If you're looking to impress at your next dinner gathering, this Herb-Crusted Prime Rib with Garlic Butter is a showstopper. With a perfect blend of fresh herbs and a luscious garlic butter crust, this roast is both elegant and comforting, making it ideal for special occasions or a cozy Sunday dinner.
Prime rib roast: The star of the show, this cut is known for its marbling which results in a juicy and tender piece of meat. Choosing a bone-in roast helps retain moisture and adds flavor.
Butter: Acts as the base for the herb crust, helping to adhere the herbs to the meat and adding a rich, creamy flavor.
Garlic: Provides a robust, aromatic punch that enhances the savory profile of the dish.
Rosemary, thyme, oregano: Fresh herbs that infuse the roast with earthy, aromatic notes. Each herb contributes a unique layer of flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
Olive oil: Used to help crisp up the herb crust and add a touch of richness.
Beef broth: Utilized for deglazing the pan, it picks up all those delicious browned bits and turns them into a savory pan sauce.
This prime rib pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes or a classic Yorkshire pudding. For a lighter side, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the meat. A glass of full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon would complement the flavors beautifully.
Begin by preheating your oven to 450°F (232°C). While the oven heats, let your prime rib roast sit out until it reaches room temperature. This step is crucial for even cooking.
In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Mix them together until they're well blended. This herb butter will form the flavorful crust on your roast.
Pat the prime rib dry using paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and promotes a good crust. Generously season all sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
Now, spread the herb butter mixture evenly over the surface of the prime rib. Make sure to coat every bit of it — this is where the flavor magic happens!
Place the prime rib on a roasting rack inside a large roasting pan. Drizzle olive oil over the top to encourage that beautifully crispy crust. Pop it in your preheated oven for 20 minutes.
After the initial high-heat roast, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting for about 90 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for a perfect medium-rare. Adjust according to your preferred doneness.
Once cooked, remove the roast and tent it with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for at least 20 minutes. This resting period is key for retaining juices.
Meanwhile, place the roasting pan on the stove over medium heat. Add the beef broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits to make a savory pan sauce. This is liquid gold!