What size prime rib should I buy per person?

A good rule of thumb is to purchase 1 pound of prime rib per person when serving it as the main course. For bone-in roasts, consider adding an extra pound or two, especially if you want leftovers.

How do I know when my prime rib is done?

The best way to ensure doneness is by using a meat thermometer . For medium-rare, pull the roast at an internal temperature of 125°F —it will continue cooking as it rests and rise to about 130–135°F . Avoid cutting to check; always rely on the thermometer for accuracy.

Can I prepare garlic herb prime rib ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the garlic herb butter rub and coat the roast up to 24 hours in advance . Wrap the roast and refrigerate, then bring it to room temperature before roasting. This enhances flavor and saves prep time on the day of your event.

Garlic Herb Prime Rib – Best Holiday Roast Guide

Name: Garlic Herb Prime Rib
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (5 to 6-pound) prime rib roast, bone-in: provides rich beef flavor and tenderness; 1 cup unsalted butter, softened: base for the herb rub and helps form a crust; 6 cloves garlic, minced: adds robust, savory flavor; 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped: brings a woody, aromatic herbaceousness; 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped: adds subtle floral and earthy notes; 1 tablespoon kosher salt: enhances the natural flavor of the beef; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: gives a balanced, spicy bite

Description

Garlic Herb Prime Rib is a tender, juicy beef roast slathered in a decadent garlic herb butter, then roasted to perfection. It’s the ultimate holiday centerpiece—flavorful, elegant, and surprisingly easy to prepare at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 (5 to 6-pound) prime rib roast, bone-in: provides rich beef flavor and tenderness
1 cup unsalted butter, softened: base for the herb rub and helps form a crust
6 cloves garlic, minced: adds robust, savory flavor
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped: brings a woody, aromatic herbaceousness
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped: adds subtle floral and earthy notes
1 tablespoon kosher salt: enhances the natural flavor of the beef
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: gives a balanced, spicy bite

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Instructions

Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for at least 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).
In a bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Place the roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan.
Spread the garlic herb butter evenly over the entire top and sides of the roast.
Roast in the preheated oven for 15–20 minutes to develop a crust.
Reduce oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting for approximately 13–15 minutes per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare.
Remove the roast from the oven and tent loosely with foil. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes.
Carve into 1/4-inch thick slices and serve with desired sides or sauces.

Notes

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking—don’t rely on visual cues alone.
Bring roast to room temperature before roasting to ensure even cooking.
Let the meat rest after roasting to keep it juicy and flavorful.
You can prepare the garlic herb butter in advance and refrigerate it until ready to use.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (approx. 8 oz)
Calories: 680
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 580mg
Fat: 55g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Unsaturated Fat: 26g
Trans Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 1g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 45g
Cholesterol: 160mg