Description

Few dishes capture the essence of a special occasion like a perfectly roasted prime rib. This Tender & Savory Classic Garlic Butter Prime Rib combines rich, juicy beef with aromatic garlic and fresh herbs, creating a meal that’s both impressive and comforting. Ideal for family gatherings, celebratory dinners, or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor to your home kitchen. With a simple yet flavorful garlic butter, careful seasoning, and slow roasting, even novice cooks can achieve a tender, juicy roast that’s sure to become a favorite tradition.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (5–6 lb) bone-in prime rib roast
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/4 cup olive oil
Optional garnish: fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs

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Instructions

Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator at least 2 hours before cooking and pat dry.
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, and thyme to make garlic herb butter.
Mix kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and paprika, then rub evenly over the roast. Drizzle with olive oil.
Spread half of the garlic butter over the roast; reserve the rest for basting.
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C). Place roast fat side up on a rack in a roasting pan.
Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes to create a crust.
Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until desired doneness: rare 120–130°F, medium-rare 130–135°F, medium 135–145°F.
Baste every 30 minutes with remaining garlic butter.
Remove from oven and tent loosely with foil. Rest 20–30 minutes before slicing.
Carve against the grain and serve with preferred sides, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Bone-in roasts offer more flavor, but boneless works as well with slightly reduced cooking time.
Letting the roast reach room temperature ensures even cooking.
Garlic butter can be customized with parsley, chives, or Dijon mustard.
Seasoning and preparing the roast the night before enhances flavor and reduces stress on cooking day.
Resting meat is crucial for juicy, tender slices.
Ideal sides include roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2.5–3.5 hours