If you’re looking for a show-stopping main dish, this Prime Rib Recipe is it. Nothing beats a juicy, tender, and flavorful prime rib roast oven cooked to perfection. Whether it’s a holiday dinner, a family gathering, or a special celebration, this dish never fails to impress.
A great prime rib roast recipe doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple steps, anyone can master this dish at home. Plus, it’s a lot cheaper than ordering it from a steakhouse! Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or a Philly Cheesesteak Recipe for a meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Why I Love This Recipe
Simple Yet Elegant
Cooking prime rib roast oven can feel intimidating, but trust me, it’s easier than you think. A good rub, the right temperature, and a little patience are all you need.
Restaurant Quality at Home
Ever checked the price of Smoked Prime Rib Roast at a steakhouse? It’s not cheap! By making it yourself, you get the same amazing flavors for a fraction of the cost.
Versatile and Customizable
Whether you love a Slow Roasted Prime Rib or a Grilled Prime Rib, you can tweak this Prime Rib Recipe to suit your taste.
How Much Prime Rib Do You Need?
General Rule
Plan on 1 pound per person. If serving plenty of side dishes, ½ to ¾ pound per person should suffice.
Bone-In vs. Boneless Prime Rib
A bone-in prime rib is more flavorful and cooks better, while a boneless prime rib roast is easier to carve. If you choose bone-in, ask your butcher to remove the bone and tie it back on—it creates a natural roasting rack.
What is Prime Rib?
A Cut Above the Rest
Prime Rib Roast Recipe refers to a standing rib roast, which comes from the upper ribs of the cow. This cut is known for its tenderness and marbling, making it one of the most luxurious meats to cook.
Bone-In vs. Boneless Prime Rib
Bone-In Prime Rib
More flavor, better heat distribution, and a built-in roasting rack.
Boneless Prime Rib Roast
Easier to carve and requires a rack to roast properly. Both options work great for this Prime Rib Recipe.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guide
The Best Cooking Method
Start at 500°F for 15 minutes, then lower to 325°F and cook based on doneness preference. Always use a meat thermometer!
Prime Rib Doneness Chart
| Doneness Level | Temperature (°F) |
|---|---|
| Rare | 115-120°F |
| Medium Rare | 125-130°F |
| Medium | 135-140°F |
| Medium Well | 145-150°F |
Remember, the meat will continue cooking 5-10 degrees after removing it from the oven.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Prime Rib
1. Let the Meat Rest
Take your Prime Rib Roast Recipe out of the fridge one hour before cooking. This helps it cook evenly. Lightly season with salt and cover with plastic wrap.
2. Prepare the Herb Rub
Mix salt, pepper, fresh thyme, rosemary, garlic, and olive oil. Massage the rub all over the roast to enhance flavor.
3. Cooking the Prime Rib
- Bone-in: Place bone-side down in an oven-safe pan.
- Boneless: Set on a rack inside a roasting pan.
- Sear at 500°F for 15 minutes, then lower the temp to 325°F.
- Cook 10-12 min per pound for rare, 13-14 min per pound for medium-rare, and so on.
4. Resting the Meat
Once done, tent the roast with foil and let it rest 30 minutes. This step is crucial for locking in juices.
5. Carving and Serving
Slice against the grain for tenderness. Serve with sides like mashed potatoes or a Philly Cheese Steak Sandwich for the ultimate meal.
Tips for the Perfect Prime Rib
Use a Meat Thermometer
This is non-negotiable! The best way to ensure perfect Cooking Prime Rib Roast is by checking internal temps.
Don’t Overcook
Since Smoked Standing Rib Roast continues to cook after removal, always pull it out a few degrees early.
Let It Rest
Cutting too soon makes the juices run out, leaving dry meat. Be patient!
Cut Against the Grain
Slicing the wrong way makes the meat tough. Look for the lines in the meat and cut perpendicular to them.
Best Side Dishes for Prime Rib
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery, and the perfect partner for Slow Roasted Prime Rib.
Wedge Salad
A crisp, refreshing contrast to the richness of Boneless Prime Rib Roast.
Homemade Rolls
Soft, fluffy rolls soak up every bit of the delicious pan drippings.
Roasted Vegetables
Adds a splash of color and a healthy balance to your Smoked Prime Rib feast.
Au Jus or Horseradish Sauce
A classic pairing that elevates any Prime Rib Roast Recipe.
Perfect Prime Rib Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 prime rib roast bone-in or boneless, about 5-7 lbs
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme chopped
Instructions
- Let the Meat Rest: Remove the prime rib roast from the fridge at least 1 hour before cooking. Lightly salt and cover with plastic wrap.
- Prepare Herb Rub: In a bowl, mix salt, pepper, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Rub this mixture evenly over the entire roast.
- Preheat Oven: Set oven to 500°F (260°C). Place roast in a cast iron skillet or roasting pan (bone-in with bones down, boneless on a rack).
- Sear the Meat: Roast at 500°F for 15 minutes to develop a flavorful crust.
- Lower Temperature: Reduce heat to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting. Cook 10-12 min per pound for rare, 13-14 min per pound for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Check Doneness:
- Rare: 115-120°F
- Medium Rare: 125-130°F
- Medium: 135-140°F
- Medium Well: 145-150°F
- Rest the Meat: Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let rest 30 minutes before carving.
- Carve and Serve: Slice against the grain and serve with sides like mashed potatoes and roasted veggies.
Notes
- Always use a meat thermometer for best results.
- If using a boneless prime rib roast, place it on a rack to ensure even cooking.
- The carryover cooking effect means the meat will rise 5-10°F after being removed from the oven.
Cooking a Prime Rib Recipe at home isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating unforgettable meals. Whether you go for Smoked Prime Rib Roast, Grilled Prime Rib, or Boneless Prime Rib Roast, the key is in the technique. Follow this guide, and you’ll have a perfectly cooked prime rib roast oven every time.
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