The holidays have a way of filling the kitchen with sounds and smells that feel like home. The sizzle of roasting beef, the buttery perfume of garlic, and the whisper of herbs mingling in the oven that’s the spirit of Christmas dinner. This Garlic Herb Prime Rib delivers all that comfort in one glorious roast, making every slice feel like celebration itself.
Table of Contents
What is Prime Rib?
Prime Rib, also known as a standing rib roast, comes from the rib section of the cow. It’s one of the most tender and flavorful cuts of beef. The marbling melts as it cooks, creating a juicy, rich texture that feels like pure luxury on the plate.
Certified Piedmontese beef takes it a step further. It’s naturally leaner yet still tender, raised without hormones or antibiotics. It’s a mindful choice that never compromises flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Herb Prime Rib
- Crispy garlic herb crust that tastes incredible
- Tender pink center every time
- Simple prep with restaurant-worthy results
- Perfect for holidays or any family gathering
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Prime Rib
- Certified Piedmontese Standing Rib Roast (or equivalent)
- Salt and pepper
For the Garlic Herb Butter
- 1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, very softened
- 3–4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Garlic Herb Prime Rib
Step 1: Prepare the Roast
First, take the roast out of the fridge and let it sit for at least one hour. This helps it cook evenly. Pat it dry, then season it generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Butter
Next, mix the softened butter with garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. The butter should look creamy and fragrant, ready to coat the beef.
Step 3: Rub and Roast
Rub the garlic herb butter all over the roast, pressing it into every crevice. Then place the roast on a wire rack in a roasting pan. Start roasting at high heat, about 450°F, to form a beautiful crust. After about 15–20 minutes, lower the oven temperature. Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium rare.
Step 4: Rest and Slice
Once done, remove the roast and let it rest for at least 20 minutes. This step locks in all those savory juices. Then, slice into ¼-inch thick pieces using a sharp knife. The result is juicy, tender perfection.
Pro Tips for Perfect Prime Rib
- Always start with a thawed roast if using frozen beef.
- Bring meat to room temperature for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Resting time matters; never skip it.
- A wire rack ensures even browning and air circulation.
Suggested Sides
Pair your Garlic Herb Prime Rib with Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Creamed Spinach Casserole, or Easy Beef Gravy. You can also try Garlic Herb Roasted Veggies for a colorful, flavorful balance.
For a lighter contrast, Lemon Herb Mediterranean Pasta Salad works beautifully. And if you’re planning a complete dinner spread, Easy Dinner Roll Recipe Without Yeast will round out the meal perfectly.
Want a fun starter? Try Zucchini Garlic Bites for a crispy, garlicky appetizer.
Garlic Herb Prime Rib Recipe Card
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Garlic Herb Prime Rib | Amazing Holiday Roast Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A show-stopping Prime Rib roast rubbed with garlic herb butter and roasted to a tender, pink perfection. Ideal for holidays or special occasions.
Ingredients
Prime Rib Roast:
Certified Piedmontese Standing Rib Roast (or equivalent)
Salt and pepper, generously for seasoning
Garlic Herb Butter:
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, very softened
3–4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Bring the roast to room temperature for at least 1 hour before cooking.
2. Preheat oven to high temperature (about 450°F).
3. Mix softened butter with chopped garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper to form garlic herb butter.
4. Rub garlic herb butter generously over the entire surface of the roast, focusing on the top.
5. Place roast on a wire rack inside a roasting pan.
6. Roast at high heat to form a crust, then reduce oven temperature and roast low and slow until internal temp reaches about 125°F for medium rare.
7. Remove from oven and let rest to retain juices before slicing.
8. Slice into ¼-inch thick slices using a sharp knife.
Notes
Prime Rib is traditionally served medium rare (125°F internal temperature).
Ensure roast is fully defrosted ahead of time if frozen.
Room temperature roast = more even cooking.
Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Resting after cooking helps retain juices.
Use a roasting pan with a wire rack for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 2 hrs
- Category: Christmas Dinner Ideas
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
More Such Recipes
Looking for more cozy, satisfying recipes? Try Easy Crockpot Steak Bites or Roasted Zucchini Squash simple and delicious options for weeknight comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What herb goes with prime rib?
Rosemary, thyme, and garlic are classic choices. They bring out the beef’s natural richness without overpowering it.
What is a good seasoning to put on a prime rib?
A blend of salt, black pepper, minced garlic, and fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme gives the roast deep, savory flavor.
What is the secret to making perfect prime rib
Room temperature meat, high-heat sear, slow roasting, and proper resting are key. These steps guarantee tenderness and juicy slices.
How to infuse flavor into prime rib?
Use a generous garlic herb butter rub and let it soak into the meat. As it roasts, the butter melts, carrying those flavors deep inside.
Final Thoughts
A Garlic Herb Prime Rib isn’t just dinner; it’s a memory in the making. The crackle of the crust, the warmth of garlic and rosemary, and the laughter around the table turn it into something more than food.
Try this recipe for your next Christmas dinner or family gathering. Then come back and tell me how it went or share a photo on Pinterest or Facebook. Cooking, after all, tastes better when shared.