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Delicious Garlic Butter Prime Rib roast, cooked to perfection and ready to serve.

Garlic Butter Prime Rib Ultimate

This Garlic Butter Prime Rib recipe utilizes the reverse sear method for a perfectly cooked roast, edge-to-edge. By slow-roasting and then searing, you'll achieve a tender, juicy interior and a flavorful, crusty exterior every time. Temperature control and proper resting are key to this foolproof method.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 3 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 800

Ingredients
  

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

Equipment

  • Roasting pan
  • Roasting rack
  • Meat thermometer (instant-read)
  • Probe thermometer
  • small bowl
  • aluminum foil
  • paper towels
  • knife
  • cutting board

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Roast: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. This is crucial for browning.
  2. Season the Roast: Combine the softened butter, minced garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
  3. Generously rub the garlic butter mixture all over the prime rib, ensuring every surface is coated.
  4. Dry Brine: Salt the prime rib generously 24 hours in advance and leave uncovered in the fridge. This allows the salt to penetrate the meat, seasoning it from the inside out and helping it retain moisture.
  5. Slow Roast: Place the prime rib on the rack in the roasting pan. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Roast for approximately 2-3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 115-120°F (46-49°C) for medium-rare. Use a probe thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast to monitor the temperature.
  6. Rest: Remove the prime rib from the oven and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
  7. Sear: Preheat your oven's broiler to high. Remove the foil and return the prime rib to the roasting pan. Broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned and crusty. Watch it carefully to prevent burning! Alternatively, you can sear in a hot pan on the stovetop.
  8. Final Rest and Carve: Remove the prime rib from the oven and let it rest for another 10 minutes before carving.
  9. Carve against the grain into 1/2-inch thick slices.
  10. Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, use high-quality unsalted butter and freshly minced garlic. Resting the roast is crucial for juicy and tender meat. Watch the prime rib carefully during the searing process to prevent burning. You can sear in a screaming hot pan as an alternative to broiling.