Traditional Oven-Roasted Prime Rib

This traditional oven-roasted prime rib recipe yields a perfectly tender, juicy, and flavorful roast, ideal for special occasions or a family dinner.

Ingredients

  • 1 (5 to 6 pounds) standing rib roast (prime rib)
  • 2 tablespoons coarse sea salt or kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary leaves, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)

Instructions

  1. Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 2 hours before cooking. This ensures even cooking.
  2. Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C).
  3. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, minced garlic, olive oil, thyme, and rosemary to create a rub.
  4. Place the prime rib on a roasting rack inside a roasting pan. Generously coat the outside of the rib roast with the herb and garlic rub.
  5. Roast the prime rib in the preheated oven for 20 minutes.
  6. After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting. Estimate about 15 minutes of cooking time per pound for medium-rare.
  7. Once the roast reaches your desired level of doneness, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
  8. Carve the roast into slices and serve.