Oven-Roasted Garlic Butter Prime Rib: A Show-Stopping Roast

Oven-roasted garlic butter prime rib is the ultimate centerpiece for any festive occasion, holiday dinner, or special family gathering. Rich, tender, and perfectly seasoned, this prime rib roast delivers restaurant-quality flavors right from your own kitchen. The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh herbs seeps into the beef, creating an irresistible crust while keeping the interior juicy and flavorful.

What makes this roast truly exceptional is its ability to impress without requiring complex techniques or hard-to-find ingredients. The garlic butter not only enhances the flavor but also helps achieve a beautiful golden crust, while slow roasting ensures the meat remains tender and succulent. From celebratory feasts to cozy weekend dinners, oven-roasted garlic butter prime rib turns an ordinary meal into an unforgettable experience, delighting guests with every savory bite.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of ingredients for an oven-roasted garlic butter prime rib, along with approximate calorie counts:

Ingredient	Quantity	Approx. Calories
Prime rib roast (bone-in)	4–5 lbs	4000
Unsalted butter	½ cup (1 stick)	810
Garlic cloves (minced)	6 cloves	30
Fresh rosemary (chopped)	2 tbsp	5
Fresh thyme (chopped)	2 tbsp	5
Olive oil	1 tbsp	120
Salt	2 tsp	0
Black pepper	1 tsp	5

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter
   In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, and chopped thyme. Mix well until fragrant.
2. Season the Prime Rib
   Pat the roast dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over the meat, then generously season with salt and black pepper.
3. Apply the Garlic Butter
   Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the surface of the prime rib, ensuring it covers all sides.
4. Preheat the Oven
   Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) for initial roasting.
5. Roast the Prime Rib
   Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast at 450°F for 15 minutes to create a flavorful crust. Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness (125°F for rare, 135°F for medium-rare, 145°F for medium).
6. Rest the Meat
   Remove the roast from the oven and tent with aluminum foil. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
7. Slice and Serve
   Carve the prime rib against the grain and serve with additional garlic butter or your favorite sides.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

• Herb Variations: Add sage, oregano, or parsley for different aromatic profiles.
• Garlic Intensity: Increase or decrease garlic quantity depending on your preference.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare garlic butter in advance and refrigerate for easy assembly.
• Optional Searing: Sear the roast in a hot pan before roasting for an extra-crispy crust.
• Seasoning Rubs: Incorporate paprika, onion powder, or crushed red pepper for extra depth.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate, 8 oz slice)

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	650–700
Protein	50 g
Fat	50 g
Carbohydrates	1 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugars	0 g

This roast is rich and indulgent, providing protein and healthy fats, while the garlic and herbs add flavor without extra calories.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve alongside horseradish cream or au jus for classic flavor pairing.
• Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
• Include crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up flavorful juices.
• Complement with a robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.

FAQs

1. How long does it take to cook a prime rib?

Cooking time depends on the roast size and desired doneness. A 4–5 lb prime rib typically takes 15 minutes at 450°F for the initial sear, then 1.5–2 hours at 325°F for medium-rare. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy.

2. What internal temperature should I cook prime rib to?

• Rare: 125°F
• Medium-Rare: 135°F
• Medium: 145°F
  Remove the roast from the oven slightly before your target temperature, as it will continue to cook while resting.

3. Can I make the garlic butter ahead of time?

Yes! Garlic herb butter can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Spread it on the roast just before cooking for maximum flavor.

4. How long should prime rib rest after roasting?

Let the roast rest 20–30 minutes under foil. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more flavorful meat.

5. Can I use boneless prime rib for this recipe?

Yes, boneless prime rib works perfectly. Cooking times may vary slightly, so use a meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.

Conclusion

Oven-roasted garlic butter prime rib is a show-stopping dish that combines tender, juicy beef with rich, aromatic flavors. Its simplicity, elegance, and ability to impress make it a perfect choice for holidays, celebrations, or any special meal. With a golden garlic-herb crust and melt-in-your-mouth interior, this prime rib roast transforms an ordinary dinner into an unforgettable feast, leaving guests raving about every succulent bite.