Classic Prime Rib

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Craving a show-stopping main course that practically carves itself? This Classic Prime Rib recipe is the epitome of rich, juicy beef perfection with a flavorful crust that crackles as you slice through. It promises that melt-in-your-mouth texture, crowned by a peppery-garlicky bark that roasts to a dark golden finish.

Perfect for the holidays or any celebratory feast, prime rib isn’t just dinner—it’s a centerpiece. Whether you’re aiming to impress dinner guests or simply treat yourself, this roast delivers in flavor, presentation, and satisfaction.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this classic to life, you’ll need a few essentials that ensure your prime rib is cooked evenly and remains succulent inside:

• Roasting Pan with Rack: Elevates the meat so hot air can circulate, leading to even roasting and a beautiful crust.
• Meat Thermometer (Digital preferred): Essential for nailing that perfect medium-rare or whatever doneness you desire. Never guess your roast’s temperature!
• Sharp Carving Knife or Electric Knife: Makes clean, smooth cuts without tearing the meat.
• Heavy-Duty Aluminum Foil: Helps with tenting the roast while resting, retaining all those flavorful juices.
• Mixing Bowl & Spoon: To create your herb crust rub and seasonings.

These tools ensure control over every stage, from prep to plating.

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Ingredients for the Classic Prime Rib

When it comes to making a prime rib that turns heads, each ingredient plays a role in enhancing the roast’s natural richness and building that iconic crust.

• Prime Rib Roast (bone-in): The star of the show. Bone-in adds flavor and helps retain moisture during cooking.
• Kosher Salt: Draws out moisture initially, then forms the base for a well-seasoned crust.
• Coarsely Ground Black Pepper: Provides boldness and texture to the outer layer.
• Fresh Garlic (minced): Infuses the meat with aromatic depth and pairs beautifully with the pepper crust.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: Helps the seasonings adhere and encourages even browning.
• Fresh Herbs (like rosemary and thyme): Optional but elevates the aroma and adds a woodsy touch.

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How To Make the Classic Prime Rib

Step 1: Prep the Roast

Remove the roast from the fridge at least 2 hours before cooking to let it come to room temperature. This ensures even cooking from edge to center.

Step 2: Season Generously

In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and olive oil (or melted butter) into a paste. Rub the mixture all over the roast, including the sides and underneath. If using fresh herbs, press them gently into the rub.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 500°F (or as high as it safely goes) for an initial blast that builds a strong sear on the outside.

Step 4: Roast High and Low

Place the roast bone-side down on a rack in your roasting pan. Roast at 500°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F and continue roasting until your desired internal temperature is reached (about 15 minutes per pound for medium-rare).

Step 5: Check the Temperature

Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. For medium-rare, aim for 120-125°F before resting. The temp will rise as it rests.

Step 6: Rest Before Slicing

Tent loosely with foil and let the roast rest for 20-30 minutes. This step is key to keeping juices inside. Slice against the grain and serve immediately.

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Serving and Storing Your Prime Rib

Prime rib is all about the dramatic reveal and the melt-in-your-mouth moment that follows. For serving, slice thick or thin based on preference, always against the grain. Plate with roasted garlic, charred onions, or a spoonful of au jus for that steakhouse-style touch.

As for storage, let leftovers cool completely before sealing them in an airtight container. Prime rib keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so low and slow to preserve its tenderness—the oven at 250°F works best, wrapped in foil.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much prime rib should I plan per person?

For bone-in roasts, plan on about 1 pound per person. If you’re serving hearty sides or appetizers, you might stretch it to 3/4 pound per guest.

Should I remove the bones before roasting?

No need. The bones add flavor and act as a natural roasting rack. You can ask your butcher to “french” the bones or cut and tie them for easier carving.

What internal temperature should I aim for?

For medium-rare, pull the roast at 120-125°F. It will rise to 130-135°F as it rests. For medium, go up to 135°F before resting.

Can I season the roast the night before?

Absolutely. Salting overnight enhances flavor and improves the crust. Just keep it uncovered in the fridge to dry out the surface for a better sear.

What’s the best knife to use when slicing?

A long, sharp carving knife or an electric knife works beautifully. Slice in smooth motions to maintain the structure and juiciness.

Can I freeze leftover prime rib?

Yes. Wrap slices tightly in foil and place in a freezer bag. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently to avoid drying it out.

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Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If you’re craving more hearty beef-centered meals after savoring this Classic Prime Rib, you’re in for a treat.

You might love the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta — a creamy, comforting skillet dish that turns simple pasta into a family favorite. For a rich and deeply satisfying spoonful, the Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew Recipe brings together tender chunks of beef with earthy vegetables in a thick broth.

Craving something with a bit of spice? The Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta blends steak with heat and creaminess in every bite. And if you’re in the mood for cozy nostalgia, the Easy Homemade Beefaroni takes you back to childhood, only better.

Or keep things skillet-simple with my One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta—a bold dish that balances richness with zippy garlic heat.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your beef dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you try a garlic rub? Did you go heavy on the herbs? Leave a comment below or tag me on social media.

For more daily recipes and table inspiration, be sure to check out my Pinterest boards at LadyPlate on Pinterest.

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