How to Make the Perfect Prime Rib for Your Holiday Dinner?

There’s nothing quite as festive—or as impressive—as a perfectly cooked prime rib for your holiday table. Juicy, flavorful, and tender, this centerpiece is easier to make than you might think with a few tips, the right preparation, and some holiday cheer.

Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned host, this guide will walk you through selecting, seasoning, roasting, and serving prime rib like a pro.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Cut

Step 1: Choosing the Right Cut

• Grade: Look for USDA Prime for maximum marbling. Choice is fine if Prime isn’t available.

• Bone-In vs. Boneless: Bone-in (rib roast) adds flavor and keeps meat juicy; boneless is easier to carve.

• Size: Plan 1 pound per person. For 6 guests, a 6-pound rib roast works perfectly.

Step 2: Seasoning Your Prime Rib

Ingredients for a 6–7 lb. rib roast:

Step 2: Seasoning Your Prime Rib

• 3 tablespoons kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped

• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped

• Optional dry rub: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Pat the roast dry with paper towels.

2. Mix all seasonings in a small bowl.

3. Rub the mixture evenly over the entire roast.

4. Let rest uncovered in the refrigerator for 2–12 hours for deep flavor and a better crust.

Step 3: Roasting to Perfection

Oven Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 450°F (230°C).

2. Place roast fat side up on a rack in a roasting pan.

Initial Sear:

• Roast for 20 minutes at 450°F to form a crust.

Lower Temperature:

• Reduce oven to 325°F (165°C).

• Roast until internal temperature reaches:

  • Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)

  • Medium-Rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)  *Most popular

  • Medium: 140–145°F (60–63°C)

Step 3: Roasting to Perfection

Estimated Cooking Time at 325°F:

• 6 lb roast: 1 hour 30 minutes – 1 hour 45 minutes for medium-rare

Step 3: Roasting to Perfection

Resting:

• Remove roast from oven and tent with foil.

• Rest 20–30 minutes to let juices redistribute.

Step 4: Carving and Serving

• Slice against the grain into ½–1 inch thick pieces.

• Serve with:

  • Horseradish sauce (¼ cup prepared horseradish + 2 tbsp sour cream + pinch salt)

  • Au jus (pan drippings + ½ cup beef broth + 1 tsp cornstarch if needed)

  • Roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes

Step 4: Carving and Serving

Presentation Tip: Garnish the platter with fresh rosemary sprigs and a few cranberries for a festive touch.

Final Thoughts

With exact measurements, correct cooking times, and proper seasoning, your holiday prime rib will be juicy, tender, and memorable. Serve with confidence and enjoy the holiday feast!

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