There’s something undeniably showstopping about a perfectly roasted prime rib. The deep golden crust, tender pink center, and rich aroma make it the star of any holiday table or celebratory dinner. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull off this culinary masterpiece. This recipe walks you through a no-fuss oven-roasted technique that guarantees juicy, medium rare slices every time.

Whether you’re hosting your first holiday dinner or simply treating yourself to a luxurious Sunday roast, this easy medium rare prime rib will earn rave reviews. With a simple seasoning blend, a smart roasting method, and a little patience, you’ll serve a roast that’s tender, flavorful, and unforgettable.

What Kind of Prime Rib Should I Use?

For the best results, go with a bone-in prime rib roast. The bones help insulate the meat, leading to more even cooking and juicier results. Look for a roast with good marbling (flecks of fat throughout the meat), as this adds flavor and tenderness. Plan on about 1 pound per person.

Ingredients for the Easy Medium Rare Oven Roasted Prime Rib

1 (5 to 6-pound) bone-in prime rib roast
2 tablespoons kosher salt
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil

How To Make the Easy Medium Rare Oven Roasted Prime Rib

Step 1: Prep the Roast

Bring your prime rib to room temperature for about 2 hours before roasting. Pat the roast dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Seasoning Rub

In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped rosemary. Stir in olive oil to make a paste.

Step 3: Apply the Rub

Rub the seasoning mixture all over the roast, coating it evenly on all sides.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan.

Step 5: Roast at High Heat

Roast the prime rib for 20 minutes to develop a crust.

Step 6: Lower the Temperature

Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (for medium rare), about 90 minutes more.

Step 7: Rest and Carve

Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.

How to Serve and Store Prime Rib

Serve your prime rib with classic sides like roasted garlic mashed potatoes, horseradish cream sauce, and buttery green beans. It’s a feast-worthy centerpiece!

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a low oven to maintain the pink center, or slice thin for delicious prime rib sandwiches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I cook a prime rib for medium rare?

You’ll roast it for about 15-20 minutes per pound at 325°F after the initial high-heat blast. Use a meat thermometer and aim for 120°F internal temperature for medium rare.

Should I roast prime rib bone-in or boneless?

Bone-in roasts yield more flavorful and juicy meat. The bones act as a natural heat barrier for even cooking.

Do I need to sear the roast first?

No searing required! The initial high oven temp creates a beautiful crust without any stovetop searing.

Can I season the roast ahead of time?

Absolutely. Rub it with the seasoning mix and refrigerate uncovered overnight. This dry brine enhances flavor and texture.

What if I want it more well done?

Cook to 130-135°F for medium. Just remember that overcooking may dry it out, so watch your thermometer closely.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this juicy prime rib, you’ll definitely want to explore these other beef favorites:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it for your next special occasion or cozy weekend meal.

And don’t forget to comment with your results! Did you try a different herb rub? Serve it with Yorkshire pudding? I’d love to hear your tips and twists.

For even more inspiration, check out my daily recipes on Pinterest at Nina Dishes.

Easy Medium Rare Oven Roasted Prime Rib

Author: Nina Klatten
Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings

Print Recipe

Description

This Easy Medium Rare Oven Roasted Prime Rib delivers a juicy, flavorful roast with a crispy crust and a perfect pink center. A classic showstopper for holidays or special occasions—made simple with a no-fuss seasoning and smart roasting method.

Ingredients

1 (5 to 6-pound) bone-in prime rib roast

2 tablespoons kosher salt

1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring your prime rib to room temperature for about 2 hours before roasting. Pat the roast dry with paper towels.

2. In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and chopped rosemary. Stir in olive oil to make a paste.

3. Rub the seasoning mixture all over the roast, coating it evenly on all sides.

4. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the roast bone-side down on a rack in a roasting pan.

5. Roast the prime rib for 20 minutes to develop a crust.

6. Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C) and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (for medium rare), about 90 minutes more.

7. Remove the roast from the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the juices redistribute.