If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next special meal, the Smashing Roasted Prime Rib is the answer you’ve been searching for. This classic roast is everything you want in a celebratory dish: deeply savory, crusted with herbs, and boasting a buttery, tender interior that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s a festive holiday or just a well-deserved splurge, this recipe delivers unforgettable flavor and juicy perfection. Let’s dive into how you can create Smashing Roasted Prime Rib at home, impress your guests, and make magical memories around your table.

Smashing Roasted Prime Rib Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Smashing Roasted Prime Rib lies in its simple ingredients, each playing a vital role in layering flavor and building that iconic, mouthwatering crust. Don’t skimp on freshness—quality makes all the difference in a dish as special as this.

Prime rib roast (bone-in, 4-6 lbs): The star of the show—choose a well-marbled, bone-in roast for maximum flavor and tenderness.
Olive oil (3 tablespoons): Helps the seasonings adhere and encourages a beautiful, crackly crust.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds a bold, aromatic punch that permeates the roast.
Fresh rosemary (1 tablespoon, chopped): Lends a piney, citrusy lift that pairs perfectly with beef.
Fresh thyme (1 tablespoon, chopped): Delivers earthy, slightly minty notes for balance.
Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon): Provides tang and helps the crust form a lovely golden color.
Kosher salt (2 teaspoons): Essential for seasoning the meat inside and out—don’t be shy!
Black pepper (1 teaspoon): Freshly cracked pepper gives a gentle heat and aromatic depth.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon, optional): Adds a hint of smoky sweetness for extra complexity.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon, optional): Brings a touch of savory warmth to the rub.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Used for the optional gravy, adding richness and silkiness.
All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Thickens the gravy to just the right consistency.
Beef broth (2 cups): Forms the luscious base of the optional gravy, enhancing the roast’s flavor.

How to Make Smashing Roasted Prime Rib

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by heating your oven to 450°F (230°C). This initial blast of heat is crucial for creating that signature, caramelized crust on your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib. Trust me, it’s worth waiting for the oven to get nice and hot before you even think about the roast.

Step 2: Pat the Roast Dry

Grab some paper towels and pat your prime rib roast thoroughly dry. Removing extra moisture is the secret to achieving a crispy, golden exterior—don’t skip this step! A dry surface means the seasonings will stick better and the crust will form beautifully.

Step 3: Make the Flavor Rub

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if using), and onion powder (if using). This mixture is an absolute powerhouse of flavor and will infuse every bite of your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib with herbaceous, garlicky goodness.

Step 4: Rub the Roast

Now for the fun part! Massage the flavorful mixture all over the prime rib, making sure to coat every nook and cranny. Use your hands—don’t be shy! This not only seasons the meat but also helps create that unforgettable crust Smashing Roasted Prime Rib is known for.

Step 5: Ready the Pan

Set your seasoned roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan. The rack keeps the meat elevated so hot air can circulate and the fat can render beautifully. If you don’t have a rack, a bed of thick-cut veggies (like carrots or onions) works in a pinch.

Step 6: Start Roasting High

Roast the prime rib at 450°F (230°C) for 20 minutes. This high heat locks in the juices and jumpstarts that incredible crust. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing—resist the urge to open the oven!

Step 7: Lower the Heat and Finish Roasting

Reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for 15-20 minutes per pound. For doneness, aim for 120°F (rare), 130°F (medium-rare), or 140°F (medium) when checked with a meat thermometer in the thickest part. This step is key to nailing your preferred level of doneness for your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib.

Step 8: Rest the Roast

Once it’s perfectly roasted, transfer the prime rib to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This rest is non-negotiable! It allows the juices to redistribute, giving you slices that are tender and outrageously juicy.

Step 9: Make the Optional Gravy

If you’re up for gravy (and who isn’t?), melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for a minute, then slowly add beef broth while whisking to prevent lumps. Simmer until thickened and rich—this silky sauce takes your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib over the top.

Step 10: Carve and Serve

Slice your rested prime rib against the grain for maximum tenderness. Arrange on a platter, drizzle with gravy if you like, and watch everyone’s eyes light up as you bring this beauty to the table!

How to Serve Smashing Roasted Prime Rib

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs—think rosemary or parsley—adds a pop of color and aroma. For a classic steakhouse touch, a dusting of flaky sea salt or a few turns of black pepper right before serving make each bite of Smashing Roasted Prime Rib truly sing. If you love horseradish, a dollop of creamy horseradish sauce is the perfect sharp, tangy foil to the beef.

Side Dishes

This roast begs for elegant yet comforting sides. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted root veggies, or buttery Yorkshire puddings are timeless pairs. Don’t forget a crisp green salad or garlicky sautéed greens for freshness—they balance the richness and let your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib shine.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dramatic holiday presentation, serve your roast on a large wooden board surrounded by rosemary sprigs and roasted garlic bulbs. Individual thick-cut slices plated with a swirl of gravy look restaurant-worthy. Or, go family-style and let everyone carve their own slice at the table, making the Smashing Roasted Prime Rib the true star of your gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftover Smashing Roasted Prime Rib to cool completely, then wrap slices tightly in foil or store in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. The key is to keep air out to prevent the meat from drying, so wrap it well and enjoy those flavors all week long!

Freezing

Prime rib freezes beautifully! Slice any leftovers, wrap each portion individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. When you’re ready for a treat, just thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To keep your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib tender and juicy, reheat slices gently in a low oven (around 250°F/120°C) with a splash of beef broth or gravy, covered with foil. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to dry out the meat. Warmed this way, your leftovers will taste almost as glorious as the day you made them!

FAQs

How far in advance can I season the prime rib?

You can rub down your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, letting it sit overnight uncovered in the fridge gives the seasonings more time to penetrate and helps dry out the surface for an even crispier crust. Just take it out 1 hour before roasting so it’s not ice-cold.

Do I need to tie the roast with kitchen twine?

Tying the roast isn’t strictly necessary if your prime rib is already well-shaped, but it can help maintain a uniform shape for even cooking and easier carving. If you do tie it, just use a few loops of kitchen twine spaced evenly along the roast.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Substitute one-third the amount of dried herbs for fresh (so, about 1 teaspoon each of dried rosemary and thyme). The flavor will still be wonderful, though fresh herbs make the Smashing Roasted Prime Rib extra vibrant and aromatic.

What’s the best way to check doneness?

A meat thermometer is your best friend here. Insert it into the thickest part, away from the bone. For rare, pull the roast at 120°F; for medium-rare, 130°F; for medium, 140°F. Remember, the temperature will rise a little as it rests.

Is the gravy essential?

The roast is spectacular on its own, but the optional gravy adds an extra layer of richness and is a great way to use up all those delicious pan drippings. Serve it on the side so everyone can help themselves!

Final Thoughts

Few dishes match the wow-factor and comfort of a Smashing Roasted Prime Rib. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or just want to treat yourself and loved ones to something extraordinary, this recipe is sure to bring everyone together. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create restaurant-worthy results in your own kitchen!

Smashing Roasted Prime Rib Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Smashing Roasted Prime Rib recipe offers a perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful prime rib roast with a crispy herb crust. Ideal for special occasions, it features a simple herb and garlic rub, slow roasting for tenderness, and an optional rich beef gravy to elevate the dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Prime Rib Roast

1 (4-6 lbs) prime rib roast (bone-in)
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
1 teaspoon onion powder (optional)

Gravy (Optional)

1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 cups beef broth

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) to ensure high heat for creating a crispy crust on the prime rib roast.
Prepare the roast: Pat the prime rib dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove moisture, which helps in developing a great crust during roasting.
Make the herb rub: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Mix well to form a fragrant herb paste.
Apply the rub: Generously rub the herb mixture all over the entire surface of the prime rib roast, ensuring it is evenly coated to infuse flavor and aid crust formation.
Place in roasting pan: Position the prime rib roast bone-side down on a rack inside a roasting pan. This allows heat to circulate evenly and the meat to cook uniformly.
Start roasting hot: Roast the prime rib at 450°F (230°C) for 20 minutes to sear the outside and lock in juices.
Lower temperature and continue cooking: Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue roasting for 15-20 minutes per pound depending on desired doneness. Target internal temps are 120°F (49°C) for rare, 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare, and 140°F (60°C) for medium.
Rest the roast: Remove from oven and let the roast rest uncovered for 15-20 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy, tender slices.
Prepare optional gravy: In a pan over medium heat, melt butter, then whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in beef broth, bring to a simmer, and cook until the gravy thickens to desired consistency.
Serve: Carve the prime rib and serve with the optional gravy, enjoying a rich and flavorful meal.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature accurately for perfect doneness.
Letting the meat rest after cooking is crucial for juicy prime rib.
Smoked paprika and onion powder are optional but add a smoky depth and additional flavor.
For a stronger herb flavor, you can add more rosemary or thyme according to preference.
If no roasting rack is available, place the roast on a bed of vegetables to lift it from the pan.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American