Few meals feel as indulgent and memorable as a beautifully cooked prime rib—and National Prime Rib Day, celebrated on April 27th, is the perfect time to enjoy it. Known for its rich marbling, tender texture, and bold flavor, prime rib is a centerpiece-worthy dish that turns any dinner into a special occasion.
Whether you’re hosting guests, planning a holiday-style meal, or simply treating yourself, this classic recipe delivers a restaurant-quality roast right from your own kitchen.
Herb Butter Prime Rib Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1 (4-pound) bone-in prime rib roast, room temperature
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence
- Salt to taste
Directions
1. Bring to room temperature
Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 2 to 6 hours. This ensures even cooking throughout.
2. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C).
3. Prepare the herb butter
In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, black pepper, and herbes de Provence until well combined.
4. Season the roast
Spread the herb butter mixture evenly over the entire roast. Season generously with salt.
5. Initial roast
Place the roast in the preheated oven and cook for 20 minutes.
Tip: If your roast is larger or smaller than 4 pounds, multiply the weight by 5 minutes to determine the initial roasting time.
6. Turn off the oven
After the initial cook time, turn the oven off without opening the door. Let the roast remain inside for 2 hours. The trapped heat will gently finish cooking the meat to a tender, juicy perfection.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Prime Rib
- Use a meat thermometer if you want precise doneness (aim for ~130°F for medium-rare)
- Let the roast rest before slicing to keep juices locked in
- Slice against the grain for maximum tenderness
- Pair with au jus, horseradish sauce, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal
Make It a Meal to Remember
Prime rib isn’t just a dish—it’s an experience. Pair it with a bold red wine, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp side salad to round out your table.
On National Prime Rib Day, take the opportunity to slow down, gather around the table, and enjoy a meal that’s as impressive as it is delicious.
Thank you to All Recipies for this delicious recipe.