Perfect Prime Rib Roast Recipe – How to Cook a Juicy and Tender Prime Rib

The perfect prime rib roast is the ultimate centerpiece for any holiday dinner, Sunday family gathering, or special celebration. Known for its rich marbling, juicy flavor, and impressive presentation, a prime rib roast delivers both tenderness and taste. This recipe provides step-by-step instructions to help you achieve a restaurant-quality prime rib with a crisp crust and a juicy, medium-rare interior.

Ingredients for Prime Rib Roast (Serves 6–8)

• 1 bone-in prime rib roast (5–6 pounds, about 2–3 ribs)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil or softened butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
• 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt
• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
• Optional: 1 teaspoon onion powder or paprika for extra flavor

Preparation and Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Remove the prime rib roast from the refrigerator and allow it to sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).

Step 2: Season the Prime Rib

Combine olive oil or butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pat the roast dry using paper towels, then rub the seasoning mixture evenly over the meat, covering all sides and beneath any fat cap.

Step 3: Sear the Roast at High Heat

Place the roast bone-side down in a roasting pan or on a wire rack inside a baking sheet. Roast at 500°F for 15 minutes to create a golden-brown crust.

Step 4: Roast Low and Slow

After 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:

• Rare: 120°F (about 11–12 minutes per pound)
• Medium-Rare: 130°F (about 13–14 minutes per pound)
• Medium: 135–140°F (about 15 minutes per pound)

Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

Step 5: Rest the Roast Before Serving

Remove the prime rib from the oven, cover loosely with aluminum foil, and allow it to rest for 20–30 minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a tender, flavorful roast. The internal temperature will rise by 5–10°F as it rests.

Serving Suggestions for Prime Rib Roast

Slice the roast across the grain into thick, juicy slices. Pair it with classic sides such as:

• Creamy horseradish sauce or homemade au jus
• Roasted garlic mashed potatoes
• Yorkshire pudding
• Creamed spinach or sautéed green beans

Horseradish Cream Sauce Recipe

To make a quick and flavorful sauce, mix together:

• ½ cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Serve this sauce on the side for a traditional steakhouse-style pairing.

Expert Tips for the Best Prime Rib

• Bone-in prime rib retains more moisture and flavor, but boneless cuts also work well with adjusted cooking times.
• For deeper flavor, dry-age the roast in the refrigerator, uncovered, for 1–3 days before cooking.
• Never skip the resting time—this step is essential for a tender and juicy prime rib roast.
• Invest in a high-quality meat thermometer to guarantee the perfect doneness.

Why This Prime Rib Recipe Works

This recipe combines the best techniques—high-heat searing for a flavorful crust followed by slow roasting for even cooking. The seasoning blend of garlic, rosemary, and thyme enhances the natural flavor of the beef, while the resting period ensures maximum juiciness.

Whether you are preparing Christmas dinner, Thanksgiving, Easter, or a special occasion, this prime rib roast recipe guarantees success and will impress every guest at your table.