Perfect Prime Rib Roast (Juicy, Tender & Restaurant-Style)

Prime Rib Roast is one of the most luxurious and impressive beef dishes you can serve. With its rich marbling, deep beef flavor, and melt-in-your-mouth texture, this roast is perfect for holidays, special dinners, or when you simply want to cook something unforgettable.

This step-by-step guide will show you how to cook prime rib perfectly every single time, even if it’s your first attempt.

 What Is Prime Rib?

Prime rib comes from the rib section of the cow and is known for:

• High fat marbling
• Incredible tenderness
• Juicy, beefy flavor

It can be cooked bone-in or boneless, and is usually served medium-rare, which is when it’s at its absolute best.

 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

For the Prime Rib:

• 1 prime rib roast (4–6 pounds / 2–3 kg)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

Optional (for extra flavor):

• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

 Preparation (Very Important Step)

1. Bring the meat to room temperature
   Take the prime rib out of the fridge at least 2 hours before cooking.
   This ensures even cooking and prevents a raw center.
2. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C)
3. Pat the meat dry using paper towels. This helps form a beautiful crust.

 Seasoning the Prime Rib

In a bowl, mix:

• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic
• Salt
• Pepper
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Paprika

Rub this mixture all over the roast, making sure to cover:

• Top
• Sides
• Bottom

Massage the seasoning deeply into the meat.

 Cooking Method (Fail-Proof)

Step 1: High-Heat Sear

• Place the prime rib fat-side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
• Put it in the oven at 450°F (230°C) for 20 minutes
  This locks in juices and creates a crust.

Step 2: Slow Roast

• Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C)
• Continue roasting:

Doneness	Internal Temp	Time per Pound
Rare	120°F / 49°C	12–13 min
Medium-Rare (BEST)	130°F / 54°C	13–15 min
Medium	140°F / 60°C	15–17 min

Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

 Resting (DO NOT SKIP)

• Remove roast from oven
• Cover loosely with foil
• Let rest 20–30 minutes

The temperature will rise 5–10 degrees while resting.

This step makes the meat juicy and tender, not dry.

 How to Slice Prime Rib

• Use a sharp carving knife
• Slice against the grain
• Thickness: about ½ inch (1–1.5 cm)

Serve with the natural juices from the pan.

Best Side Dishes for Prime Rib

• Creamy mashed potatoes
• Roasted garlic potatoes
• Green beans with butter
• Yorkshire pudding
• Horseradish sauce
• Simple green salad