What is the trick to cooking prime rib?

The key to perfect prime rib is to cook it low and slow . Whether you're using a pellet smoker or a traditional grill, indirect heat allows the meat to cook evenly and stay juicy. Additionally, don't skip the resting period. Let your prime rib rest for at least 15 minutes after grilling, which helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every slice is tender and flavorful. For more tips on creating juicy, flavorful dishes, check out our grilled teriyaki chicken recipe , where we focus on similar grilling methods.

Is prime rib steak good for grilling?

Prime rib steak, often cut into individual steaks known as ribeyes, is an excellent choice for grilling. Its rich marbling ensures it remains tender and juicy on the grill, and the flavor is second to none. Ribeye steaks are often grilled similarly to prime rib roasts, so applying the same principles to steaks is a great way to achieve a flavorful, well-cooked result.

How to Cook Prime Rib on the Grill: Ultimate Guide to Perfect Grilling (2025)

Name: Grilled Prime Rib
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 prime rib roast (about 5-7 pounds); 2 tbsp kosher salt; 1 tbsp black pepper; 2 tbsp garlic powder; 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped; 1 tbsp olive oil

Description

Grilled prime rib is a showstopper at any gathering. This recipe walks you through the steps to create a tender, flavorful roast with a perfect golden-brown crust.

Ingredients

Scale

1 prime rib roast (about 5–7 pounds)

2 tbsp kosher salt

1 tbsp black pepper

2 tbsp garlic powder

2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Remove the silver skin from the prime rib using a sharp knife.

2. French the bones for a cleaner presentation.

3. Trim excess fat but leave enough fat cap for moisture.

4. Rub the roast with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and rosemary. Let sit for at least 1 hour.

5. Preheat the grill or pellet smoker to 225°F (107°C).

6. Sear the prime rib on direct heat for 2-3 minutes per side, then move to indirect heat to cook until the internal temperature reaches 120°F for rare, 130°F for medium-rare.

7. Rest the prime rib for 15 minutes before carving.

8. Slice and serve!

Notes

For a stronger smoky flavor, use hickory or oak pellets in the smoker.

Make sure to use a meat thermometer for precise cooking.