Gather Together With This Tasty Rotisserie Recipe

If you're searching for a simple yet impressive main course to wow your family and friends this holiday season, look no further than this delectable rotisserie prime rib recipe. This "set it and forget it" method of cooking not only guarantees a mouthwatering outcome but also frees up space indoors for perfecting those complementary sides and desserts. Plus, the rotisserie method ensures a tender, juicy, and unbelievably flavorful roast with a tantalizing crispy exterior. Whether you're hosting a casual gathering or a formal holiday feast, this dish is bound to impress. And just wait until you experience the heavenly aroma that fills your home once you bring this showstopper inside—your guests won’t be able to resist its charm.

Regardless of whether you’re new to rotisserie cooking or consider yourself a seasoned pro, this recipe is crafted with both beginners and experts in mind. Here are some essential tips to ensure your prime rib turns out nothing short of perfection, along with some decadent sides that pair beautifully with this dish.

Secure Your Prime Rib with Kitchen Twine

One of the keys to keeping your prime rib securely fastened on the rotisserie forks is a tight binding. Using food-grade kitchen twine, carefully wrap the entire roast with 4 to 5 firm knots. While aesthetics aren’t important here, functionality is key. Once your roast is cooked and removed from the grill, simply snip the twine before slicing and dispose of it.

Create a Flavorful Rub for Maximum Impact

When it comes to seasoning your prime rib, attention to detail is paramount. The outer layer of salt-crusted goodness is the first taste your guests will experience, making seasoning crucial. Opt for coarse sea salt instead of regular table salt—it contains less sodium and offers a richer, more robust flavor. Combine all the seasonings in a bowl and use your hands to massage the mixture evenly across the meat. Wearing kitchen gloves can make this process easier. For an added touch of flavor, slip fresh rosemary sprigs beneath the twine. Rosemary’s aromatic qualities will infuse the roast with deep, earthy notes. Once seasoned, loosely cover the prime rib with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature.

Room Temperature Is Key

Before you fire up the grill, ensure your roast reaches room temperature. This step is vital for achieving a tender, juicy result. Depending on the size of your roast, this could take about 2 to 2.5 hours after removing it from the fridge. The best way to gauge readiness is by using a meat thermometer. You’ll also need the thermometer to monitor the roast’s internal temperature during cooking.

Time to Fire Up the Grill

With your prime rib securely fastened and seasoned, it’s time to get grilling. Place the roast on the rotisserie forks and set your timer. Keep your meat thermometer nearby and check the temperature every 15 to 20 minutes. Here’s a guide to cooking times:

• For rare: 110 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit

• For medium-rare to medium: 115 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit

• For well-done: 130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit

Pro Tip: Remember, the roast will continue to cook another 10 degrees after being removed from the grill. To enhance your dining experience, place an oven-safe pan beneath the meat to collect the drippings, which can later be used to make a rich Au Jus sauce.

Let the Prime Rib Rest Before Slicing

Once your prime rib is off the grill, allow it to rest before carving. This crucial step enables the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist and flavorful final product. If you carve the roast immediately after removing it from the grill, the juices will escape, affecting the taste and texture. Aim for a resting period of 25 to 30 minutes.

Rotisserie Prime Rib Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 prime rib roast, approximately 5 pounds at room temperature

• 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon garlic powder

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt

• 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning

• Fresh rosemary sprigs

• Food-grade kitchen twine

• Meat thermometer

Instructions:

• Tie the prime rib securely with kitchen twine, creating 4 to 5 tight knots.

• Mix the seasonings thoroughly and rub them evenly over the entire roast. Tuck fresh rosemary sprigs under the twine.

• Preheat your rotisserie grill to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Insert the rotisserie forks into the prime rib.

• Place the roast onto the rotisserie attachment and cook for 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your desired level of doneness.

• Remove the prime rib from the grill and tent it with aluminum foil. Allow the meat to rest for 25 to 30 minutes.

• Slice and serve.

Sauces to Elevate Your Prime Rib Experience

Sauce Pairings for Prime Rib

While a perfectly cooked rotisserie prime rib is already a culinary delight, adding a few special sauces can elevate the experience even further. Two of the most popular accompaniments are horseradish sauce and Au Jus. Au Jus, meaning “with juice” in French, is a light, broth-like sauce made from the flavorful drippings collected during cooking. To capture these drippings, place an oven-safe pan beneath the roast while it cooks. Horseradish sauce complements the richness of prime rib beautifully, offering a cool, tangy contrast to the savory beef.

Horseradish Sauce Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup sour cream

• 2 tablespoons drained prepared horseradish

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh chives, plus extra for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing bowl, combine all ingredients until smooth. Serve alongside the prime rib. Cover and refrigerate for up to two weeks.

Au Jus Sauce

Ingredients:

• Drippings from the prime rib

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 to 2 tablespoons dry red wine

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• Pinch of salt and black pepper

Instructions:

• Combine all ingredients in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

• Simmer for 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce.

• Remove from heat and let cool. Skim off any visible fat while cooling.

• Serve alongside the prime rib. Cover and refrigerate for up to three days.

Side Dish Suggestions for Your Prime Rib Holiday Feast

No holiday meal would be complete without a variety of complementary sides to accompany your prime rib. Here are some classic options that will impress your guests and complement the richness of the dish:

• Creamy mashed potatoes

• Classic wedge salad with creamy dressing

• Buttery egg noodles

• Roasted Brussels sprouts

• Twice-baked potatoes

• Cole slaw

• Green bean casserole

• Roasted potatoes

• Seven-layer salad

• Candied sweet potatoes

• Steamed carrots

• Romaine salad with vinaigrette

Don’t forget to serve warm dinner rolls and butter to round out the meal. Enjoy!