Pioneer Woman Prime Rib Recipe

A good prime rib should have a deep crust on the outside and stay juicy in the center, and Pioneer Woman’s method is 100% my fave!

I start with a well-marbled roast and let it sit at room temperature for at least an hour before cooking.

A thick coating of salt, black pepper, and garlic gives the crust an incredible depth of seasoning.

Roasting at a low temperature first, then blasting it with high heat at the end, locks in the juices.

Letting it rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing keeps it from losing too much juice.

Pairing it with a rich au jus or a dab of horseradish makes each slice even better!

How to Make Pioneer Woman Prime Rib

Ingredients

• 1 Whole Rib Eye Roast (14 lb.)
• 6 tbsp Olive Oil
• 4 tbsp Tri-color Peppercorns (crushed)
• 3 tbsp Kosher Salt
• 6 cloves Garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp Fresh Rosemary (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme (chopped)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 450°F.

Let the roast sit at room temperature for about an hour to warm up.

Step 2:

Mix olive oil, peppercorns, kosher salt, garlic, rosemary, and thyme in a small bowl.

Massage this mixture thoroughly over the entire surface of the roast.

Step 3:

Place the seasoned roast on a rack in a large roasting pan, fat side up.

Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast without touching bone.

Step 4:

Roast in the oven for 45 minutes.

Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F and continue roasting.

Cook until the thermometer reads the desired level of doneness.

Step 5:

Remove the roast from the oven when it reaches 135°F for medium-rare.

Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Room Temperature Roast

Bring your rib roast to room temperature before cooking to promote even cooking throughout.

This step ensures the interior cooks just as well as the exterior.

Resting Improves Flavor

Resting the cooked roast for at least 15 minutes allows juices to redistribute.

This technique enhances the meat’s juiciness, making each slice flavorful.

Thermometer Accuracy

Always use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature is just right.

A precise temperature ensures your roast cooks to your preferred doneness.

Experiment with Herbs

Feel free to try some different herbs for varied flavors.

Oregano or basil can add unique flavors to the traditional mix.

Adjust Cooking Time

Oven temperatures may vary, so begin checking doneness earlier to avoid overcooking.

This practice ensures you can react and adjust as needed for the perfect roast.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Prime Rib

Classic Mashed Potatoes

A plate of creamy mashed potatoes pairs wonderfully with prime rib.

Their smooth texture and buttery flavor perfectly complement the richness of the roast.

You can add a bit of roasted garlic or even some fresh chives to jazz things up.

Creamed Spinach

I love serving creamed spinach alongside prime rib as it adds a perfect pop of color and flavor to the meal.

Its rich, velvety texture matches beautifully with the juicy tenderness of the meat.

Horseradish Cream

A zesty horseradish cream sauce brings an extra kick to each bite of your prime rib.

It’s tangy and spicy, enhancing the flavors of the roast beef wonderfully.

It’s super simple to prepare, and you can always make it ahead of time to save effort.

Quick Pickled Red Onions

Quick pickled red onions provide a surprising burst of flavor and a bit of crunch.

They add a touch of acidity that cuts through the richness of the meat, offering a delightful contrast.

Prep them just a couple of hours before serving, and you’re all set.

Grilled Caesar Salads

Why not try something a bit different by adding grilled Caesar salads to the table?

Grilling adds just a hint of smokiness to the romaine, creating a unique and delicious twist on a classic salad.

The homemade dressing is the cherry on top of this refreshing side.

Variations and Substitutions

Feel free to switch up the herbs to suit your taste.

Try using oregano and basil if you’re looking for something different from the traditional rosemary and thyme.

For a spicier version, you can add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to your seasoning mix.

Experiment With Garlic

You can roast whole garlic cloves and mash them into the rub for a rich, smooth flavor.

Vegetarian

Consider making a mushroom jus or a vegetable broth reduction as a complementary sauce for any side dishes.

If you’re watching sodium, you can use reduced-sodium soy sauce to add depth without the extra salt.

Without a Roasting Rack

Place thick slices of onion or carrots under the roast to lift it while also infusing flavor.

How to Store Leftover Prime Rib

Refrigeration Basics

After enjoying your prime rib feast, storing the leftovers properly is key to keeping them fresh.

Place the prime rib in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

In the refrigerator, these leftovers stay good for about 4 to 5 days.

Freezing for Longer Storage

If you aren’t planning to eat the leftovers soon, freezing them is a fantastic option!

Wrap the prime rib tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

It can be stored in the freezer for up to six months without losing its flavors.

Thawing Tips

When you’re ready to enjoy your prime rib again, thaw it safely in the fridge.

This ensures it defrosts evenly and maintains its moisture and flavor.

Letting it thaw overnight works best for the most tender results.

This patience pays off with every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding overcooking is key when it comes to prime rib.

Make use of a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature closely.

Letting the roast reach medium rare is important, as it preserves the juiciness and tenderness.

Skipping the Rest Period

Resting the prime rib after cooking is crucial.

Let it rest for at least 20 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.

This ensures each slice is juicy and flavorful.

Underseasoning Your Roast

Don’t skimp on the seasoning.

Generously season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.

This step maximizes the roast’s rich, savory flavors.