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Perfect Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast

garlic herb prime rib roast - featured image

A foolproof prime rib roast slathered with rosemary-garlic butter, slow-roasted to tender perfection, and finished with a high-heat sear for a gorgeous crust. Perfect for holiday feasts and special occasions.

Ingredients

  • Prime rib roast (bone-in, 4-6 pounds)
  • Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened)
  • Fresh garlic (6-8 cloves, minced)
  • Fresh rosemary (2 tablespoons, finely chopped)
  • Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, leaves removed from stems)
  • Kosher salt (2 teaspoons)
  • Freshly ground black pepper (1 teaspoon)
  • Olive oil (1 tablespoon)

Instructions

  1. Take the Chill Off: About 2 hours before cooking, remove the prime rib from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature, still wrapped.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Set oven to 450°F (232°C).
  3. Make the Rosemary Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme leaves, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix into a uniform paste.
  4. Slather the Roast: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the roast, then massage the rosemary butter over the entire surface.
  5. The High-Heat Sear: Place the roast fat-side up on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes.
  6. Turn Down the Heat: Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) without opening the door. Continue roasting. Total cooking time: about 15-20 minutes per pound after the initial sear for medium-rare.
  7. Use Your Thermometer: Start checking internal temperature about 30 minutes before you think it’ll be done. For medium-rare, aim for 120-125°F (49-52°C); for medium, 130-135°F (54-57°C).
  8. Rest, Rest, Rest: Remove roast from oven, transfer to a cutting board, tent loosely with aluminum foil, and let rest for at least 20-30 minutes.
  9. Carve and Serve: Remove twine if tied. Slice against the grain into 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch thick slices. Arrange on a platter and spoon accumulated juices over the top.

Notes

Don’t skip the resting time—it allows juices to redistribute. Invest in a good meat thermometer for perfect doneness. Watch the butter during the initial sear to prevent burning. Use pan drippings for au jus or gravy.

Nutrition

Keywords: prime rib, garlic herb prime rib, rosemary butter prime rib, holiday roast, Christmas dinner, beef roast