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Close-up of a perfectly cooked Prime Rib in a Roaster Oven, showing a medium-rare pink center and seasoned crust.

Prime Rib in a Roaster Oven — Even, Tender, Simple

This recipe provides a straightforward method for cooking a tender and evenly cooked prime rib roast in a roaster oven, perfect for special occasions or family gatherings.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Seasoning and Resting Time 1 day
Total Time 1 day 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 10 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

For the Prime Rib
  • 10 lb. prime rib roast about 5 ribs, bone rack removed and tied back on for roasting
For the Seasoning Paste
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
  • 1 Tbs. seasoned salt
  • 1 Tbs. black pepper
  • 1 Tbs. onion powder or granulated onion
  • 3 cloves garlic minced or crushed

Equipment

  • Roaster oven
  • Large rimmed baking sheet
  • Medium bowl
  • Cutting board
  • Aluminum foil

Method
 

  1. Unwrap the prime rib from its packaging and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the prime rib, fat side up, onto a large rimmed baking sheet.
  2. Combine the seasoned salt with the black pepper in a medium bowl. Add the softened butter and garlic, mixing well until you have a smooth paste.
  3. Use your fingers to spread the seasoned garlic butter all over the prime rib roast, pressing it into all the crevices.
  4. If you have time, place the buttered roast into the refrigerator for 24 hours, uncovered. This allows it to season during this resting time.
  5. When you are ready to cook the roast, remove it from refrigeration and let it rest on the counter, uncovered, for at least 2 hours.
  6. Preheat your electric roaster to 450 degrees F. (use 425 degrees F if your roaster only goes that high). Place the rack into the bottom of the roaster.
  7. After 10-12 minutes, the roaster should be preheated. Place the prepared prime rib roast onto the cooking rack.
  8. Cover the roaster with the lid. Cook the prime rib roast on high (425-450 degrees F) for 25-30 minutes, or until the exterior is deep golden brown.
  9. Reduce the roaster temperature to 350 degrees F. Continue cooking the prime rib for 10-12 minutes per pound, or until it reaches 125 degrees F. at the center (about 2 more hours). This time will vary depending on your roaster.
  10. Remove the prime rib from the roaster and place it onto a large cutting board. Cover the prime rib with foil and let it rest for at least 15-30 minutes.

Notes

For a good exterior crust, season the roast ahead of time and let it rest uncovered in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This allows the seasoning to penetrate and draws out surface moisture, resulting in a caramelized exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Cooking the prime rib without liquid in the roaster helps achieve this crust. It is recommended to cook prime rib just until rare or medium-rare for the best eating experience. Ensure your prime rib rests before cooking to allow juices to redistribute and protein fibers to relax for more even cooking. Cooking times will vary based on your roaster oven; a general rule for a 12 lb. roast is 12-14 minutes per pound for medium-rare.

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