How to Make the Best Rosemary-Garlic Cozy Prime Rib

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When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as gathering around a hearty, stunning meal. Prime rib is the star of the table for many special occasions, but you don’t need a holiday excuse to treat yourself. This recipe pairs a cozy, herb-infused crust with tender, juicy meat to create a dinner guests will be raving about. Let’s warm up the oven and get cooking.

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Ingredients

  • 1 bone-in prime rib roast (about 5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: a sprig of thyme for extra flavor
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Instructions

For an unforgettable centerpiece, start by preparing your rib roast. Remove it from the refrigerator at least an hour before cooking to bring it closer to room temperature. This helps it cook evenly and maintain its tenderness. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).

In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, softened butter, and olive oil until they form a fragrant paste. If you like a more herb-forward flavor, toss in a sprig of thyme for good measure. Gently pat the roast dry using paper towels and rub the garlic-butter mixture all over, making sure to coat each side.

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Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan with the bone side facing down. Slide it into the hot oven and roast for 15 minutes to form a crispy, aromatic crust. Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting for about 1 hour, or until a meat thermometer registers 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare. If you prefer a different level of doneness, adjust your cook time accordingly.

Once your prime rib has reached its desired temperature, remove it from the oven and let it rest on a cutting board for at least 15 minutes. This resting period helps the juices redistribute, so you’ll end up with succulent, melt-in-your-mouth bites. Slice it thick, and serve it up with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.

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This Rosemary-Garlic Cozy Prime Rib is great for anyone who wants a show-stopping yet hassle-free meal. It’s a classic dish that can fit a variety of dietary needs—simply adjust the seasonings or skip the butter for a no-dairy version. Feel free to swap out or add different herbs like thyme or oregano, or introduce a splash of red wine to deepen the flavor. Whether you’re cooking for the whole extended family or treating yourself to a special, quiet night in, this recipe is sure to make any cozy day a memorable one.

Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.