roast?
For a beautifully tender and juicy prime rib, aim for an internal temperature of 130°F for medium-rare. Cooking at higher temps for too long can dry it out, so using a meat thermometer is the best way to achieve perfect doneness.
Can I make this Prime Rib Roast Recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can season the roast a day in advance and keep it refrigerated, which actually helps deepen the flavor. Just let it come back to room temperature before roasting.
How long should I rest the roast before carving?
Let your prime rib rest for at least 20 minutes after roasting. This resting time allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every slice is tender and moist.
Do I need to use bone-in prime rib for this recipe?
Bone-in prime rib adds extra flavor and helps the meat cook evenly, but you can use boneless if preferred. Just keep an eye on cooking times as boneless cuts may cook a little faster.
What sides pair best with this Prime Rib Roast Recipe?
Traditional mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and horseradish sauce are classic companions. Feel free to experiment with fresh salad greens or buttery dinner rolls for variety.
Final Thoughts
Making this Prime Rib Roast Recipe is truly a labor of love that pays off in every delicious bite. Whether celebrating a special moment or simply craving a flavorful, hearty meal, this recipe is guaranteed to impress family and friends alike. Give it a try and enjoy the beautiful aromas, the tender meat, and the joyous moments born around the table.
Print
Prime Rib Roast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Prime Rib recipe offers a classic, tender, and flavorful roast perfect for special occasions. Featuring a bone-in 7 lb prime rib seasoned with sea salt, black pepper, fresh herbs, and garlic, then roasted to juicy perfection for a memorable meal serving 12 people.
Ingredients
Meat
- 7 lb beef prime rib (bone-in)
Seasoning
- 3 1/2 tsp sea salt (divided)
- 1/2 Tbsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1 tsp fresh rosemary leaves, minced (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1/2 tsp fresh thyme leaves, minced (or 1/4 tsp dried thyme)
- 6 garlic cloves, finely chopped
Oil
- 3 Tbsp extra light olive oil
Instructions
- Prep the Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine 3 tsp of sea salt, black pepper, minced rosemary, minced thyme, chopped garlic, and extra light olive oil to create a herb-garlic paste.
- Prepare the Prime Rib: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. Rub the herb-garlic paste evenly all over the meat, ensuring every surface is coated to enhance flavor.
- Season with Salt: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 tsp sea salt evenly over the prime rib to further enhance seasoning.
- Roast the Prime Rib: Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the prime rib on a roasting rack in a shallow pan. Roast for 15 minutes to sear the exterior, locking in juices.
- Reduce Oven Temperature: After the initial searing, lower the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting the prime rib for approximately 90 minutes, or until an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium rare is reached.
- Rest the Meat: Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.
- Slice and Serve: Carve the prime rib into servings of 2-3 slices per rib bone and serve immediately for best flavor and tenderness.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness; 130°F for medium rare is recommended.
- Resting the meat is crucial to keep it juicy and tender.
- Bone-in prime rib enhances flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking.
- Letting the roast come to room temperature before cooking can improve even cooking.
- Adjust herbs and garlic based on personal preference for flavor intensity.
