Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast

Juicy, tender, and beautifully seasoned, this Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast is the ultimate centerpiece for any special occasion. Featuring a mouthwatering crust of garlic, herbs, and spices, this roast delivers a perfect balance of crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth, pink center. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast, a family gathering, or an elegant dinner, this luxurious roast embodies flavor, elegance, and simplicity all in one masterpiece.

Introduction

Prime rib is not just a meal — it’s an experience. With its rich marbling, tender texture, and robust beef flavor, prime rib has earned its place at celebratory tables across generations. This herb-crusted version elevates the classic roast with aromatic garlic, fresh herbs, and a perfectly seasoned crust that seals in the juices while enhancing flavor. Slow-roasted to perfection, the meat develops a crisp exterior while the inside remains beautifully pink, buttery, and succulent.

Ingredients

For the Roast:

• 1 (5–7 lb / 2.5–3.5 kg) bone-in prime rib roast

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 4 tablespoons olive oil

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• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon coarse salt (Kosher or sea salt)

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• 2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for extra crust)

For Serving (Optional):

• Au jus (pan drippings with broth)

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• Horseradish cream sauce

• Roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes

Instructions

1. Prepare the Roast
Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator 1–2 hours before cooking to bring it to room temperature. Pat dry with paper towels — this helps with browning.

2. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

3. Prepare the Herb Butter Rub
In a bowl, mix softened butter, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, parsley, salt, pepper, onion powder, and paprika. Add Dijon mustard if using. Stir until fully combined.

4. Season the Meat
Rub the herb mixture generously all over the roast, making sure to cover the sides, top, and fat layer.

5. Roast at High Heat
Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan, fat side up. Roast for 15–20 minutes at high heat to develop a flavorful crust.

6. Lower the Temperature
Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting for:

• Rare: 1 hr 15 min, or until internal temp reaches 120°F (49°C)

• Medium-Rare: 1 hr 30 min, or until 130°F (54°C)

• Medium: 1 hr 45 min, or until 140°F (60°C)

Tip: Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

7. Rest the Roast
Remove from the oven and loosely tent with foil. Let rest 20–30 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in tender, juicy slices.

8. Slice and Serve
Slice along the bone for thick steak-style cuts, or into thinner slices depending on preference. Serve with pan drippings, horseradish cream, or gravy.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this magnificent roast with:

• Garlic mashed potatoes

• Roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus

• Yorkshire pudding

• Creamy horseradish sauce

• Red wine reduction or simple au jus

Serve as the shining centerpiece of a holiday meal or a formal dinner gathering.

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freeze: Slice and wrap tightly in foil or freezer bags for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to maintain tenderness — avoid microwaving.

Conclusion

This Herb-Crusted Prime Rib Roast delivers everything a luxurious roast should — perfectly seasoned, deeply flavorful, crispy on the outside, and tender and pink on the inside. It’s a stunning showpiece for special occasions and a comforting, nostalgic favorite for family gatherings. Once you master this simple yet elegant recipe, it will become a go-to tradition year after year.