Make your next dinner party or special occasion unforgettable with this delicious Ribeye Roast recipe. It features a juicy, tender bone-in ribeye roast seasoned with a simple garlic-herb butter. This dish is sure to wow your guests. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or new to cooking, this easy recipe will help you achieve restaurant-quality beef every time.
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What is a Ribeye Roast?
The ribeye roast is a top-notch cut of beef from the cow’s ribeye section. It’s found between the 6th and 12th ribs. This cut is known for being tender, flavorful, and perfect for special meals.
Understanding the Cut of Meat
Ribeye roast is the main muscle along the cow’s ribs. It’s from the prime rib section, between ribs 6 and 12. This area is famous for its tenderness and rich flavor.
Flavor Profile of Ribeye
The ribeye roast is famous for its tender texture and deep, beefy taste. Its marbling and location make it incredibly tender and flavorful. When cooked right, it’s a true celebration of beef.
Popular Cooking Methods
- Oven Roasting: Sear the roast at a high temperature, then finish cooking at a lower temp for juicy, evenly cooked results.
- Smoking: Infuse the ribeye with irresistible smoky notes by cooking it low and slow in a smoker.
- Sous Vide: Achieve restaurant-quality tenderness by slow-cooking the roast in a water bath at a precise temperature.
Unlike ribeye steaks, which are cut before cooking, the ribeye roast is cooked whole. Then, it’s sliced to serve. This way, it develops its unique flavor and texture as it cooks.
Preparing Your Ribeye Roast
Choosing the perfect holiday roast or beef dinner begins with picking the right meat. A USDA prime grade ribeye roast is a top choice for roasting beef. It’s known for its rich flavor and tender texture, making it a hit at any special event.
Selecting the Right Ribeye
Choose a boneless ribeye roast that’s 3 to 4 pounds. This size is perfect for 8 people. Opt for USDA Prime for the best marbling and flavor.
Trimming and Tying the Roast
After picking your ribeye, pat it dry with paper towels. Let it sit at room temperature before cooking. This ensures it cooks evenly. Trim excess fat if you want, but keep some for flavor and moisture.
If the roast is long or uneven, tie it with kitchen twine at 2-inch intervals. This keeps it even and cooks well.
Seasoning Techniques
Season the roast with kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried sage, and thyme. Rub the seasoning into the meat to help the flavors stick.
Seasoning Ingredient | Amount |
---|---|
Kosher Salt | 2 teaspoons |
Black Pepper | 1 teaspoon |
Garlic Powder | 1 teaspoon |
Dried Sage | 1 teaspoon |
Dried Thyme | 1 teaspoon |
Now your ribeye roast is ready for cooking. Next, we’ll cover the best ways to cook a holiday roast, beef dinner, or roasting beef.
Cooking Methods for Ribeye Roast
There are many ways to cook a ribeye roast to perfection. You can use oven roasting, slow-smoking, or sous vide cooking. Each method brings its own special benefits.
Oven Roasting
To oven roast a ribeye, heat your oven to 500°F. Put the roast in a roasting pan and sear for 15 minutes. Then, lower the oven to 350°F and cook until it’s done to your liking. This is usually around 120°F for medium-rare or 135°F for medium.
Smoking the Ribeye
Smoking your ribeye adds a smoky flavor. Set your smoker to 225-250°F. Cook the ribeye until it’s at your desired temperature. This slow cooking makes the meat taste amazing.
Sous Vide Cooking
Sous vide cooking is precise and consistent. Seal the ribeye in a bag or pouch. Then, cook it in a water bath at 130°F. After, sear it quickly in a hot pan or on a grill for a nice crust.
Whichever method you choose, remember to check the internal temperature and let the meat rest. This way, you’ll have a delicious ribeye roast that will impress everyone.
Cooking Time and Temperature Guidelines
To get the perfect ribeye roast recipe, pay close attention to cooking time and temperature. It’s key to make sure your beef roast hits the right internal temperature. This ensures a juicy, flavorful holiday roast.
Ideal Internal Temperatures
For a rare ribeye roast, take it out of the oven when it’s 105-110°F inside. For medium-rare to medium, aim for 110-115°F. And for well-done, pull it at 130-135°F.
Using a Meat Thermometer
- Put an oven-safe meat thermometer into the thickest part of the beef roast. Make sure it doesn’t touch any bone.
- Keep an eye on the temperature while it cooks. Adjust the heat as needed to get your desired doneness.
- Remember, the temperature will go up a bit as the roast rests. So, take it out just before your target temperature.
Resting the Roast
After cooking, let the ribeye roast recipe rest for 30 minutes on the counter. This lets the juices spread out, making the meat juicier and more flavorful.
Flavor Enhancements and Marinades
Preparing a tasty ribeye steak or beef dinner starts with the right marinade. These options can make your meat recipes even better. They help bring out the best in your ribeye roast.
Classic Herb Marinade
A classic herb marinade is a great choice for ribeye steak. Mix olive oil, fresh rosemary, thyme, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Let the steak marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours. This lets the flavors soak into the meat.
Garlic and Herb Butter
Make your beef dinner special with garlic and herb butter. Soften butter, then mix in garlic, parsley, rosemary, and thyme. Spread it on your ribeye roast before or during cooking. It adds a rich, flavorful touch.
Wine and Soy Sauce Marinade
For a bold taste, try a marinade with red wine, soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper. Mix these and let your ribeye steak or meat recipes soak in the flavors for 30 minutes before cooking.
Choose any marinade or flavor enhancement you like. Make sure to use it well and let it soak into the meat. This simple step can make your beef dinner incredibly tasty.
Sides to Serve with Ribeye Roast
Choosing the right sides for your prime rib or beef dinner is key. Classic options like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, and fresh salads are great. They enhance the rich taste of your holiday roast.
Classic Mashed Potatoes
Homemade mashed potatoes are a comfort food classic. For a special touch, try garlic butter or cheesy Parmesan mashed cauliflower. It’s a tasty, low-carb choice.
Seasonal Vegetables
- Roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic
- Grilled asparagus with lemon and Parmesan
- Sautéed broccolini with garlic and olive oil
- Honey-glazed roasted carrots and parsnips
Fresh Salad Ideas
- Crisp arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and balsamic vinaigrette
- Tomato and burrata salad with basil and balsamic reduction
- Shredded Brussels sprouts salad with apples and pecans
Pairing sides with your prime rib or beef dinner is all about balance and flavor. Serve with fresh-baked artisan bread for a complete holiday roast meal.

Carving and Serving the Ribeye Roast
After your roast beef is cooked to perfection, it’s time to carve and serve it. Let the ribeye roast rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to spread evenly, keeping the meat tender and juicy.
Techniques for Carving
When you’re ready to carve, use a sharp, quality knife. Slice the roast against the grain for tender slices. Cut each slice about 1/2 inch thick, making sure not to tear the meat.
Presentation Tips
- Place the sliced roast beef on a large, attractive platter. Add fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme for garnish.
- Offer flavorful sauces, such as horseradish cream or au jus, on the side.
- For a holiday roast centerpiece, keep the first few slices intact. This showcases the beautifully cooked interior.
Suggested Serving Portions
Plan your roast beef meal with about 1/2 to 3/4 pound of uncooked roast per person. This usually gives 6-8 ounces of cooked meat per serving, ensuring everyone gets enough.
“The secret to a perfect roast beef is not just in the seasoning or cooking method, but also in the way you present and serve it. Carve with care and attention to detail for a truly impressive and delicious dining experience.”
Pairing Wine with Ribeye Roast
Enjoying a ribeye roast is even better with the right wine. Whether it’s for a holiday feast or a special dinner, the right wine makes a big difference.
Red Wine Suggestions
Red wines are classic choices for red meat. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Syrah/Shiraz are great with ribeye roast. Their tannins balance the meat’s fat, making the meal perfect.
White Wine Alternatives
But, some white wines also pair well with ribeye roast. A full-bodied Chardonnay or a rich Viognier can offer a nice contrast. They’re great for those who like white wine.
Non-Alcoholic Pairings
For those who don’t drink alcohol, there are still good options. Sparkling water with lemon, unsweetened iced tea, or a cranberry ginger ale mocktail can cleanse your palate.

Choosing wine or a non-alcoholic drink depends on your taste and the roast’s flavors. Try different things to find the perfect match for your meal.
Leftover Ribeye Roast Ideas
Don’t let leftover ribeye roast go to waste! It’s incredibly versatile. You can make many delicious dishes from it. Try making sandwiches or stir-fries for a tasty treat.
Delicious Sandwich Recipes
Thinly slice the leftover ribeye. Place it on rye bread with horseradish sauce for a tasty sandwich. Or, shred the meat and mix it with barbecue sauce for a pulled ribeye sandwich.
You can also dice the meat. Then, mix it with sautéed onions, peppers, and melted cheese. This makes a great steak and cheese sub.
Steak and Eggs Breakfast
Begin your day with a protein-rich meal. Dice the leftover ribeye and serve it with fluffy scrambled eggs. This steak and eggs dish is a luxurious breakfast that will keep you energized all day.
Ribeye Stir-Fry Recipes
Turn leftover ribeye into a quick stir-fry. Cut the meat into thin strips and sauté it with fresh veggies. Use your favorite Asian sauce, like soy or teriyaki.
Serve it over hot rice for a complete meal. This is a quick and satisfying dish.