If you’re looking for a show-stopping dish that delivers bold flavors, juicy tenderness, and an irresistible smoky char, this Grilled Prime Rib Roast is exactly what you need. Cooking a prime rib on the grill gives it a beautifully seared crust with a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Whether it’s for a special holiday, a backyard cookout, or a family gathering, this recipe guarantees a mouthwatering centerpiece that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor – The combination of smoky, charred crust and juicy, tender meat makes this prime rib unforgettable.
- Restaurant-Quality at Home – Save money and impress your guests with this premium cut cooked to perfection on your grill.
- Perfectly Juicy – Cooking on the grill ensures a beautifully seared exterior while locking in all the juices.
- Minimal Effort, Maximum Impact – With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a meal that looks and tastes like it came straight from a steakhouse.
Ingredients
This grilled prime rib roast is all about quality ingredients and simple, bold flavors. Here’s what you need:
- Prime Rib Roast – The star of the show! Choose a bone-in or boneless prime rib for maximum flavor and tenderness.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the beef.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a classic, peppery crust.
- Garlic Powder – Brings a rich, savory depth to the seasoning.
- Smoked Paprika – Gives the roast a subtle smokiness to complement the grill’s flavor.
- Fresh Rosemary & Thyme – Infuses the meat with aromatic, earthy flavors.
- Olive Oil – Helps the seasoning stick and adds richness.
- Butter – For basting and extra juiciness.
- Wood Chips (optional) – Hickory or mesquite wood chips can add a smoky dimension to the roast.
👉 Note: The full list of ingredients with exact measurements is in the recipe card below!
How to Make the Best Grilled Prime Rib Roast
Step 1: Prepare the Prime Rib
Take the prime rib out of the fridge at least 1-2 hours before grilling. This allows it to come to room temperature, ensuring even cooking. Pat it dry with paper towels and rub it generously with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Set up your grill for indirect heat by placing the coals (or burners) on one side. Preheat to 250-275°F. If using a charcoal grill, add soaked wood chips for an extra smoky flavor.
Step 3: Start Grilling
Place the prime rib on the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat). Cover the lid and cook low and slow until the internal temperature reaches:
- 120-125°F for rare
- 130-135°F for medium-rare
- 140-145°F for medium
Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature! This step takes about 2-3 hours, depending on the size of your roast.
Step 4: Sear for the Perfect Crust
Once the roast is close to your desired doneness, transfer it to the hot side of the grill. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the prime rib from the grill and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and juicy. Slice and serve with your favorite sides!
Pro Tips for Making the Best Prime Rib on the Grill
- Let it Come to Room Temperature – This ensures even cooking and prevents the roast from being cold in the center.
- Use a Meat Thermometer – This is the best way to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
- Reverse Sear for the Best Texture – Cooking low and slow first, then finishing with a high-heat sear, gives the juiciest results.
- Resting is Crucial – Cutting too soon will cause the juices to run out, making the meat dry. Be patient!
How to Serve
This grilled prime rib roast is a showstopper on its own, but here are some delicious ways to serve it:
- Classic Style – Pair with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted Brussels sprouts for a perfect holiday meal.
- With a Bold Sauce – Serve with horseradish sauce or a red wine reduction for an extra gourmet touch.
- Steakhouse Vibes – Add grilled asparagus and a fresh Caesar salad to round out the meal.
- Sandwich Leftovers – Use leftover slices to make epic prime rib sandwiches with caramelized onions and melted cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
- Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Wrap slices tightly in foil or plastic wrap to keep them juicy.
Freezing
- Prime rib freezes well! Wrap it in plastic wrap + foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
- Oven: Warm at 250°F until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Skillet: Sear slices quickly over medium heat for a fresh-from-the-grill taste.
- Sous Vide: For the best results, reheat using a sous vide setup at 130°F for 30 minutes.
FAQs
1. How do I choose the best prime rib?
Look for good marbling (white fat running through the meat), a bright red color, and bone-in for extra flavor. USDA Prime or Choice grades are best!
2. Can I grill a prime rib without a bone?
Yes! A boneless prime rib will cook slightly faster, but the process remains the same. Just be sure to use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
3. What’s the best wood to use for smoking a prime rib?
Hickory, mesquite, oak, or cherry wood add incredible smoky flavors. Hickory gives a bold taste, while cherry adds a slight sweetness.
4. How long does it take to grill a prime rib?
Cooking time depends on the size of the roast, but generally, it takes 2-3 hours over indirect heat plus a quick sear at the end. Always rely on a meat thermometer for perfect results.
This Grilled Prime Rib Roast Recipe is the ultimate way to bring steakhouse-quality flavor to your backyard grill. Whether for a holiday feast or a special occasion, this method guarantees a juicy, tender roast with a perfectly smoky crust. If you love bold beef flavors, you might also enjoy our Ribeye Roast Recipe for a classic oven-roasted option or this Slow Cooker Prime Rib Recipe for a hands-off approach. For those who love deep, smoky flavors, try our Smoked Ribeye Roast or go for a fall-apart tender dish with this Beef Rib Steak Slow Cooker Recipe. Get ready to impress your guests—this one’s a keeper!
🔥 Now, fire up your grill and let’s make some magic! 🔥
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Grilled Prime Rib Roast Recipe – Perfectly Juicy & Flavorful
- Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Indulge in the rich, smoky flavors of this Grilled Prime Rib Roast—a show-stopping centerpiece that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With a perfectly seared crust and a tender, juicy interior, this roast is ideal for special occasions or any time you want to impress your guests with a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients
- Prime Rib Roast: A bone-in or boneless cut, preferably well-marbled for maximum flavor.
- Kosher Salt: Enhances the natural taste of the beef.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth.
- Garlic Cloves: Minced to infuse the meat with aromatic richness.
- Fresh Rosemary: Chopped; imparts a fragrant, earthy note.
- Fresh Thyme: Chopped; adds a subtle, minty flavor.
- Olive Oil: Binds the seasoning and helps achieve a crisp crust.
Instructions
Prepare the Roast: Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 1 hour. This ensures even cooking.
Season the Meat: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, and olive oil to form a paste. Rub this mixture evenly over the entire roast.
Preheat the Grill: Set up your grill for indirect cooking and preheat it to 250°F (121°C). For charcoal grills, place the coals on one side; for gas grills, light burners on one side only.
Grill the Roast: Place the roast on the cooler side of the grill, bone-side down if applicable. Close the lid and cook until the internal temperature reaches 110°F (43°C) for rare, approximately 2 hours.
Sear the Roast: Increase the grill’s temperature to 400°F (204°C). Move the roast directly over the heat source and sear each side for about 5 minutes, or until a dark brown crust forms.
Rest Before Serving: Remove the roast from the grill and tent it loosely with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for 15-20 minutes; the internal temperature will rise to about 120°F (49°C) for rare. Slice and serve.
Notes
- Choosing the Roast: Opt for a well-marbled prime rib, as the fat content enhances flavor and tenderness.
- Seasoning Ahead: For deeper flavor, season the roast and let it sit uncovered in the refrigerator overnight.
- Temperature Monitoring: Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure accurate doneness.
- Resting Importance: Allowing the meat to rest before slicing ensures the juices redistribute, resulting in a moist and tender roast.
- Prep Time: 1 hour (plus optional overnight seasoning)
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 ounces (170 grams)
- Calories: 298
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 60mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9.6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14.4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 0mg
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 19.2g
Keywords: grilled prime rib roast, BBQ prime rib, smoked prime rib, holiday roast, beef roast recipe