This air fryer prime rib is cooked perfectly and seasoned with the most amazing rub. It’s perfect for special occasions and is the best quick holiday prime rib roast.
Air Fryer Prime Rib Roast
There’s a new way to cook the perfect prime rib for special occasions and holiday dinners: the air fryer! Air fryer prime rib roast turns out incredibly juicy, tender, and flavorful every time. Plus, it’s a breeze to make, leaving you with more time to spend with your loved ones.
The air fryer truly created the most incredible ribeye roast. It was cooked to absolute perfection, with a slightly crispy exterior and a tender, juicy interior.
The rub was phenomenal – garlicky, perfectly seasoned with salt, pepper, and onion powder, and the fresh herbs took it to the next level. The cayenne added just a hint of heat, so feel free to increase the amount if you prefer a spicier kick.
In just 70 minutes of cooking time and a 20-minute rest, the roast reached a perfect medium rare, leaving you plenty of time to prepare the rest of your meal. The air fryer definitely makes holiday cooking quick and easy with this recipe!
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Can You Cook Prime Rib In An Air Fryer?
Absolutely! Cooking a prime rib roast in an air fryer is not only possible but also incredibly easy and delicious. The air fryer circulates hot air around the meat, cooking it evenly and quickly, while also creating a beautiful crust on the outside. Plus, it frees up your oven for other dishes, making it the perfect solution for special occasions and holiday meals.
Ingredients
Boneless Prime Rib: This tender and flavorful cut of beef has a rich and delicious taste that’s perfect for special occasions and holiday meals. Opt for a well-marbled roast and ask your butcher to trim any excess fat for the best results. The boneless cut also makes it easier to slice and serve.
Olive Oil: Olive oil not only helps the seasoning adhere to the meat but also adds a subtle, fruity flavor that complements the beef. It also helps create a nice crust on the exterior of the roast during cooking.
Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the rub, providing a savory and aromatic element to the dish. To get the most flavor, always use fresh garlic cloves and mince them finely to ensure they’re well distributed throughout the rub. Crushing the cloves before mincing can help release their natural oils and enhance their flavor. If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use 1 teaspoon of garlic powder instead.
Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard brings a tangy and slightly spicy note to the rub that pairs beautifully with the beef. It also helps tenderize the meat and create a nice crust during cooking. Look for a good-quality Dijon mustard with a balanced flavor that’s not too overpowering.
Fresh Rosemary and Thyme: These aromatic herbs add a fragrant and earthy flavor to the rub, perfectly complementing the beef. Removing the leaves from the stems before chopping ensures a more even texture.
Kosher Salt: Kosher salt not only seasons the meat but also helps create a crust on the outside of the roast during cooking. Its larger crystals dissolve more slowly, allowing for better flavor penetration.
Coarse Black Pepper: This adds a robust, slightly spicy kick to the rub and pairs well with the beef. Using freshly ground black pepper ensures the best flavor and aroma. Opt for a coarse grind, as it provides a nice texture and doesn’t dissolve too quickly, giving the meat a delicious pepper crust.
Onion Powder, Paprika, and Cayenne: These spices enhance the overall flavor profile of the rub, adding depth and complexity to the dish. Onion powder contributes a savory taste, while paprika adds a hint of sweetness and a touch of smokiness. Cayenne brings a bit of heat to the dish, but feel free to adjust the amount to your personal preference.
Alternative Ingredients
For a different flavor profile, you can try a few variations with the rub. You could add some smoked paprika for a smoky touch, or try using different herbs like fresh sage or oregano. You can also swap out the Dijon mustard for whole-grain mustard or even honey mustard for a touch of sweetness.
How To Make Prime Rib In The Air Fryer
Prepare the prime rib: Start by removing the prime rib from the refrigerator and letting it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. (See the recipe card below for the full printable instructions.)
Make the rub: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to form a paste.
Season the prime rib: Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on the fat cap of the roast. Rub the paste all over the prime rib, making sure to get it into the cuts you made.
Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer for 5 minutes.
Cook the prime rib: Place the prime rib in the air fryer basket with the fat cap facing up. Cook at the higher temperature, then reduce the temperature and cook until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature periodically.
Let the prime rib rest: Once the prime rib is cooked, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest, tented with aluminum foil, until it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F-135°F. This will allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more tender prime rib.
Slice and serve: After it finishes resting, slice the prime rib and enjoy! Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted or mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad. See the recipe card below for the full written instructions, including ingredient amounts, cooking times, and helpful tips, etc.
Pro Tips
- Make sure to trim any excess fat from the prime rib before seasoning it. This will help the rub penetrate the meat more effectively.
- Don’t be afraid to customize the rub to your taste preferences – feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and other seasonings as desired.
- Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast reaches the desired level of doneness (see the temperature chart in the notes).
- To avoid overcooking, keep a close eye on the internal temperature and begin checking it earlier than you think it will be done.
- To keep the prime rib moist, make sure to let it rest before slicing and serving.
- For a perfectly seasoned prime rib, be generous with the rub and make sure it coats the entire roast evenly.
What Is The Secret To Prime Rib Roast?
The secret to a perfect prime rib roast lies in the combination of a well-seasoned rub and the cooking method. In this air fryer prime rib recipe, we use a flavorful paste made from olive oil, garlic, fresh herbs, Dijon mustard, and spices to enhance the natural flavors of the roast. Additionally, cooking the prime rib in an air fryer ensures even heat distribution, creating a beautiful crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
How Long To Cook A Prime Rib Roast In The Air Fryer
The best way to check if your prime rib is finished cooking is by taking the temperature with a meat thermometer. All roasts and air fryers are slightly different, so it’s really the only way to ensure that it’s cooked perfectly.
When air frying a boneless prime rib at 315F after an initial 15-minute sear at 375F, you’ll need to bake it for 10-15 minutes per pound for medium rare. It’s important to begin checking the temperature earlier than you think it will be done. Keep in mind that the temperature will continue to rise 5-10 degrees as it rests. Prime rib is most commonly served medium rare, so I pull it out of the air fryer when it’s 125F knowing that it will rise to 135F. The USDA recommends cooking prime rib to 145F. Here’s the cooking chart of the different temperatures you’re looking for based on your desired doneness:
- RARE: Initial internal temperature of 115F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 120-125F.
- MEDIUM RARE: Initial internal temperature of 125F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 130-135F.
- MEDIUM: Initial internal temperature of 130-135F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 135-145F.
- MEDIUM WELL: Initial internal temperature of 140-145F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 145-155F.
- WELL: Initial internal temperature of 150-155F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 155-165F.
How Do You Keep Prime Rib Moist?
Keeping your prime rib moist relies on two essential factors: seasoning and cooking method. The seasoning paste used in this recipe not only adds flavor but also helps to lock in the meat’s natural juices. Cooking the prime rib in an air fryer allows for even heat distribution and minimal moisture loss, resulting in a tender and moist roast. Additionally, allowing the prime rib to rest after cooking helps retain its moisture and juiciness.
Should You Oil Prime Rib Before Cooking?
Yes, applying oil to your prime rib before cooking is a great idea. In this recipe, we use olive oil as a base for the seasoning paste, which helps the herbs and spices adhere to the roast and forms a beautiful crust during cooking. The oil also aids in even heat distribution and locks in the meat’s natural juices, resulting in a moist and delicious prime rib.
What Is The Difference Between Prime Rib And Prime Rib Roast?
Prime rib and prime rib roast are actually the same cut of meat. Both terms refer to a bone-in or boneless beef roast cut from the rib primal section, which consists of ribs 6 through 12. The term “prime” refers to the high-quality grade of the meat, which is known for its excellent marbling, tenderness, and flavor.
How Much Prime Rib Do I Need Per Person?
It’s a good idea to allocate approximately 1/2 to 3/4 pound of boneless prime rib per person. Keep in mind that this estimate includes plenty for leftovers. A 5-pound boneless prime rib roast, like the one used in this recipe, will generously serve approximately 6-8 people.
What If My Air Fryer Is Too Small For A 5-Pound Prime Rib?
If your air fryer is too small for a 5-pound prime rib, you can opt for a smaller roast or cut the roast into smaller pieces to fit into your air fryer.
Side Dishes To Serve With Prime Rib
My favorite prime rib sides are creamy mashed potatoes, Crockpot green beans, skillet sweet potato cornbread, roasted baby potatoes, moist Jiffy cornbread, Jiffy cornbread with creamed corn, stovetop Velveeta mac and cheese, and baked mac and cheese with Velveeta.
Storage And Reheating
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
To reheat in the oven, place the sliced prime rib on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
To air fry leftover prime rib, place the sliced prime rib in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Warm at 300°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Keep In Touch
I’d love to hear what you thought of this recipe in the comments or on Instagram!@KeyToMyLime#KeyToMyLime
Air Fryer Recipes
While you’re here, check out all of our reader favorite air fryer recipes!
- Air Fried Chicken Tenders
- Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
- Air Fryer Country Style Ribs
- Sweet Potato Cubes in the Air Fryer
Beef Recipes
If you like this recipe, be sure to check out all of our other roasted beef recipes. Some reader favorites are:
- Boneless Prime Rib with an amazing Prime Rib Rub and the best Au Jus
- Best Corned Beef with Homemade Spice Blend
- Instant Pot Frozen Roast
- Bottom Round Roast
- Top Round Roast Beef
Yield: 8 servings
Air fryer prime rib is cooked perfectly and seasoned with the best rub. It’s perfect for special occasions or a quick holiday prime rib roast.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour 10 minutes
Additional Time20 minutes
Total Time1 hour 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 5-pound boneless prime rib roast
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon coarse ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a spicy kick)
Instructions
- Remove the prime rib from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This will help the roast cook more evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, Dijon mustard, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well to form a paste.
- Pat the prime rib dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on the fat cap of the roast. This will help the seasoning penetrate the meat and enhance the flavor.
- Rub the paste all over the prime rib, making sure to get it into the cuts you made. Be generous with the seasoning, ensuring the entire roast is coated evenly.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 5 minutes.
- Place the prime rib in the air fryer basket with the fat cap facing up.
- Cook the prime rib at 375°F for 15 minutes. This initial high heat will help create a nice crust on the outside of the roast.
- After 15 minutes, reduce the air fryer temperature to 315°F. Cook for approximately 50-60 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for medium-rare (keeping in mind that the temperature will rise 5-10 degrees as it rests, check the notes for a temperature chart for the different levels of doneness)*. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature periodically, as cooking times may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer.
- Once the prime rib has reached an internal temperature of 125°F for medium-rare, remove it from the air fryer, place it on a cutting board, and tent it with aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes, until it has reached an internal temperature of 130°F-135°F. This will allow the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a juicier and more tender prime rib.
- After it finishes resting, slice the prime rib and enjoy! Serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted or mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
Notes
*Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your roast reaches the desired level of doneness. For the different levels of doneness, these are the temperatures you’re looking for:
RARE: Initial internal temperature of 115F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 120-125F.
MEDIUM RARE: Initial internal temperature of 125F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 130-135F.
MEDIUM: Initial internal temperature of 130-135F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 135-145F.
MEDIUM WELL: Initial internal temperature of 140-145F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 145-155F.
WELL: Initial internal temperature of 150-155F, rest time of 15-20 minutes, internal temperature after resting of 155-165F.
**Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap, for up to 3 days.
***To reheat in the oven, place the sliced prime rib on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
****To reheat in the air fryer, place the sliced prime rib in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Warm at 300°F for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
Nutrition Information:
Serving Size:
1/8
Amount Per Serving:Calories: 467Total Fat: 6.6gCarbohydrates: 3.5gFiber: 1.2gSugar: 0.1gProtein: 64.4g
Nutrition information isn’t always accurate.
This air fryer prime rib roast recipe is foolproof. It makes a tender, juicy, and flavorful prime rib that will impress all of your family and guests.
