Prime Rib Roast
A Classic and Impressive Holiday Centerpiece
Celebrate special occasions with this perfectly seasoned and roasted Prime Rib Roast recipe. Juicy, tender, and full of rich flavor, this impressive main course is surprisingly simple to prepare. With a flavorful herb crust and perfectly roasted interior, this prime rib is guaranteed to be the star of your table.
PREP TIME: 20 minutes
COOK TIME: 2 hours
COURSE: Main Course
CUISINE: American
SERVINGS: 6-8 servings
EQUIPMENT:
- Roasting pan with rack
- Meat thermometer
- Small mixing bowl
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil
- Carving knife
INGREDIENTS:
- 1 (4-6 pound) prime rib roast (bone-in or boneless)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Prepare the Roast
- Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator at least 1 hour before cooking to bring it to room temperature.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Pat the roast dry with paper towels and place it on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan.
Step 2: Season the Prime Rib
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Rub the herb mixture evenly over the entire surface of the roast.
- Ensure the roast is fat-side up for optimal flavor and self-basting during cooking.
Step 3: Roast to Perfection
- Place the roast in the preheated oven and cook at 450°F for 15 minutes to create a flavorful crust.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting for about 1 hour 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches:
- 120°F (49°C) for rare
- 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare
- 140°F (60°C) for medium
- Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast for accurate results.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
- Remove the prime rib from the oven and tent loosely with aluminum foil.
- Let the roast rest for 20-30 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
- Carve into thick slices using a sharp carving knife and serve warm.
TIPS:
- Allowing the roast to come to room temperature ensures even cooking.
- A bone-in roast tends to be more flavorful and juicy.
- Save the pan drippings to make a rich au jus or gravy.
KEYWORD: Prime Rib Roast, Holiday Dinner, Beef Roast
Last updated: February 16, 2026
