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Chef John's Perfect Prime Rib

Chef John's Perfect Prime Rib features a well-seasoned roast blasted with initial high heat, then finished gently in a turned-off oven for a gorgeous crust and a uniformly rosy center. Butter, black pepper, and herbes de Provence create a fragrant, savory bark that pairs well with holiday sides or a special-occasion dinner.

  • Prep10 mins
  • Cook2 hrs 20 mins
  • Serves4
  • DifficultyMedium
Chef John's Perfect Prime Rib
  1. 1

    Let the rib roast come to room temperature for 2 to 6 hours. Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F (260 degrees C).

  2. 2

    Combine the butter, pepper, and herbes de Provence in a small bowl until fully mixed. Spread the mixture evenly over the roast. Season generously with salt.

  3. 3

    Roast in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. If your roast weighs more or less than 4 pounds, multiply the exact weight by 5 minutes and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

  4. 4

    Turn the oven off; do not open the door. Leave the roast in the oven for 2 hours. The retained oven heat will finish cooking the roast.