This Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast Will Steal the Holiday Spotlight

This bone-in prime rib roast is the ultimate holiday centerpiece. Seasoned generously, slathered with a garlic herb compound butter, and slow-roasted to perfection, it’s tender, juicy, and full of bold flavor.

With just a few simple steps, you can make this impressive prime rib recipe at home and wow your guests.

Why This Prime Rib Roast Recipe Works

Prime rib has a reputation for being tricky, but it’s actually one of the easiest show-stopping roasts you can make. By starting with high heat to sear the outside and then shutting off the oven, the rib roast cooks evenly while staying juicy and tender.

The compound butter with rosemary, thyme, garlic paste, and herbs de Provence adds layers of flavor and creates a golden crust. Plus, the pan drippings transform into a rich, velvety gravy with red wine and beef stock.

Watch Me Make This Prime Rib Recipe

Juicy Prime Rib Ingredients

• 1 bone-in rib roast (4–5 lbs, 2 bones)
• 1 stick of butter, room temperature
• 1 quart beef stock
• 1 cup red wine
• 1 tbsp diced rosemary and thyme
• 1 tbsp herbs de Provence
• 1–2 tbsp garlic paste
• Salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder (for seasoning)
• Smoked paprika or BBQ rub (such as Killer Hogs THE BBQ Rub)
• 1 onion, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• Slurry: 2 tbsp cornstarch + 4 tbsp cold water

Step-by-Step Prime Rib Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Rib Roast

Remove the 4–5 lb rib roast from the fridge 2 hours before cooking. This brings the meat to room temperature for even cooking.

Season generously on all sides with kosher salt and let rest while you prepare the butter.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Compound Butter

In a bowl, combine 1 stick room temperature butter, 1 tbsp diced rosemary and thyme, 1 tbsp herbs de Provence, and 1–2 tbsp garlic paste.

Mix until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Build Flavor in the Roasting Pan

In a roasting pan, layer 1 onion (halved), 2 carrots, and 2 celery stalks. Add 1 cup red wine and 1 quart beef stock.

Place a roasting rack on top of the veggies. These aromatics will steam the roast and create flavorful drippings for the gravy.

Step 4: Season the Roast

Sprinkle the rib roast with garlic powder, onion powder, freshly cracked black pepper, and a light coat of smoked paprika or BBQ rub.

Massage the garlic herb butter evenly over the roast, covering all sides.

Step 5: Roast the Prime Rib

Place the roast on the rack. Cook at 500°F for 5 minutes per pound (about 25 minutes for a 5-lb roast).

Then, turn the oven OFF and leave the roast inside for 2 hours without opening the door. This method locks in juices and ensures perfect doneness.

Step 6: Make the Pan Gravy

While the roast rests (30–45 minutes), pour the pan drippings into a saucepan. Add 1 tbsp beef base (such as Better Than Bouillon) and whisk.

Mix the slurry (2 tbsp cornstarch + 4 tbsp cold water), add to the pan, and bring to a boil.

Reduce the heat and simmer until thickened into a smooth gravy.

Step 7: Slice and Serve

Cut off the butcher’s twine, remove the bones, and slice the roast into thick, juicy slices.

Tips for the Best Prime Rib

Serve with the red wine beef gravy and enjoy the show-stopping centerpiece of your holiday meal.

• Use a thermometer: For medium-rare, aim for 130–135°F.
• Let it rest: A 30–45 minute rest locks in juices before slicing.
• Don’t skip the butter: The garlic herb butter creates that golden, flavorful crust.

What to Serve with Prime Rib Roast

This roast pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, Yorkshire pudding, or garlic butter dinner rolls. The rich gravy ties everything together for a holiday-worthy feast.

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