A prime rib roast is the epitome of a showstopping meal. This recipe will guide you through the process of achieving a perfectly cooked prime rib with a beautifully seasoned crust and a juicy, tender interior. Whether you’re serving a holiday feast or a special occasion dinner, this prime rib recipe is bound to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the Prime Rib:
- 1 bone-in prime rib roast (about 5-7 pounds)
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Au Jus (Optional):
- Pan drippings from the roast
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Prime Rib
- Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator at least one hour before cooking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Step 2: Season the Roast
- In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Rub the herb and garlic mixture all over the surface of the prime rib. Ensure it’s evenly coated.
Step 3: Roasting
- Place the seasoned prime rib on a rack in a roasting pan, rib-side down.
- Roast at 450°F for 15-20 minutes to sear the meat and develop a flavorful crust.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting. Plan for about 15 minutes of cooking time per pound for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. The roast is ready when the thermometer reads 130-135°F (54-57°C) for medium-rare.
Step 4: Resting
- Once the roast reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and place it on a cutting board.
- Loosely tent the roast with aluminum foil and let it rest for 20-30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicy and tender roast.
Step 5: Au Jus (Optional)
- While the roast is resting, you can make a simple au jus by deglazing the roasting pan with beef broth and red wine, if desired. Season with salt and black pepper.
- Simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 6: Carving
- Carve the prime rib into slices and serve with the au jus.
Notes:
- You can adjust the level of doneness by using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F (54-57°C); for medium, aim for 140-145°F (60-63°C); for medium-well, aim for 150-155°F (65-68°C).
- The bone-in roast tends to have more flavor, but you can use a boneless prime rib if you prefer.
- Remember that the roast will continue to cook as it rests, so take it out of the oven when it’s a few degrees below your desired temperature.
Perfect Prime Rib is an exquisite and timeless dish, fit for any special occasion. Its flavorful herb crust and juicy interior make it a meal to remember. Serve it with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables, for a complete and indulgent feast.