Herb Crusted Prime Rib: 7 Essential Steps for Perfection

Name: Herb Crusted Prime Rib: 7 Essential Steps for Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (5-6 pound) prime rib roast; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh rosemary; 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh thyme; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons coarse sea salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

by Jannet Lisa

11 de February de 2026

Jump to Recipe

Herb Crusted Prime Rib is the ultimate centerpiece for any special occasion, featuring a golden, crispy herb crust and a tender, juicy interior. This dish not only elevates your holiday menu but also impresses your guests with its robust flavors and elegant presentation. If you want to know how to create this savory delight, read on for tips and tricks that will make your roast the star of the table.

Why You’ll Love This Herb Crusted Prime Rib

This herb-encrusted prime rib is perfect for celebrations, boasting a range of benefits:

Impressive presentation that wows guests.
Tender and juicy interior that melts in your mouth.
Easy recipe for herb crusted prime rib that requires minimal prep time.
Rich flavor from the best herbs for prime rib crust.
Gluten-free, making it suitable for various diets.
Can be paired with a variety of sides for a complete meal.

With its classic American roots, this dish is a must-try!

Ingredients for Herb Crusted Prime Rib

Gather these items:

1 (5-6 pound) prime rib roast
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh thyme
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Herb Crusted Prime Rib Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Pat the prime rib roast dry with paper towels and generously rub the herb butter mixture all over the meat, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Step 4: Place the roast fat-side up on a rack set in a large roasting pan.
Step 5: Roast the prime rib for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue roasting until it reaches your desired doneness, about 2 to 2 1/2 hours for medium-rare.
Step 6: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast, which should reach 130°F (55°C) for medium-rare.
Step 7: Once the prime rib is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Herb Crusted Prime Rib

Keep these in mind:

Let the meat sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking to ensure even cooking.
Invest in a good quality meat thermometer for accurate doneness.
Consider using a mix of fresh herbs for more flavor.
This method of roasting is ideal for creating a savory herb crusted beef.

Best Ways to Serve Herb Crusted Prime Rib

Here are some serving suggestions:

Pair with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal.
Serve with a rich red wine reduction for added flavor.
Complement with garlic mashed potatoes for a classic touch.

How to Store and Reheat Herb Crusted Prime Rib

To store leftovers, wrap the prime rib tightly in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the meat in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) until warmed through. This method preserves the meat’s juiciness and flavor, making it a great option for meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions About Herb Crusted Prime Rib

What’s the secret to perfect Herb Crusted Prime Rib?

The key to a perfect garlic herb prime rib lies in the seasoning and cooking technique. Use fresh herbs for better flavor and allow the meat to rest before slicing to keep it juicy.

Can I make Herb Crusted Prime Rib ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the herb crust a day in advance and apply it to the roast. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Herb Crusted Prime Rib?

Ensure that your roast is at room temperature before cooking and use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking. This ensures you achieve that perfect medium-rare doneness.

Variations of Herb Crusted Prime Rib You Can Try

For those looking for a twist, consider these variations:

Use a spice rub with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Incorporate other herbs like sage or parsley for a different profile.
Try a marinade with balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick, suitable for gluten-free diets.

These options allow you to experiment while still enjoying the classic appeal of a prime rib roast.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes or try making cheesy mashed potato balls as a side dish!

Herb Crusted Prime Rib: 7 Essential Steps for Perfection - Herb Crusted Prime Rib - additional detail

For more tips on cooking techniques, visit Serious Eats for expert advice.

Herb Crusted Prime Rib: 7 Essential Steps for Perfection

Author: Jannet Lisa
Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Herb Crusted Prime Rib Roast features a golden, crispy herb crust and a tender, juicy interior. It is the ultimate centerpiece for any special occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (5-6 pound) prime rib roast
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh rosemary
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh thyme
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons coarse sea salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Pat the prime rib roast dry with paper towels and generously rub the herb butter mixture all over the meat, making sure to cover the entire surface.
Place the roast fat-side up on a rack set in a large roasting pan.
Roast the prime rib for 15 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 300°F (150°C) and continue roasting until it reaches your desired doneness, about 2 to 2 1/2 hours for medium-rare.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the roast, which should reach 130°F (55°C) for medium-rare.
Once the prime rib is cooked to your liking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving.