Smashing Roasted Prime Rib Recipe
If you’re ready to wow guests or create a showstopper for a special night at home, Smashing Roasted Prime Rib is your golden ticket. This juicy, aromatic beef roast is crusted with garlic, fresh herbs, and spices, then slow-roasted to achieve a deep, flavorful outer bark and a succulent, rosy-pink interior. Whether you’re hosting a holiday or just want to treat yourself, nothing beats the impressive look and unforgettable flavor of this Smashing Roasted Prime Rib.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of a perfect Smashing Roasted Prime Rib comes from a handful of straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and ensuring the meat turns out tender, juicy, and incredibly aromatic.
- Prime rib roast (bone-in, about 6 pounds): The superstar of the dish; opt for a well-marbled cut for exceptional flavor and tenderness.
- Olive oil (4 tablespoons): Acts as the base for your herb paste, helping the crust adhere and the flavors to infuse deeply into the meat.
- Fresh garlic (6 cloves, minced): Infuses the roast with fragrant, savory notes that you smell before you even take the first bite.
- Fresh rosemary (2 tablespoons, chopped): Delivers vibrant, woodsy aroma and earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with beef.
- Fresh thyme (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds subtle lemony depth and just the right amount of herbal brightness.
- Coarse kosher salt (1 tablespoon): Crucial for drawing out moisture and creating a crave-worthy seasoned bark on the outside.
- Black pepper (2 teaspoons): Gives robust bite and complexity, perfectly balancing the richness of the meat.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings gentle smokiness and a hint of warmth that elevates every slice.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Forms the savory base for the au jus, capturing all the roasting pan flavor.
- Red wine (1 cup, optional for au jus): Adds decadence and a touch of acidity to the final sauce; use your favorite dry red.
How to Make Smashing Roasted Prime Rib
Step 1: Prep the Prime Rib
Start by removing your prime rib roast from the refrigerator and letting it rest at room temperature for about two hours. This step ensures it cooks evenly from edge to center, giving you a gorgeous, consistent pink interior. Don’t skip it — this is one of those tricks that separates so-so roasts from truly smashing ones!
Step 2: Make the Garlic Herb Paste
In a small bowl, blend together the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, coarse kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. This aromatic mixture transforms into a rich paste that will coat the prime rib. The olive oil helps carry all those flavors directly into the meat, resulting in a savory crust that’s packed with herbal and garlicky goodness.
Step 3: Rub and Roast the Prime Rib
Rub the garlic herb paste all over the prime rib, really working it into every nook and cranny. Place the roast bone-side down into a large roasting pan. Slide the pan into a preheated 450°F (230°C) oven and let it roast for 15 minutes — this high heat creates a beautifully browned exterior. Then, reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until your meat thermometer registers 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare, or 140°F for medium. Remember, this is your moment for perfection, so use that thermometer!
Step 4: Rest and Make the Au Jus
Once your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib hits your desired temperature, transfer it to a cutting board and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20 minutes — this lets the juices redistribute inside the roast and keeps every slice succulent. Meanwhile, set the roasting pan over medium heat on the stovetop. Pour in the beef broth and, if using, the red wine. Scrape up all those caramelized bits from the pan; they’re pure flavor gold. Simmer until slightly reduced, and your au jus is ready to serve alongside the prime rib.
Step 5: Slice and Serve
After a well-earned rest, it’s time for the big reveal. Slice your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib into thick, juicy portions. Each slice should be perfectly rosy and tender, topped off with a generous drizzle of that homemade au jus. There’s no wrong way to serve it — just make sure you enjoy every bite!
How to Serve Smashing Roasted Prime Rib
Garnishes
Give your masterpiece the finishing touch it deserves by adding garnishes. A sprinkle of freshly chopped herbs, like rosemary or thyme, brings a pop of color and brightness to each plate. For a festive occasion, a scattering of pomegranate seeds or a drizzle of horseradish cream adds both elegance and zing. The Smashing Roasted Prime Rib truly shines when given a thoughtful flourish of fresh flavor.
Side Dishes
This iconic roast begs for classic, cozy sidekicks. Think crispy roasted potatoes, creamy mashed potatoes, or pillowy Yorkshire puddings to soak up every drop of au jus. Bright, snappy green beans or a hearty Caesar salad help balance out the richness. When planning your meal, let the Smashing Roasted Prime Rib take center stage and build your menu around it.
Creative Ways to Present
For a true showstopper moment, bring the whole roast to the table before slicing, letting everyone take in its irresistible aroma and golden brown crust. If you’re serving buffet-style, arrange thick slices over a platter lined with fresh herbs. Alternatively, slice it tableside for a dramatic flourish guests will remember. No matter how you present it, the Smashing Roasted Prime Rib always makes a stunning impression.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover prime rib tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within three to four days, staying moist and flavorful for fantastic sandwiches, salads, or hash.
Freezing
To freeze, slice or leave the roast in larger sections, then wrap well in plastic wrap or freezer paper followed by a layer of foil. Place in a zip-top freezer bag to guard against freezer burn. You can freeze Smashing Roasted Prime Rib for up to three months without losing quality or great taste.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftovers gently to preserve juiciness. Warm sliced prime rib in a baking dish with a splash of beef broth, covered with foil, at 250°F until just heated through. Avoid microwaving, which can dry out the meat, and savor every last bite of your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib all over again.
FAQs
Can I prepare the Smashing Roasted Prime Rib a day ahead?
Absolutely! You can season the roast and let it rest uncovered in the fridge overnight. This deepens the flavor and helps create that sought-after crispy crust. Just bring the roast to room temperature before cooking for best results.
What’s the best way to ensure it cooks evenly?
Letting the roast come fully to room temperature before it hits the oven is key. Also, always use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature, so you’ll always get that roast just the way you like it.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh for Smashing Roasted Prime Rib?
You can substitute dried herbs in a pinch; use about one-third the amount called for in the recipe, as dried herbs have more concentrated flavor. However, fresh herbs provide unrivaled aroma and brightness that really make this dish shine.
Is the red wine in the au jus absolutely necessary?
Not at all! While red wine adds extra depth and richness to the au jus, you can omit it or swap in additional beef broth if you prefer. The result will still be incredibly tasty alongside your Smashing Roasted Prime Rib.
How do I serve this to a crowd?
This roast is the definition of crowd-pleasing. Simply carve thick slices and arrange them on a large platter. Have the au jus on the side for drizzling, and set up a buffet of your favorite sides so everyone can dig in and build their dream plate.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a meal that delights all the senses, look no further than Smashing Roasted Prime Rib. It’s a recipe that instantly elevates any occasion and fills the room with the spirit of celebration. Don’t hesitate to try it — your guests (and your taste buds) will thank you!
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Smashing Roasted Prime Rib Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, savory flavors of this Smashing Roasted Prime Rib recipe. With a perfectly seasoned crust and tender, juicy meat, this dish is sure to impress your guests at any special gathering or holiday feast.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 bone-in prime rib roast (about 6 pounds)
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
For Au Jus:
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
Instructions
- Preparation: Remove prime rib from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 2 hours. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Seasoning: In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika to make a paste. Rub over the prime rib.
- Roasting: Place roast bone-side down in a roasting pan. Roast at 450°F for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 325°F and continue cooking for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
- Resting: Transfer roast to a cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest for 20 minutes before slicing.
- Au Jus: For au jus, simmer beef broth and red wine in the roasting pan until slightly reduced. Serve slices of prime rib with au jus.
Notes
- Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.
- Leftovers are great for sandwiches or beef hash.
- For enhanced flavor, season the roast the night before and refrigerate uncovered.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus resting time)
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Main Course, Holiday
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American, Steakhouse-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 680 mg
- Fat: 52 g
- Saturated Fat: 22 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 28 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
