Herb-Crusted Prime Rib – Juicy, Flavorful Holiday Roast

The Crown Jewel of Holiday Meals

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of Herb-Crusted Prime Rib roasting in the oven. Golden on the outside, perfectly pink on the inside, and seasoned to perfection with a savory blend of herbs and garlic, this dish is the definition of indulgence and celebration. Whether you’re preparing it for Christmas dinner, a birthday feast, or just a “wow” moment at the table, this prime rib recipe delivers elegance, bold flavor, and unforgettable results.

And with the right technique, it’s easier than you think.

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🌟 Why This Recipe Works Every Time

• Crusty herb exterior: Adds flavor, texture, and visual appeal
• Juicy interior: Slow roasting ensures perfect doneness
• Make-ahead friendly: Season in advance for better flavor
• Minimal ingredients, maximum wow factor
• Ideal for large gatherings

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🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Prime Rib:

• 1 (5 to 7 lb) prime rib roast, bone-in or boneless
• 2 tbsp olive oil or softened unsalted butter
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
• 2 tsp chopped fresh thyme
• 1 tsp onion powder
• Optional: 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

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👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Bring the Meat to Room Temp

• Let the roast sit out for 1–2 hours before cooking to ensure even roasting.

2. Preheat and Prep

• Preheat oven to 450°F (232°C).
• Pat roast dry with paper towels.

3. Make the Herb Rub

• Mix oil or butter with garlic, herbs, salt, pepper, and onion powder.
• Rub the mixture all over the roast, pressing firmly into the meat.

4. Roast High, Then Low

• Place roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan.
• Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes.
• Reduce heat to 325°F and continue roasting until desired doneness:
  • 120–125°F for rare
  • 130–135°F for medium-rare
  • 140°F for medium
• This usually takes 15–20 minutes per pound.

5. Rest Before Slicing

• Remove from oven, tent with foil, and let rest for at least 20–30 minutes.
• Slice against the grain and serve with au jus or horseradish cream.

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🥩 Temperature Guide for Doneness

Doneness	Temp Before Rest	Temp After Rest
Rare	120–125°F	125–130°F
Medium Rare	130–135°F	135–140°F
Medium	140°F	145°F

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🍽️ Perfect Pairings

• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Yorkshire pudding
• Roasted root vegetables
• Caesar salad or green beans almondine
• Red wine (Cabernet, Syrah, or Merlot) or sparkling grape juice

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🔁 Variations and Add-Ons

• Garlic crust: Add more garlic and crushed peppercorn
• Mustard rub: Mix Dijon mustard with herbs for a zesty twist
• Horseradish crust: Add fresh grated horseradish to the rub
• Butter-basted: Baste during cooking with melted herbed butter
• Smoked version: Use a smoker for extra depth of flavor

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📦 Storage and Leftovers

• Fridge: Wrap tightly and store up to 4 days
• Freezer: Slice and freeze portions for up to 2 months
• Reheat: Warm gently in oven with broth or use in sandwiches and wraps

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📊 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 36g
• Sodium: 480mg
• Carbs: 1g

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🧠 Chef’s Tips

• Use a meat thermometer—this is the key to perfect doneness
• Let it rest fully—juices redistribute and meat becomes tender
• Salt the roast 24 hours ahead for deeper flavor
• Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste
• Slice thinly across the grain for the most tender cuts

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❓ FAQs

Q: Bone-in or boneless?
Bone-in delivers more flavor and presentation, but boneless is easier to carve.

Q: How much should I serve per person?
Estimate about ¾ to 1 pound per person for bone-in, slightly less for boneless.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
Yes—season the night before and refrigerate uncovered to dry the surface.

Q: What if I don’t have a roasting rack?
Use halved onions or carrots to elevate the roast off the pan.

Q: What sauces go with prime rib?
Horseradish cream, au jus, red wine reduction, or garlic herb butter.

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✅ Conclusion: The Ultimate Centerpiece Roast

Herb-Crusted Prime Rib is more than just a meal—it’s a centerpiece, a celebration, and a memory-maker. With its rich marbling, herbaceous crust, and perfect pink center, this dish proves that a simple roast can be truly spectacular. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday or a special gathering, this recipe ensures that every guest will leave impressed—and satisfied.

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