Prime Rib, also known as a Standing Rib Roast, is one of the most luxurious beef cuts you can serve. This recipe gives you a tender, juicy, and perfectly cooked roast with a beautifully seasoned crust. Whether for Christmas, Sunday dinner, or a special occasion, this prime rib recipe guarantees a restaurant-quality result right at home.
Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Resting Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Equipment
- Roasting pan with rack
- Meat thermometer
- Sharp carving knife
- Mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 (5-6 lb) bone-in prime rib roast
- 3 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
Ingredient Notes
- Prime Rib: Choose a roast with good marbling — that’s where the flavor comes from.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs add a classic aroma and taste, but you can substitute with dried herbs if needed (use 1 tsp dried for every 1 tbsp fresh).
- Garlic: Enhances the beef’s rich flavor — don’t skip it!
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Roast
- Take the prime rib out of the refrigerator at least 2 hours before cooking to reach room temperature.
- Pat dry with paper towels for a perfect crust.
Step 2: Season the Meat
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika.
- Rub the mixture generously all over the roast, making sure to cover every side.
Step 3: Roast the Prime Rib
- Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Place the roast, fat side up, on a rack in a roasting pan.
- Roast for 20 minutes at 450°F to form a crust.
- Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting:
- Rare: About 1 hour 30 minutes (120°F internal temp)
- Medium Rare: About 1 hour 45 minutes (130°F internal temp)
- Medium: About 2 hours (135°F internal temp)
Step 4: Rest Before Carving
- Remove from oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 20–30 minutes before carving.
- This helps the juices redistribute for a tender, juicy roast.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
Slice the prime rib between the bones and serve with au jus, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 620
- Protein: 50g
- Fat: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
Tips and Variations
- Bone-in vs Boneless: Bone-in adds flavor and moisture; boneless is easier to carve.
- Make it ahead: You can season the roast up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate for deeper flavor.
- Au Jus: Use the pan drippings to make a simple beef gravy by adding beef broth and simmering for a few minutes.
- Smoked Prime Rib: For an extra smoky flavor, cook the roast on a smoker at 225°F until desired doneness.
