This is the best prime rib rub recipe. It’s the perfect way to season prime rib roast so that it’s flavorful and tender, and I’ll bet you already have all the ingredients in your pantry!

Prime Rib Rub

This prime rib rub is an effortless yet incredible seasoning blend. The kosher salt works to tenderize the beef while enhancing the flavors of rosemary, thyme, and coarse black pepper, with a subtle hint of garlic.

After searing the meat, the rub creates a beautiful, savory crust. This easy-to-make blend takes an already scrumptious cut of meat and elevates it to a whole new level of deliciousness.

This is the rub I always use on our boneless prime rib recipe, and the results are phenomenal every single time. It’s the ideal seasoning for any prime rib dinner, especially during the holiday season. It’s a mouthwatering blend that complements the richness of the prime rib beautifully.

If you want to learn how to cook boneless prime rib, check out that recipe! We also have a delicious air fryer prime rib recipe. Be sure to serve it with a side of au jus for the most amazing Christmas dinner.

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Ingredients

Dried Rosemary: I love using dried rosemary in this rub because it adds a delicious earthy flavor that complements the beef perfectly.

Dried Thyme: Thyme adds a subtle, savory note that works wonderfully with the other spices in this rub.

Coarse Black Pepper: The bold and slightly spicy taste of black pepper helps to bring out the natural flavors of the prime rib.

Garlic Powder: This adds a hint of garlicky goodness that melds beautifully with the other spices.

Paprika: Paprika provides a touch of smokiness and a gorgeous color to the crust of your prime rib.

Kosher Salt: The coarse texture of kosher salt helps to create a delicious crust while also seasoning the meat throughout.

How To Make Prime Rib Rub

Prepare the rub: In a small bowl, combine the rosemary, thyme, pepper, and paprika (leaving the salt out). Stir together while breaking the rosemary up with the back of a spoon. (See the recipe card below for the full printable instructions.)

Dry the prime rib: Use a paper towel to pat your prime rib dry, removing any excess moisture.

Season with salt: From a height of about 6″ above the prime rib, use your fingers to sprinkle the salt evenly over all sides of the roast.

Apply the rub: Sprinkle the rub over the prime rib. Use your fingers to gently spread the rub out and massage it into the meat as you go.

Wrap and refrigerate: Tightly wrap the prime rib in plastic wrap twice, then place it on a plate and refrigerate for at least 6 hours (up to 24 hours). This allows the roast to absorb the flavors from the rub. See the recipe card below for the full written instructions, including ingredient amounts, cooking times, and helpful tips, etc.

Pro Tips

• For an even more intense flavor, toast your spices briefly in a dry pan over low heat before mixing them into your rub. This will release their natural oils and enhance their taste.
• When applying the rub, be sure to massage it into the meat thoroughly, covering every nook and cranny for a well-seasoned roast.
• Allow the prime rib to come to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking throughout.

Why Do You Salt Prime Rib?

Salting your prime rib is essential for three reasons: tenderizing the meat, enhancing its flavor, and helping it develop a crust. The salt works its way into the muscle fibers, breaking them down and resulting in a more tender roast. Additionally, it helps the meat retain moisture, ensuring your prime rib is juicy and delicious. Salting your prime rib also creates a delicious crust when cooked.

Should You Rub A Prime Rib The Night Before?

Ideally, you should season your prime rib the night before cooking. Allowing the meat to rest with the dry rub for at least 6 hours, or even up to 24 hours, will help the flavors penetrate more deeply and create a more flavorful roast.

Should You Oil Prime Rib Before Seasoning?

Oiling your prime rib before seasoning is not necessary, as the natural fat in the meat will render and baste the roast during cooking. However, you can lightly coat the meat with olive oil or melted butter before applying the rub if you prefer.

Should I Cover Prime Rib After Seasoning?

After seasoning your prime rib, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap twice and refrigerate it for at least 6 hours (up to 24 hours) to allow the meat to absorb the flavors from the rub.

Can I Make The Rub Ahead Of Time And Store It?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rub in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 6 months.

Can I Use This Rub On Other Cuts Of Meat?

This rub works well on other beef cuts, such as ribeye steaks, filet mignon, and tri-tip. You can also use it on pork or chicken for a flavorful twist.

Keep In Touch

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Seasoning Recipes

Making your own spice blends is one of the easiest and quickest ways to level up the flavor of your dinner. Some of the most popular seasoning recipes on the site are:

• Corned Beef Seasoning
• Shawarma Seasoning
• Mediterranean Seasoning
• Taco Seasoning

This prime rib rub recipe is not only simple and easy to prepare, but it also delivers a flavorful and tender roast every time.