A Prime Rib Recipe is a true showstopper for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. This tender, juicy roast, seasoned with garlic and herbs, delivers rich flavors that will impress your guests. With simple step-by-step instructions, you can achieve the perfect boneless or bone-in prime rib that can elevate any celebration.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- How to Make Prime Rib Recipe
- Step 1: Bring Meat to Room Temperature
- Step 2: Adjust Oven Racks
- Step 3: Combine Seasonings
- Step 4: Prepare Roast
- Step 5: Bake Prime Rib
- Step 6: Resting Phase
- Step 7: Carve Prime Rib Roast
- How to Serve Prime Rib Recipe
- Classic Accompaniments
- Fresh Salads
- Hearty Sides
- Bread Options
- How to Perfect Prime Rib Recipe
- Best Side Dishes for Prime Rib Recipe
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Prime Rib Recipe
- Reheating Prime Rib Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I know when my prime rib is done?
- Can I make this Prime Rib Recipe ahead of time?
- What’s the best way to serve Prime Rib?
- What if I have leftovers from my Prime Rib Recipe?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Unmatched Flavor: The combination of garlic and fresh herbs infuses the meat with a delicious aroma and taste that is simply irresistible.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s for Christmas dinner or Sunday brunch, this prime rib recipe fits perfectly into any meal plan.
- Easy to Follow: With clear steps and tips, even novice cooks can create a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
- Versatile Preparation: Enjoy this prime rib as the star of your main course or serve it as leftovers in sandwiches and salads.
- Impressive Presentation: Carving a perfectly roasted prime rib is sure to impress your family and friends, making you look like a culinary expert.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make the preparation smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Roasting pan
- Meat thermometer
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Plastic wrap
Importance of Each Tool
- Roasting pan: Provides even heat distribution for roasting, ensuring your prime rib cooks perfectly.
- Meat thermometer: Helps monitor the internal temperature accurately, preventing overcooking and guaranteeing perfect doneness.
- Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes carving the roast easy and ensures clean cuts for beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
A slow roasted Prime Rib recipe, seasoned with garlic and herbs, with step-by-step instructions and tips for making perfect boneless or bone-in prime rib.
- 5 pounds beef prime rib (if larger, double the spices/seasonings)
- Sea salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Horseradish, for serving (optional)
How to Make Prime Rib Recipe
Step 1: Bring Meat to Room Temperature
Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator one hour before cooking. Season it on all sides with salt and cover it loosely with plastic wrap. Allowing it to reach room temperature helps ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Adjust Oven Racks
When you’re ready to cook the prime rib, lower your oven rack so that the meat cooks in the center of the oven. Preheat your oven to 500 degrees F.
Step 3: Combine Seasonings
In the meantime, mix together 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and olive oil in a bowl until well combined.
Step 4: Prepare Roast
Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Spoon the seasoning mixture over it, rubbing it onto all sides thoroughly. Place the bone-in roast with bones down inside a roasting cast iron pan or place a boneless roast on a rack inside the pan.
Step 5: Bake Prime Rib
Bake the prime rib at 500 degrees F for 15 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F. Continue baking until reaching your desired level of doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check:
– Rare: 120 degrees F (about 10-12 min/pound)
– Medium Rare: 130 degrees F (about 13-14 min/pound)
– Medium: 140 degrees F (about 14-15 min/pound)
– Medium Well: 150 degrees F
Important: The meat will continue cooking as it rests out of the oven. Remove it when it’s about 5-10 degrees below your target temperature.
Step 6: Resting Phase
Once out of the oven, tent the roast with foil. Allow it to rest for about 30 minutes before carving for optimal juiciness.
Step 7: Carve Prime Rib Roast
Carve your prime rib by slicing against the grain into approximately half-inch thick slices. Serve with horseradish if desired for an extra kick!
How to Serve Prime Rib Recipe
Serving prime rib is an art that complements the richness of the meat. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Classic Accompaniments
- Horseradish Sauce: A tangy and spicy addition that cuts through the richness of the beef.
- Au Jus: A flavorful gravy made from the drippings, perfect for dipping or drizzling over slices.
Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing and topped with croutons adds a refreshing crunch.
- Wedge Salad: A hearty wedge of iceberg lettuce with blue cheese dressing and crispy bacon provides a delightful contrast to the roast.
Hearty Sides
- Creamed Spinach: This rich side dish pairs wonderfully with prime rib, adding a creamy texture.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Seasoned and roasted until caramelized, these add a savory touch to the meal.
Bread Options
- Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up juices from the prime rib.
- Yorkshire Pudding: A traditional British side that is light and airy, great for serving alongside prime rib.

How to Perfect Prime Rib Recipe
Achieving the perfect prime rib requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some tips to ensure your roast turns out beautifully every time.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: This ensures you cook your prime rib to the desired doneness without guesswork.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the meat to rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making it more tender when sliced.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and herbs; they enhance the flavor of the beef significantly.
- Preheat Your Oven Properly: Starting at a high temperature helps create a nice crust while sealing in juices.
- Slice Against the Grain: This method ensures each slice is tender and easy to chew.
Best Side Dishes for Prime Rib Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your prime rib enhances the meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the richness of the meat perfectly.
- Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus adds freshness and crunch alongside your roast.
- Baked Macaroni and Cheese: This comforting classic brings a cheesy goodness that everyone loves.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet carrots provide a lovely contrast to the savory flavors of prime rib.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds brightness and texture, balancing out richer dishes.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of seasonal root veggies adds color and sweetness, enhancing your plate’s visual appeal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your prime rib, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the taste and texture of your dish. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of.
- Ignoring room temperature: Always bring your prime rib to room temperature before cooking. This helps it cook evenly, resulting in a juicier roast.
- Over-seasoning: While seasoning is crucial, too much salt or spice can overpower the beef’s natural flavor. Stick to recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
- Skipping the resting period: Failing to let your prime rib rest after cooking can lead to dry meat. Allow it to rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
- Incorrect oven temperature: Starting at too low a temperature can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your oven properly to ensure even roasting.
- Neglecting the thermometer: Relying solely on cooking time instead of checking internal temperature can lead to overcooked or undercooked meat. Use a meat thermometer for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Prime Rib Recipe
- Wrap prime rib tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
- You can freeze it for up to 6 months for optimal freshness.
Reheating Prime Rib Recipe
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 250°F and reheat covered with foil for about 20-30 minutes, ensuring it remains juicy.
- Microwave: Place slices on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts until warm, but be careful not to overcook.
- Stovetop: Sear slices in a hot skillet with a little oil over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious prime rib recipe:
How do I know when my prime rib is done?
Use a meat thermometer. Rare is 120°F, Medium Rare is 130°F, Medium is 140°F, and Medium Well is 150°F.
Can I make this Prime Rib Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the seasoning mixture and bring the meat to room temperature earlier in the day, but cook it fresh for best results.
What’s the best way to serve Prime Rib?
Prime rib pairs wonderfully with horseradish sauce or au jus. Serve with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
What if I have leftovers from my Prime Rib Recipe?
Leftover prime rib can be stored in the fridge for up to four days or frozen for six months. Reheat it carefully using one of the methods mentioned above.
Final Thoughts
This Prime Rib Recipe is perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners. Its rich flavors and tender texture make it a standout dish that everyone will love. Feel free to customize with different herbs or side dishes based on your preferences!
Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.
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Prime Rib Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate culinary experience with this Prime Rib Recipe, perfect for any occasion. This succulent roast is seasoned with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, ensuring a rich flavor that will delight your family and guests alike. With straightforward step-by-step instructions, you’ll master the art of cooking either boneless or bone-in prime rib that’s tender and juicy every time. Whether it’s a festive holiday gathering or a cozy family dinner, this dish promises to be the star of your meal. Impress everyone at your table as you serve perfectly roasted prime rib, beautifully carved and bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 5 pounds beef prime rib
- Sea salt
- 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
- 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions
- Bring the prime rib to room temperature by removing it from the refrigerator an hour before cooking.
- Preheat your oven to 500°F and adjust the oven rack to center.
- In a bowl, mix together salt, pepper, rosemary, thyme, garlic, and olive oil.
- Pat the roast dry and rub the seasoning mixture generously over all sides.
- Place the roast in a roasting pan (bone side down for bone-in) and bake at 500°F for 15 minutes.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F and continue baking until desired doneness is reached (use a meat thermometer).
- Rest the roast tented with foil for about 30 minutes before carving into half-inch slices.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (about 85g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg