The savory, mouthwatering aroma of a perfectly roasted prime rib wafts through the air, instantly transporting you to a cozy holiday gathering. Imagine succulent meat with a golden-brown crust, oozing juices that glisten like diamonds under the warm kitchen lights.
Every bite of this prime rib recipe brings a symphony of flavors—juicy, rich beef complemented by fragrant herbs and spices. Whether it’s a festive family feast or a casual Sunday dinner, this dish is sure to create unforgettable moments around the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation makes this prime rib recipe perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike
- You’ll impress your guests with its delectable flavor profile, featuring tender meat and aromatic seasonings
- Visually stunning when served, it’s bound to be the centerpiece of your meal
- This versatile dish pairs beautifully with various sides, allowing for endless culinary creativity
The first time I made this prime rib recipe for my family, their joyous reactions were priceless; even my picky cousin couldn’t resist going back for seconds.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Prime Rib Roast: Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum flavor and tenderness; aim for about 4-6 pounds.
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Salt: A generous rub of kosher salt enhances the meat’s natural flavor; don’t skimp on this essential ingredient.
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Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper elevates the taste; opt for whole peppercorns if you can.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch; use about 4-6 cloves minced finely.
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Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: These fragrant herbs impart earthiness and depth; feel free to substitute with dried if fresh isn’t available.
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Beef Broth: This adds moisture during cooking; choose low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Prime Rib: Start by removing your prime rib from the fridge about an hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) while you season generously with salt and pepper.
Create the Herb Paste: In a small bowl, mix minced garlic with finely chopped rosemary and thyme. Add some olive oil to create a paste that adheres beautifully to the meat.
Season Generously: Rub the herb paste all over the prime rib, ensuring every nook and cranny gets coated. The smell should start making your mouth water at this point!
Roast it Up!: Place your seasoned roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast in your preheated oven for 20 minutes before lowering the temperature to 325°F (163°C) for even cooking.
Add Moisture**: Pour beef broth into the bottom of the roasting pan after lowering the temperature. This keeps your roast moist while creating flavorful drippings for gravy later on.
Rest Before Slicing: Once your internal temperature reaches around 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare (about 1-1.5 hours total), remove it from the oven. Let it rest tented with foil for at least 20 minutes before slicing—this is crucial!
This delightful prime rib recipe not only fills your home with tantalizing aromas but also brings people together around a table filled with laughter and love. Enjoy every moment as you savor this culinary masterpiece!
You Must Know
- This prime rib recipe transforms a humble cut of meat into an unforgettable feast
- The aroma of roasting prime rib fills the kitchen, evoking memories of family gatherings and celebrations
- It not only impresses guests but also brings everyone together around the dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning your prime rib a day in advance for maximum flavor absorption. Sear it on high heat first, then slow-roast at a low temperature until it reaches your desired doneness.

Add Your Touch
Consider adding garlic cloves or fresh rosemary to the roasting pan for extra flavor. You can also experiment with different spice blends to create a unique twist on this classic dish.
Storing & Reheating
To maintain freshness, wrap leftover prime rib tightly in foil and refrigerate. When reheating, warm it gently in the oven at 250 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through to avoid drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect prime rib, always use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature
- Letting the roast rest after cooking ensures juiciness
- Additionally, consider pairing with a rich red wine for an elevated dining experience
Sharing stories around this prime rib recipe always brings smiles; one time, my friends declared me a culinary genius after I nailed it for our holiday dinner!

FAQ
What is the best way to season prime rib?
Use coarse salt, pepper, and garlic for a classic, flavorful crust that enhances its natural taste.
How long should I let prime rib rest before slicing?
Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Can I cook prime rib in advance?
Yes, you can cook it ahead of time and reheat gently, but freshly cooked is always best!
Savory Prime Rib Recipe
Indulge in the rich, mouthwatering flavors of a perfectly roasted prime rib that will elevate any gathering. This succulent dish features a golden-brown crust, tender meat, and aromatic herbs that create unforgettable dining experiences. Ideal for holidays or Sunday dinners, it’s simple enough for beginners while impressing seasoned cooks alike.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4–6 pounds prime rib roast
- 3 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons freshly cracked black pepper
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
Instructions
- Remove the prime rib from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 1 hour. Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C).
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a bowl, combine minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and olive oil to form an herb paste. Rub this mixture all over the meat.
- Place the roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and pour beef broth into the pan.
- Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches about 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare (approximately 1-1.5 hours).
- Remove from oven and let rest tented with foil for at least 20 minutes before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 3 ounces)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 0 grams
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 23 grams
- Saturated Fat: 10 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 0 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Protein: 24 grams
- Cholesterol: 85 mg


