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Prime Rib Roast Recipe

Prime Rib Roast Recipe

Rich, succulent, and oh-so-easy to pull off, this Prime Rib Roast Recipe is your holiday showstopper.
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Prep Time 1 minute
Cook Time 1 minute
Total Time 2 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 (5-6 lb) prime rib roast (standing rib roast or bone-in ribeye)
  • 2 tbsp kosher salt (Morton or Diamond Crystal)
  • 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, leaves finely chopped (sub: 1 tsp dried)
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme, leaves stripped (sub: 1 tsp dried)
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced or pressed (about 4 tbsp)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature (KerryGold or Plugrá recommended)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (adds tang but can be omitted)
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika for a hint of warmth Optional

Instructions
 

  • Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place a wire rack on a rimmed baking sheet or roasting pan. You want air circulating under the roast.
  • In a small bowl, mash together butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, and olive oil—think compound butter.
  • Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Rub Dijon mustard all over, then coat evenly with salt and pepper. Slather the garlic-herb butter on every surface—don’t hold back!
  • Slide the roast into the hot oven for 15 minutes. This seals in juices and browns the exterior—no pan searing needed.
  • Without opening the door, reduce heat to 325°F (160°C). Roast until the internal temperature reads 115°F (46°C) for rare, 125°F (52°C) for medium-rare, or 135°F (57°C) for medium. Plan on about 15–17 minutes per pound for medium-rare.
  • Start probing with your digital thermometer 10 minutes before you think it’ll be done. Ovens vary—and nobody wants overcooked beef.
  • Transfer the roast to a carving board and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest 20–25 minutes. According to USDA guidelines, resting redistributes juices, yielding up to 15% more moisture retention.
  • Using a sharp slicing knife, cut between the bones if you like individual chops, or slice across for classic roast beef servings.
  • Arrange slices on a warmed platter. Spoon any pan juices or melted garlic butter over the top. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves for color.
  • Pair with au jus, horseradish cream, or my quick pan gravy. Don’t forget roasted potatoes and green beans for a complete holiday feast!

Notes

My first time testing this recipe, I over-salted—so trust your instinct and taste the rub before smearing. If your roast has a thick fat cap, trim to about ¼ for balanced richness. Letting the roast rest on a board with grooves prevents pooling juices that dilute flavor. A quick pan sauce with beef broth, shallots, and a pat of butter complements the buttery crust.
Keyword Beef Roast, Garlic Butter Rub, Holiday Dinner, Oven Roast, Prime Rib Roast
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