Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib

By:

jeremy

Published:

October 10, 2025

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Creating the perfect Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib is an experience you’ll treasure. Imagine gathering with friends and family, serving up a beautifully cooked piece of meat that looks as impressive as it tastes. The process may seem daunting, but I promise, with a little patience and love, you’ll craft a prime rib that will have everyone asking for seconds. This recipe highlights the beautiful marriage of slow smoking and garlic-infused butter. The slow-smoked flavor wraps around the tender beef, while the rich garlic butter ensures that every bite is juicy and bursting with flavor. You’ll be able to impress your guests or family members, and you might even find yourself wanting to make it for just the two of you on a cozy weekend night. Let’s jump into the details on how you can create your own delightful Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib!

Why This Recipe Works

Creating the perfect Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib requires a harmonious blend of flavors and cooking techniques. The slow smoking process infuses the meat with a rich, smoky flavor while the garlic butter adds moisture and depth, ensuring a tender and juicy final result. This recipe leverages the slow and low method, which maximizes flavor absorption and allows the beef to cook evenly. In doing so, you achieve that ideal melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Why You’ll Love This Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib

This Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib is not just a meal; it’s an experience worth savoring. The beautifully browned crust encasing the succulent interior will surely leave your family and friends in awe. Each bite carries hints of rosemary and thyme, delicately balanced by a robust garlic kick. Perfect for special occasions or a luxurious Sunday dinner, this dish is more than just food; it’s about bringing loved ones together and enhancing every gathering.

Ingredients

5 pounds bone-in prime rib
½ cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick)
3 sprigs rosemary (or 1 tablespoon minced)
6 sprigs finely diced thyme (or 1 tablespoon minced)
5 garlic cloves, peeled
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Preparing the Smoked Garlic Butter

Combine Ingredients for the Garlic Butter

Start by grabbing your food processor. Add the softened butter, rosemary, thyme, garlic cloves, kosher salt, and black pepper. Pulse everything together until the herbs are finely minced and well combined with the butter. You want each spread to reflect those beautiful herb flavors.

Rub the Butter on the Prime Rib

Now, it’s time for the real magic. One hour before you plan to smoke the meat, take your bone-in prime rib and generously rub the garlic herb butter all over its surface. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny. This is your opportunity to enhance the flavor profile, so don’t hold back! Allow the prime rib to sit at room temperature in an aluminum pan. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully together.

Smoking the Prime Rib

Prepare Your Grill

Let’s get your grill ready! Preheat it to a consistent temperature of 225-250°F (107-121°C). This controlled heat allows the meat to absorb the smoky flavor perfectly. It’s essential for achieving that tender finish that melts in your mouth.

Smoke the Prime Rib

Once your grill is at the right temperature, carefully place the prime rib (still in the aluminum pan) on the side opposite the coals. Close the lid and keep an eye on the grill temperature. It’s a good idea to check hourly, making any necessary adjustments to the coals to maintain that sweet spot.

Achieve Your Desired Doneness

Smoke the prime rib using this guideline:
– 35 minutes per pound for rare
– 40 minutes per pound for medium-rare
– 45 minutes per pound for medium

These times help ensure that your prime rib is cooked to perfection based on your preferences.

Rest the Meat

Once you’ve reached your desired internal temperature, gently remove the prime rib from the grill. Wrap it in foil and let it rest for 15-30 minutes. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute. You’ll end up with a much more flavorful and tender piece of meat.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve, consider pairing your Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement its rich flavors. A side of horseradish sauce can elevate the experience even further, providing a spicy contrast to the savory meat. Don’t forget to present it beautifully; it makes the moment even more special.

Tips for Success

Use a meat thermometer to accurately gauge doneness.
Let the prime rib rest adequately to retain its juicy goodness.
Ensure your grill maintains a steady temperature throughout the cooking time.

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider experimenting with different herbal flavors, like smoked herbs or using flavored butters. Another idea is to add a dry rub with spices like paprika or cumin for added depth. Creativity can lead to delightful surprises!

Pairing Ideas

To make your meal shine even brighter, pair this smoky prime rib with a full-bodied red wine or a bold porter beer. These beverages beautifully enhance the meal’s richness. Adding a fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the savory flavors splendidly.

FAQs

1. How long should I smoke the prime rib?
Smoke the prime rib for 35-45 minutes per pound, depending on your desired doneness.

2. Can I use a gas grill for smoking?
Absolutely! You can smoke meat on a gas grill by using a smoker box filled with wood chips.

3. What side dishes go well with prime rib?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and a fresh salad are classic and excellent accompaniments.

4. How do I store leftover prime rib?
Simply refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

5. Can I freeze prime rib?
Yes, you can freeze cooked prime rib for up to 6 months! Just wrap it tightly in foil or use freezer-safe containers.

Your Smoked Garlic Butter Prime Rib, crafted with love and attention, will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of your gatherings, making every celebration feel fantastic. With each slice, the rich flavors and tender texture will resonate with those around you, reminding everyone why we cherish good food, good company, and precious memories shared around the table. Enjoy this glorious dish that beautifully marries smoky complexity with buttery richness.