Name: Best No-Fail Prime Rib with Garlic Herb Crust and Red Wine Au Jus Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 50 min
Total time: PT-489747H52M57S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 pounds prime rib, bone-in (bones cut off and tied back on); ½ cup butter, softened; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 onion, quartered (optional, for red wine au jus); ¼ cup drippings from prime rib pan (fat separated); 2 cups beef broth; 1 ½ cups red wine; Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (mixed with water to form a slurry to thicken)

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 60 reviews

When you want to impress your family and friends with a roast that feels both special and effortlessly spectacular, the Best No-Fail Prime Rib with Garlic Herb Crust and Red Wine Au Jus Recipe is your ultimate go-to. This dish combines the succulence of perfectly roasted prime rib with a fragrant garlic herb crust, creating a crackling, flavorful exterior that locks in juicy, tender meat. The accompanying red wine au jus adds a rich, savory depth, making every bite a celebration of classic flavors elevated to restaurant-quality brilliance. Trust me, this recipe turns any meal into an unforgettable occasion!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a large piece of meat covered with a thick layer of yellowish herb butter, speckled with green and black herbs. The meat is placed in the center of a white cast iron pan, surrounded by several large, pale yellow onion wedges arranged in a circle around it. The pan is set on a white marbled surface with soft lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential for building the incredible flavor profile and tender texture that make this dish shine. Each item plays a crucial role, from the richness of butter to the fresh punch of herbs and the bold finish of red wine in the au jus.

6 pounds prime rib (bone-in): The star of the show, providing juicy, marbled beef that’s full of flavor and perfect for roasting.
½ cup softened butter: Helps the herb crust stick and adds a luscious richness to the outer layer.
6 garlic cloves (minced): Delivers aromatic punch that infuses deep into the crust, balancing savory and fragrant notes.
1 tablespoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning the meat and bringing out its natural juices.
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme: Adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements beef beautifully.
1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary: Brings a piney, vibrant herbal kick to the crust.
1 teaspoon black pepper: Provides just the right amount of heat and depth without overpowering.
1 onion (quartered): Optional for the red wine au jus, adding sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
¼ cup drippings from the prime rib pan (fat separated): Super flavor-packed base for the au jus.
2 cups beef broth: Adds savory moisture and richness to the sauce.
1 ½ cups red wine: Infuses the au jus with bold acidity and depth, lifting every mouthful.
Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder: For a thicker au jus, to your preferred consistency.

How to Make Best No-Fail Prime Rib with Garlic Herb Crust and Red Wine Au Jus Recipe

Step 1: Bring the Prime Rib to Room Temperature

Start by pulling the prime rib out of the fridge 2 to 3 hours before cooking. This step might sound simple, but it’s crucial for even cooking. Allowing your prime rib to come to room temperature ensures that the roast cooks uniformly from edge to center, giving you that perfectly medium-rare, melt-in-your-mouth result everyone will rave about.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Herb Butter Mixture

While the beef rests, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, kosher salt, chopped thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. This mixture is your golden ticket to that fragrant garlic herb crust which locks in juices and creates a beautiful, flavorful bark as it roasts.

Step 3: Pat and Rub the Prime Rib

Once at room temperature, pat the prime rib dry with paper towels—dry meat roasts better and helps the herb butter cling. Then, slather the entire outside generously with the garlic herb butter mixture. Don’t be shy here; this coating is what forms that irresistible crust everyone dreams of when they think prime rib.

Step 4: Roast at High Heat for a Perfect Sear

Place your prime rib bone-side down and fat-side up in an oven-safe pan or roasting tray. If you’re making the red wine au jus, scatter the quartered onion around the roast to infuse additional flavor into the drippings. Pop the roast into the oven and sear it at 450°F for about 20 minutes. This sizzling blast creates a deeply caramelized crust that seals in the beef’s natural juices.

Step 5: Lower the Heat and Slow Cook

After the initial sear, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting the prime rib until the internal temperature reaches 120°F (50°C) for that perfect medium-rare. This usually takes about an hour and a half, but the exact time varies based on your oven and roast size, so a meat thermometer is your best friend here. Patience at this stage ensures tender, rosy slices full of flavor.

Step 6: Rest and Slice Your Prime Rib

Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest, tented loosely with foil, for 20 to 30 minutes. Resting is the secret to juicy prime rib because it allows the meat fibers to relax, redistributing the juices evenly instead of spilling out when you slice. After resting, remove the string and bones, then carve into thick ½-inch slices that make each serving a delightful experience.

Step 7: Make the Red Wine Au Jus

With the roast resting, pour off the fat from the pan drippings, reserving up to ¼ cup of the flavorful juices. Add these drippings back into the pan along with the beef broth and red wine, tossing in any leftover herbs for an extra flavor lift. Simmer gently for about 15 minutes until the liquid reduces by half, developing a luscious, aromatic sauce. If you like a thicker au jus, whisk in a cornstarch or arrowroot slurry until just right. Strain to remove onions and browned bits, and serve drizzled over your prime rib.

How to Serve Best No-Fail Prime Rib with Garlic Herb Crust and Red Wine Au Jus Recipe

A large piece of roasted beef with a dark, spicy crust sits on a wooden cutting board over a white marbled surface. The roast is sliced to show two layers: a thick, juicy pink middle and a thinner outer brown layer with a strip of white fat between them. A long, sharp knife rests against the meat, partly under one of the slices. The texture of the crust is rough with visible spices, while the meat inside looks tender and slightly moist. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A few simple garnishes can elevate your plate beautifully. Freshly chopped parsley or thyme scattered over the sliced beef add a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma. A light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on the slices right before serving gives that perfect finishing crunch and flavor boost that makes the crust stand out even more.

Side Dishes

Pairing your prime rib with classic, comforting sides is the way to go. Creamy mashed potatoes or garlic-infused roasted vegetables complement the richness without overpowering it. You could also serve a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the meal and add freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests visually, try serving the roast family-style on a large wooden cutting board surrounded by roasted root vegetables and fresh herb sprigs. Another idea is to offer a carving station where guests can choose their thickness of slices and dollop on as much au jus as they like, turning your meal into a fun, interactive feast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover prime rib tightly in foil or place in an airtight container to keep it juicy and flavorful. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to store the au jus separately to prevent the meat from becoming soggy.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, slice the prime rib first and pack it in freezer-safe bags with a little bit of au jus to maintain moisture. Freeze for up to 2 months. For best thawing results, allow it to defrost overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a low oven (around 250°F / 120°C) covered with foil to preserve tenderness. Alternatively, warm in a skillet with a splash of au jus over low heat. Avoid microwaving directly to keep the prime rib juicy and flavorful without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use boneless prime rib for this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless prime rib works well, though the bones add extra flavor and help retain moisture during roasting. Just adjust your cooking times slightly since boneless roasts can cook faster.

What’s the best way to check doneness for prime rib?

A reliable meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the roast is your best friend. Aim for 120°F (50°C) for medium-rare, keeping in mind the roast will continue to cook slightly while resting.

Can I prepare the garlic herb butter ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix the garlic herb butter a day ahead and keep it refrigerated. This can even help meld the flavors, making the crust more aromatic when applied to the beef.

Is red wine necessary for the au jus?

While red wine adds wonderful complexity and depth, you can omit it and use extra beef broth if preferred. The sauce will still be delicious, just a little less robust.

How do I make the au jus thicker if I want it more like gravy?

Mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch or arrowroot powder with an equal part of cold water to create a slurry. Stir it into the simmering au jus gradually and cook until it reaches your desired thickness. Remember to strain before serving for a smooth sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the Best No-Fail Prime Rib with Garlic Herb Crust and Red Wine Au Jus Recipe that makes any meal feel like a special celebration. It’s a recipe that combines tried-and-true techniques with accessible ingredients, delivering stunning results every time. Don’t hesitate to gather loved ones around the table and enjoy the unforgettable flavors and comforting warmth this roast brings. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become your go-to recipe for every occasion!