Classic Roast Prime Rib of Beef Au Jus

Prep:10 mins

Cook:3 hrs

Standing and Resing Time:2 hrs 30 mins

Total:5 hrs 40 mins

Servings:4 to 8 servings

A prime rib served with au jus made from the meat's dripping is a perfect family meal. While it may seem intimidating at first, this recipe is actually quite simple. The perfect prime rib is an easy undertaking if you follow a few key steps. The most important one is using an accurate digital thermometer. This is the only way to ensure it reaches the desired doneness, which hopefully is a perfectly pink medium-rare when the flavor and texture are at their best. 

This prime rib recipe will work no matter what size roast you're cooking. A great rule of thumb to follow is that each rib will feed two guests. If you are ordering a larger prime rib, check with your butcher ahead of time so you get the size you need.

Serve alongside rosemary baby potatoes or mashed potatoes, steamed asparagus, or your favorite side dish.

For the Prime Rib:

• 1 standing beef rib roast 4 to 7 ribs, 9 to 18 pounds

• 2 to 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

• 2 to 3 teaspoons salt (or other larger grain, flake-style salt)

• Fresh coarsely ground black pepper, to taste

For the Au Jus:

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 1 quart (4 cups) beef broth, cold

Roast the Prime Rib

1. Gather the ingredients.

2. Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator and place it in a large roasting pan with at least 3-inch sides.

3. Rub the entire surface of the roast with the butter and coat evenly with salt and pepper. Let the prime rib stand at room temperature for 2 hours.

4. Preheat the oven to 450 F. When the oven is hot, put the roast in and cook for 20 minutes to sear the outside of the roast. After 20 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 325 F and roast until the desired internal temperature is reached (see below). For medium-rare meat, this will take approximately 15 minutes per pound.

5. Transfer the roast to a large platter and loosely tent it with foil. Let it rest 30 min before serving.

Make the Au Jus

While the prime rib is resting, you can make the au jus sauce. 

1. Gather the ingredients for the au jus.

2. Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the fat from the roasting pan and place the pan on the stovetop over medium heat.

3. Add the flour. Cook, while stirring, for 5 minutes to form a roux or paste.

4. Pour in the beef broth and whisk, scraping all the caramelized beef drippings from the bottom of the pan. Increase the heat to high and cook the sauce, whisking often, for 10 minutes or until it reduces and thickens slightly.

5. Adjust the seasoning, strain, and serve alongside the prime rib in a gravy boat or pourable bowl.