This Easy Standing Rib Roast is a showstopper for any feast! With juicy, tender meat and a tasty crust, it’s perfect for making special memories at the dinner table.
You only need a few ingredients and some time to cook this beauty. Just season, roast, and let it rest. I love serving it with roasted potatoes—it’s a meal that’s hard to beat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Standing Rib Roast: This is the star of the show. Look for a well-marbled roast for juiciness. If you’re in a pinch, a ribeye roast can work as a substitute, although the presentation won’t be the same.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives fantastic flavor, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. About 1 teaspoon of garlic powder equals one clove of fresh garlic!
Kosher Salt: This salt helps in crusting and flavoring. If you don’t have it, use sea salt, but use slightly less since it’s finer. Sea salt can be saltier than kosher salt.
Fresh Herbs (Rosemary and Thyme): Fresh herbs offer vibrant taste. Dried herbs are a good substitute – just use about a third of the amount since they are more concentrated. Personal tip: I love using a mix of both for depth!
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and aids in searing. You can substitute it with melted butter for a richer flavor or avocado oil, which has a high smoke point.
How Do I Ensure a Perfect Crust on My Rib Roast?
Getting a beautiful crust is key for flavor. Start by patting your roast dry with paper towels. This removes moisture that can prevent browning. Then, generously apply the herb and garlic paste all over.
- Preheat your oven to a high temperature – 450°F (232°C) – for the first 15 minutes to lock in flavor and create that crust.
- After 15 minutes, lower the temperature to continue cooking gently. Don’t skip the resting time afterward; it’s crucial for juicy meat!
How to Make an Easy Standing Rib Roast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Roast:
- 1 (4 to 6 pounds) standing rib roast
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary)
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Optional Gravy:
- 1 cup beef broth (optional, for the pan)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious standing rib roast takes about 15 minutes to prep and between 1 to 1.5 hours to cook, depending on the weight of the roast and your desired doneness. Plus, you’ll want to let it rest for 15-20 minutes after cooking. So, set aside about 2 to 2.5 hours for the whole process, and you’ll have a beautiful centerpiece for your meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). This high temperature will help create that perfect crust on your roast.
2. Prepare the Roast:
Using paper towels, pat the rib roast dry all over. This is important for getting a nice sear. Place the roast on a rack in a roasting pan with the bone side down. This allows air to circulate around the meat while it cooks.
3. Make the Flavor Paste:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, kosher salt, black pepper, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, and olive oil. This creates a flavorful paste that you’ll rub all over the roast.
4. Season the Roast:
Using your hands, rub the garlic-herb mixture evenly all over the standing rib roast. Make sure to cover every side so that your roast is packed with flavor!
5. Start Roasting:
Now, place the seasoned roast in your preheated oven. Roast it for 15 minutes to get that beautiful crust on the outside.
6. Adjust Temperature and Continue Cooking:
After the first 15 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325°F (163°C). Continue cooking the roast until it reaches your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature:
- 120°F (49°C) for rare
- 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare
- 140°F (60°C) for medium
- 160°F (71°C) for well-done
This part might take an additional 1 to 1.5 hours, so keep an eye on that thermometer!
7. Let it Rest:
Once your roast has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the oven. Tent it loosely with aluminum foil and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes. This is key for juicy slices!
8. Make Gravy (Optional):
If you want to make gravy, use the drippings from the roasting pan. Add beef broth and thicken it using a roux or cornstarch slurry. Just stir over heat until it’s nice and smooth!
9. Slice and Serve:
Finally, after resting, slice your delicious standing rib roast and serve it alongside your favorite sides. Enjoy your scrumptious meal!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! While a standing rib roast is recommended for its tenderness and flavor, you can substitute it with other cuts like a prime rib or ribeye roast. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so monitor the temperature closely.
How Do I Adjust Cooking Times for Different Sizes of Roast?
A larger roast will naturally take longer to cook. For every additional pound over 4 pounds, plan for approximately 15-20 extra minutes of cooking time. Be sure to use a meat thermometer for the most accurate results!
Can I Prepare the Garlic Rub in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the garlic and herb rub up to 24 hours in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, simply bring it to room temperature before rubbing it on the roast.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Rib Roast?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, slice the roast and warm it gently in a skillet or the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to keep it moist. Enjoy your leftovers as they’re just as delicious the next day!
