Pioneer Woman Prime Rib Recipe

If you’ve ever wondered how to cook the perfect prime rib, the Pioneer Woman version is as close as you can get!

And I’ve got all her tricks right in one place.

One of my favorite parts of this recipe is the use of a high oven temperature to initially sear the meat, locking in those marvelous juices for a tender roast.

Letting the meat rest at room temperature before roasting is key—this helps it cook evenly and achieve that perfect medium-rare color throughout.

I’ve found that pairing the roast with some classic sides like Yorkshire pudding or roasted potatoes makes for an unbeatable meal.

And don’t forget, a well-seasoned crust is essential; salt, herbs, and peppercorns work wonders!

How to Make Pioneer Woman Prime Rib Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 Prime Rib Roast (5-7 lbs.)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black Pepper
• 1 tbsp Fresh Rosemary (chopped)
• 1 tbsp Fresh Thyme (chopped)
• 5 cloves Garlic (minced)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 500°F.

Let the prime rib sit at room temperature for at least an hour.

This step brings the roast to a consistent temperature for even cooking.

Step 2:

Mix salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, and garlic in a small bowl.

Rub the prime rib all over with olive oil, then coat thoroughly with the herb mixture.

Step 3:

Place the seasoned prime rib on a rack in a roasting pan, bone-side down.

Roast in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.

This sears the exterior and seals in flavor.

Step 4:

Reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.

Continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness: 115°F for rare, 125°F for medium-rare.

This takes about 2 to 2.5 hours.

Step 5:

Remove the roast from the oven, tent it with foil, and let it rest for at least 20 minutes.

Letting it rest ensures juicy, tender cuts.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Bring It to Room Temperature

Always remember to let your prime rib sit out for about an hour before cooking.

This helps the roast cook more evenly and retain its juices.

Use a Meat Thermometer

Investing in a good meat thermometer is essential to ensure your prime rib is cooked to your preferred doneness.

Accurate readings prevent overcooking.

Don’t Skip the Resting

Allowing the prime rib to rest for at least 20 minutes after cooking redistributes juices throughout the meat.

This step enhances the flavor and texture when you slice it.

Try Herbed Butter

For an extra layer of flavor, consider making a herbed butter by mixing softened butter with herbs.

Apply it over the roast in the last 10 minutes of roasting.

Adjust Seasoning to Taste

Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.

Adding your personal touch can result in a delicious and unique prime rib.

What to Serve with Pioneer Woman Prime Rib

Classic Mashed Potatoes

You can’t go wrong with classic mashed potatoes when serving prime rib. They’re creamy, buttery, and smooth, making them a perfect companion to the juicy, flavorful meat. You could add a little garlic for an extra punch of flavor, if you like.

Creamed Spinach

Creamed spinach is another traditional side dish that’s a must-try with prime rib. The rich and silky texture of the spinach complements the prime rib beautifully. A touch of nutmeg can add a unique and warm flavor to the spinach.

Yorkshire Pudding

Yorkshire pudding is a less common but excellent pairing with prime rib. It’s light and airy, and its savory depth makes it perfect for soaking up those delicious beef juices. It might not be on everyone’s side dish rotation, but it’s certainly worth trying.

Roasted Garlic Brussels Sprouts

For a fresh twist, roasted garlic Brussels sprouts are both flavorful and nutritious. They offer a nice crunch and slightly bitter profile that pairs wonderfully with the rich taste of the prime rib. Roasting them until they’re crispy is key to enhancing their natural sweetness.

Cauliflower Gratin

For something a bit different, cauliflower gratin is a fantastic option. It’s creamy and cheesy, much like a traditional potato gratin, but the cauliflower provides a lighter alternative. Adding some Gruyère cheese can really give it a delightful, nutty flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

Cooking Techniques

You don’t always have to use the oven to cook your prime rib.

A great alternative is to use a smoker for a rich, smoky flavor that complements the meat perfectly!

Alternatively, try grilling your prime rib for a crispy, charred finish that adds a unique twist to the traditional method.

Meat Substitutes

If you’re looking for substitutes, consider beef tenderloin or a rich, marbled ribeye.

These cuts are succulent alternatives and can be prepared in much the same way as a prime rib.

Each cut brings its own unique taste and texture that you’ll love sharing with your friends and family.

Flavors and Seasonings

You can experiment with different seasoning blends!

Consider using a mix of garlic, rosemary, and thyme for a classic herb-crusted finish.

For a bit of spice, try adding paprika or cayenne pepper to your rub to give it a little kick.

These small changes can make big differences in flavor!

How to Store Leftover Prime Rib

Storing leftover prime rib can be quite simple if you follow a few key steps!

Once you have enjoyed this delicious dish, make sure to store the leftovers promptly to keep them fresh.

Use Airtight Containers

Place the leftover prime rib in airtight containers to ensure optimum freshness.

If you don’t have a container, wrapping the meat tightly in plastic wrap will do the job well.

Refrigerator Temperature

It’s crucial to keep your fridge temperature below 40°F to prevent bacterial growth.

Placing your leftovers in a colder spot within the fridge is always a good idea.

Fridge and Freezer Durations

Leftover prime rib can be kept in the fridge for up to four days.

If you want to store it for longer, freezing it will extend its life for up to six months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping Room Temperature

Before cooking, allow your prime rib to come to room temperature for about an hour.

This step is crucial for even cooking and achieving the perfect tenderness.

Cold meat straight from the fridge can lead to uneven results!

Cooking Beyond Medium-Rare

Aim to cook your prime rib no further than medium-rare.

Going beyond this can cause the meat to lose its tenderness and juicy texture.

Keep an eye on that thermometer!

Not Letting It Rest

Let your prime rib rest after cooking for at least 15 minutes.

Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making every slice juicy and flavorful.

Be patient—the result is worth the wait!