This Easy Standing Rib Roast is perfect for beginners wanting to impress at dinner. With tender meat and a beautiful crust, it’s truly a showstopper on your table!
The great part? Just season it, let it cook, and relax while it works its magic in the oven. I love pairing it with some easy veggies for a complete meal—delicious and stress-free! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Standing Rib Roast: Choose about a 4–6 pound roast for a good balance of meat to fat. If you can’t find this cut, a prime rib or ribeye roast will work too but adjust cooking time since they can be smaller.
Olive Oil: This is wonderful for creating a nice crust. You can use vegetable or canola oil if you want a more neutral flavor or have an olive oil allergy.
Garlic: Fresh garlic brings amazing flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder will work too—use about 1 teaspoon in place of each clove, but fresh is always best!
Herbs: I love thyme for a classic taste, but rosemary works well too! If you want a different twist, consider using Italian seasoning, or even herbes de Provence.
How Do I Get the Perfect Roast Every Time?
The roast’s resting time is just as important as cooking it. This step keeps the meat juicy. If you slice it right after cooking, all those lovely juices will run out. So, after cooking, let the roast rest for at least 20 minutes—don’t rush this part!
- Remove it from the oven and gently cover it with foil.
- During this resting time, you can prepare sides or set the table.
Also, using a meat thermometer is key to avoiding overcooking. Insert it into the thickest part of the roast, away from the bones, for the most accurate reading. Happy cooking!
Easy Standing Rib Roast Recipe for Beginners
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 standing rib roast (about 4–6 pounds, 3–4 ribs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
- Optional: fresh herbs for garnish (rosemary, thyme)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then around 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking, plus resting time of 20 minutes. Make sure you give yourself some extra time for the roast to come to room temperature before cooking. In total, you’ll need about 3 hours from start to delicious finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bring the Roast to Room Temperature:
Take the rib roast out of the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 1–2 hours. This helps the meat cook evenly, so you get that perfect juicy center.
2. Preheat the Oven:
While your roast is warming up, preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Get it nice and hot!
3. Prepare the Roast:
Using paper towels, pat the roast dry until there’s no moisture on the surface. This will help to form a beautiful crust when cooking. Next, rub the entire roast with olive oil to help the seasoning stick and promote browning.
4. Season the Roast:
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and dried thyme (or rosemary). Now, rub this flavorful mixture all over the roast—don’t forget to cover the fat cap and sides!
5. Get the Roast in the Oven:
Place your roast bone-side down (fat side up) on a rack in a roasting pan. The rack allows heat to circulate around the meat for even cooking.
6. Create a Flavorful Crust:
Roast in the preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 15 minutes. This initial high heat gives your roast a lovely crust!
7. Reduce the Heat:
After the first 15 minutes, lower the oven temperature to 325°F (165°C). Keep roasting until a meat thermometer, inserted into the thickest part of the roast (away from the bones), reads 120–125°F (49–52°C) for rare or 130–135°F (54–57°C) for medium-rare. Keep an eye on it! This usually takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
8. Let It Rest:
Once it’s done, take the roast out of the oven and tent it loosely with foil. Let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving. This resting time is crucial for juicy meat!
9. Carve and Serve:
After resting, slice between the ribs or into your desired thickness. Serve warm and garnish with fresh herbs if you like. Enjoy your delicious standing rib roast!
With just a few simple steps and love, you’ll have a stunning roast that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Smaller or Larger Roast?
Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. A smaller roast (around 3 pounds) may take about 1–1.5 hours, while a larger one (8 pounds or more) could take 2.5 to 3 hours. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Garlic?
No worries! You can substitute fresh garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of garlic. While it won’t have the same punch, it will still add flavor!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover roast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze leftover slices. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag—just reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy again!
What Sides Pair Well with Standing Rib Roast?
This roast pairs beautifully with classic sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. For an elegant touch, serve with a rich gravy or horseradish sauce!
