Garlic Herb Prime Rib is a classic holiday roast with a beautifully browned crust and a tender, juicy center. A simple mixture of garlic, fresh herbs, butter, and seasonings gives the beef rich flavor without overpowering it.
Why This Recipe Works
- Tender and juicy: Slow roasting helps keep the prime rib succulent.
- Flavorful crust: Garlic, herbs, and butter create a delicious outer layer.
- Perfect for holidays: It makes an impressive centerpiece for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or special dinners.
Ingredients
- 5–6 lb bone-in prime rib roast
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
How to Make Garlic Herb Prime Rib
1. Prepare the Roast
Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator about 1 hour before cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels and place it bone-side down in a roasting pan.
2. Make the Garlic Herb Butter
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, onion powder, and Dijon mustard.
3. Season the Beef
Rub the olive oil over the roast, then spread the garlic herb butter generously over all sides of the beef.
4. Roast
Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Roast the prime rib for 15 minutes to develop a browned crust.
Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the desired internal temperature is reached.
For medium-rare, remove the roast when the center reaches about 125–130°F (52–54°C). The temperature will continue to rise while resting.
5. Rest the Prime Rib
Remove the roast from the oven and loosely cover it with foil. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes before slicing.
6. Slice and Serve
Slice the prime rib against the grain into thick portions. Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, or your favorite holiday sides.
Tips for the Best Prime Rib
- Let the roast sit at room temperature before cooking for more even roasting.
- Use a meat thermometer for the most accurate doneness.
- Don’t skip the resting period, as it helps keep the meat juicy.
- Fresh rosemary and thyme provide the best herb flavor.
- For a deeper crust, make sure the outside of the roast is completely dry before seasoning.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Herb Prime Rib is rich, tender, and packed with savory garlic and fresh herb flavor. It’s an impressive centerpiece that’s perfect for a special Christmas or holiday dinner.
