The savory aroma of Christmas Prime Rib wafting through the air is enough to make anyone weak at the knees. Imagine succulent, perfectly cooked beef, seasoned to perfection and adorned with aromatic herbs, making its grand entrance at your holiday dinner table. savory cranberry tartlets festive stuffed Christmas trees Itβs not just a meal; itβs an event, a showstopper that steals the spotlight and leaves everyone reaching for seconds.

Growing up, my family made Christmas Prime Rib a tradition. I remember my grandmother donning her apron, declaring it the βmost important roast of the year.β The anticipation was palpable as we gathered around, eager to taste her masterpiece. peppermint swirl cookies This dish isnβt just for the meat lovers; itβs for anyone who appreciates a hearty meal that brings people together during the holiday season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Christmas Prime Rib recipe combines ease of preparation with incredible flavors that will wow your guests
- The visual appeal of a beautifully roasted prime rib will have everyone reaching for their phones to capture the moment
- You can customize the seasoning to suit your taste preferences, making it versatile for any occasion
- Itβs perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, ensuring memorable moments with every bite
I still chuckle when I think back to our family dinners, especially when Uncle Bob tried to carve the roast but ended up wrestling it like a wild animal instead.
Essential Ingredients
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Prime Rib Roast: Choose a well-marbled cut for maximum juiciness and flavor; bone-in is my favorite.
- Salt and Pepper: These simple seasonings are essential; they enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
- Fresh Garlic: Use whole cloves; they caramelize beautifully and add depth to your roast. For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter green beans recipe recipe.
- Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: These herbs infuse amazing aromas; opt for fresh over dried for best results.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle helps create a beautifully browned crust on your prime rib.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Letβs Make it Together
Preheat your oven: Preheat your oven to 450Β°F (232Β°C). This initial high temperature will help sear the outside of your prime rib.
Season generously: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil all over it, then season generously with salt and pepperβdonβt be shy here!
Add garlic and herbs: Place minced garlic and chopped rosemary and thyme all around the roast. The aroma will be heavenly as these flavors meld during cooking.
Roast in style: Place your seasoned prime rib on a rack in a roasting pan. Insert into preheated oven for 20 minutes; this helps form that delicious crust.
Lower heat: After 20 minutes, reduce oven temperature to 325Β°F (163Β°C) without opening the door. Roast until desired doneness is reachedβabout 15-20 minutes per pound for medium-rare.
Rest before slicing: Once cooked, remove from oven and let rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistributeβtrust me; you want those juicy slices!
Slice and serve: Using a sharp knife, slice against the grain into thick pieces. Serve with sides like mashed potatoes or seasonal veggies for a festive touch.
Now youβre ready to impress your friends and family! Enjoy this scrumptious Christmas Prime Rib while creating new memories around your dinner table! easy Christmas cheese ball.
You Must Know
- Cooking Christmas Prime Rib is an art; rest it for optimal juiciness
- Searing creates a beautiful crust, locking in flavors
- Donβt skip the seasoning; itβs your best friend in achieving that mouthwatering taste
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by seasoning the prime rib generously, then sear it in a hot pan before roasting. This sequence ensures a flavorful crust and juicy interior.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap herbs or add garlic for extra flavor. A hint of horseradish can elevate the taste profile beautifully, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven to maintain tenderness, avoiding dry meat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to achieve perfect doneness; it takes the guesswork out of cooking
- Always let your prime rib rest before slicing to retain its juices
- Pair with sides that complement its rich flavors for a festive feast!
Cooking Christmas Prime Rib brings back memories of my grandmotherβs kitchen filled with laughter and delicious aromas, where every holiday felt special and worth savoring.
FAQ
What temperature should Christmas Prime Rib be cooked to?
Aim for 130Β°F for medium-rare and 140Β°F for medium doneness.
How long does it take to cook Christmas Prime Rib?
Cook at 350Β°F for about 15-20 minutes per pound depending on desired doneness.
Can I use frozen prime rib?
Yes, but ensure itβs fully thawed before cooking for even results and proper internal temperature.

Christmas Prime Rib
- Total Time: 3 minute
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
Description
Indulge in the festive flavors of Christmas with this succulent Prime Rib recipe. Juicy, tender, and seasoned to perfection, this impressive roast is the centerpiece of any holiday gathering. With its aromatic herbs and a beautifully browned crust, itβs sure to have your family and friends coming back for seconds. Perfect for creating cherished memories around the dinner table, this dish transforms any meal into a celebration.
Ingredients
- 1 (5 lb) bone-in Prime Rib Roast
- 2 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Black Pepper
- 8 cloves Fresh Garlic, whole
- 3 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
- 3 sprigs Fresh Thyme
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450Β°F (232Β°C).
- Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels; rub olive oil all over it.
- Generously season with salt and pepper.
- Place whole garlic cloves around the roast along with chopped rosemary and thyme.
- Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan and roast for 20 minutes to develop a crust.
- Reduce the oven temperature to 325Β°F (163Β°C) without opening the door; continue roasting until medium-rare (about 15-20 minutes per pound).
- Once cooked, let the prime rib rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing against the grain.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: - For enhanced flavor, consider adding horseradish or swapping herbs based on your preference. - Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness: aim for 130Β°F for medium-rare. - Serve with classic sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.






