If you’re looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your next holiday dinner or special occasion, oven roasted garlic butter prime rib is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. This succulent, tender, and flavorful roast combines the rich taste of prime rib with the savory aroma of garlic butter, slow-roasted to perfection in your oven.
In this article, I will walk you through an easy, foolproof recipe for preparing this luxurious dish at home. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this guide will help you achieve that tender, juicy prime rib with a golden garlic butter crust.
Why Choose Oven Roasted Garlic Butter Prime Rib?
Prime rib is known for its rich marbling and tenderness, making it one of the most luxurious cuts of beef. Roasting it in the oven with garlic butter enhances the natural flavors, creating a crispy, savory crust while keeping the inside juicy and melt-in-your-mouth tender.
The garlic butter acts as a flavorful basting agent, infusing the meat with a buttery richness and a deliciously aromatic garlic punch. The slow roasting method ensures even cooking and maximum tenderness, resulting in a dish that will be the highlight of any meal.
Ingredients for Oven Roasted Garlic Butter Prime Rib
To prepare this exquisite roast, you will need:
- Prime Rib Roast (bone-in or boneless): 4-6 pounds, preferably USDA Choice or Prime grade
- Unsalted Butter: 1 cup (2 sticks), softened
- Fresh Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced
- Fresh Rosemary: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Fresh Thyme: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped
- Salt: 2 tablespoons, preferably kosher salt
- Black Pepper: 1 tablespoon, freshly ground
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons
Optional:
- Horseradish Sauce or Au Jus for serving
Equipment Needed
- Roasting pan with rack
- Meat thermometer
- Small bowl for garlic butter mixture
- Aluminum foil
- Oven mitts
Step-by-Step Recipe – How to Make Oven Roasted Garlic Butter Prime Rib
1. Preparing the Prime Rib Roast
Start by removing your prime rib from the refrigerator and letting it come to room temperature for about 1 to 2 hours. This step ensures even cooking throughout the roast.
Pat the roast dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the garlic butter stick and promote a crispy crust.
2. Making the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the softened unsalted butter with minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
This garlic butter blend will infuse your prime rib with incredible flavor while keeping it moist and tender.
3. Applying the Garlic Butter to the Roast
Using your hands or a spatula, generously coat the entire surface of the prime rib with the garlic butter mixture. Make sure to cover every inch, including the sides and ends.
Drizzle olive oil over the roast and rub it in to enhance browning and flavor development.
4. Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). The high initial temperature helps to sear the roast, locking in juices and forming a flavorful crust.
5. Roasting the Prime Rib
Place the garlic butter-coated prime rib on a rack in your roasting pan. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast, avoiding bones.
Put the roast into the preheated oven and roast at 450°F for 15 minutes. This searing step will create a crispy exterior.
6. Lowering the Temperature and Continuing to Roast
After the initial sear, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:
- Rare: 120°F to 125°F
- Medium Rare: 130°F to 135°F
- Medium: 140°F to 145°F
This usually takes about 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F, but using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure perfect results.
7. Resting the Roast
Once the roast reaches the target temperature, remove it from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 20-30 minutes.
Resting allows the juices to redistribute inside the meat, making each slice juicy and tender.
8. Carving and Serving
Carve the prime rib into thick slices using a sharp carving knife. Serve immediately with your choice of sides, horseradish sauce, or au jus.
Tips for the Best Oven Roasted Garlic Butter Prime Rib
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Avoid guessing doneness. A reliable meat thermometer ensures your roast is cooked perfectly every time.
- Bring Meat to Room Temperature: This prevents uneven cooking and helps achieve a consistent internal temperature.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Resting is crucial for juicy prime rib.
- Use Fresh Herbs and Garlic: Fresh ingredients deliver more vibrant flavor than dried.
- Save the Pan Drippings: Make a delicious au jus or gravy from the roast drippings for added flavor.
Delicious Side Dishes to Serve with Prime Rib
To complement your oven roasted garlic butter prime rib, consider pairing it with:
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Roasted seasonal vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, asparagus)
- Creamed spinach
- Yorkshire pudding
- Fresh dinner rolls
These sides add variety and balance, making your meal complete.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prime Rib
How long does it take to cook a 5-pound prime rib?
Generally, it takes about 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F after the initial high-heat sear. For a 5-pound roast, expect around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 40 minutes.
Can I cook prime rib ahead of time?
While you can cook it ahead, prime rib is best served fresh. If you must prepare it early, keep it wrapped and reheat gently before serving.
What is the best way to reheat prime rib?
Reheat prime rib in the oven at low temperature (around 250°F) covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Final Thoughts
Oven roasted garlic butter prime rib is a luxurious, mouthwatering dish perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any special occasion. The combination of tender, juicy beef with rich garlic butter and fragrant herbs is irresistible.
With this simple yet detailed recipe, you can confidently prepare a prime rib roast that will impress your guests and satisfy your craving for a hearty, flavorful meal. Don’t forget to use a meat thermometer and allow proper resting time — these are the keys to prime rib perfection.
