The quest for a truly magnificent holiday roast often comes with the daunting promise of hours spent in the kitchen. Last year, we unveiled our definitive guide to the Absolute Best Prime Rib, a recipe revered for its traditional approach and spectacular results. This year, we’re revolutionizing the experience, bringing that same exceptional flavor and tenderness into your busy schedule with our incredible Instant Pot Prime Rib. Imagine a melt-in-your-mouth prime rib, perfectly cooked and ready to impress, all achieved in under 45 minutes of active cooking time. This game-changing method liberates you from the oven, offering a stress-free solution for festive feasts or any occasion demanding a show-stopping main course.
Holiday seasons are synonymous with bustling schedules, cherished family gatherings, and joyful celebrations. The last thing anyone wants is to be tethered to the kitchen, missing out on precious moments with loved ones. This is where the Instant Pot Prime Rib truly shines. It’s designed to deliver an unbelievably tender, flavorful roast with unprecedented speed, allowing you to maximize your time with family and friends without compromising on culinary excellence. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to the world of pressure cooking, this recipe demystifies the art of prime rib, making it accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
If you’re yearning for an elegant, impressive dinner in a flash, or if you simply need to free up valuable oven space for an array of holiday baking, look no further. This Instant Pot method ensures a succulent prime rib, cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection in less than an hour from start to finish. It’s a testament to modern cooking technology, proving that gourmet results don’t always require extensive effort. Prepare to surprise and delight your guests with a meal that tastes like it took all day, but only required a fraction of the time.
How to Prepare the Absolute Best Instant Pot Prime Rib
Crafting a perfect prime rib doesn’t have to be an intimidating endeavor. Our step-by-step guide is designed to walk you through every stage, ensuring success even for those new to cooking this premium cut of beef. From expert preparation tips to precise Instant Pot timings, we’ve got you covered. For a visual reference, you can always refer to the detailed video in our original Absolute Best Prime Rib post. Let’s dive into the essential foundational steps for prepping your prime rib.
Preparing Your Prime Rib for Perfection
The cornerstone of a truly exceptional prime rib lies largely in the preparatory work. Proper preparation ensures maximum flavor, optimal texture, and even cooking. Begin by carefully cutting slits into the outer fat layer of your prime rib. Using a very sharp knife, create a criss-cross pattern, with each slit spaced approximately one inch apart. It’s crucial to make these incisions only into the fat, ensuring you do not cut into the underlying meat. This scoring technique allows the fat to render more efficiently during cooking, creating a wonderfully crispy crust while enhancing the overall flavor and tenderness of the roast.
Next, carefully slice down through the meat on the side opposite the ribs, following the natural curve of the bones to separate them from the roast. This step, known as “boning out” the prime rib, makes carving significantly easier after cooking. You can discard the removed ribs, or, for an extra layer of flavor, reserve them to make a rich beef stock or sauce. Once the ribs are removed, liberally rub Kosher salt all over the entire roast, paying particular attention to working the salt deep into the slits you created in the fat layer. This dry brining process is fundamental; the salt penetrates the meat, tenderizing it and enhancing its natural flavors from within. Place the seasoned prime rib on a plate and refrigerate it, uncovered, for a minimum of 24 hours, and ideally up to 96 hours. Leaving it uncovered helps to dry out the surface, which is essential for achieving a beautiful, crisp sear later on.
Approximately two to three hours before you intend to begin cooking, remove the prime rib from the refrigerator. Allowing the roast to come closer to room temperature ensures more even cooking throughout, preventing the meat from seizing up when introduced to heat. At the same time, set out your butter to soften. Softened butter will be much easier to mix with garlic and apply uniformly, creating a delectable, aromatic crust that locks in moisture and infuses the roast with savory notes.
Mastering the Instant Pot Cooking Process
The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking of prime rib, delivering exceptional results with minimal fuss. Begin by activating the “more saute” function on your Instant Pot. Drizzle a small amount of oil into the pot and allow it to heat thoroughly. Carefully place the prime rib into the hot pot and sear each side until it develops a rich, golden-brown crust. This crucial browning step, known as the Maillard reaction, is vital for developing deep, complex flavors that define a truly gourmet roast. Once all sides are beautifully browned, remove the meat from the pot and turn off the Instant Pot.
Pour the beef broth into the Instant Pot. This liquid serves several important purposes: it helps to deglaze the pot, lifting those flavorful browned bits from the bottom, which contributes to the overall richness of the roast and gravy. More importantly, it provides the necessary liquid for pressure generation and helps prevent a “burn” notice from appearing during pressure cooking. Place a sturdy trivet (a metal rack) into the pot, ensuring it is properly positioned to elevate the prime rib above the liquid, preventing it from boiling directly in the broth. In a small bowl, combine the softened butter with the minced garlic, creating an aromatic rub. Season the prime rib liberally with black pepper, then generously coat the entire roast with the fragrant garlic butter mixture. This butter-garlic rub will melt into the meat as it cooks, infusing every bite with savory goodness.
Carefully place the butter-rubbed prime rib onto the trivet within the Instant Pot. Secure the lid, ensuring the sealing valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Cook the prime rib at high pressure for precisely 8 minutes. Once the pressure cooking cycle is complete, the most important step for achieving perfect tenderness begins: do not touch the pressure valve for the next 35 minutes. This is a natural pressure release (NPR), during which the Instant Pot will automatically switch to “Keep Warm” mode. The residual heat and pressure will continue to gently cook the prime rib, bringing it to an ideal medium-rare temperature (typically 130-135°F) through carryover cooking, ensuring it remains incredibly juicy and tender. This extended natural release is crucial for moisture retention and optimal texture. For more detailed insights into Instant Pot cooking and all things prime rib, refer to our comprehensive FAQ section below.
After the 35 minutes of natural pressure release, most, if not all, of the pressure should have dissipated. For safety, carefully release any remaining pressure by turning the valve to the “Venting” position. Once the float valve drops, you can safely remove the lid. Carefully lift the prime rib out of the Instant Pot and transfer it to a cutting board. To achieve that coveted crispy exterior, heat a skillet on your stove over medium-high heat with a small drizzle of oil. Quickly brown each side of the prime rib for a minute or two until a beautiful, crisp sear forms. Alternatively, you can achieve this by placing the roast under a broiler in your oven for a few minutes. Make sure to reserve all the flavorful drippings from the Instant Pot and the skillet, as these are essential for crafting the accompanying gravy.
The All-Important Rest and Slice
Once your prime rib has been beautifully browned, transfer it to a clean cutting board and loosely tent it with aluminum foil. This resting period is absolutely critical and often overlooked. Resting allows the meat’s internal juices, which have been pushed towards the center during cooking, to redistribute throughout the entire roast. Skipping this step would result in a dry, less flavorful prime rib. While the meat rests for 10-15 minutes, you can proceed with making the rich gravy, as outlined in the following section. After resting, slice the prime rib into generous 3/4-inch thick slices. Season the slices with coarse salt to taste, and serve immediately with the luscious gravy. Prepare to be amazed by the tenderness and flavor!
Crafting a Velvety Gravy
A delectable prime rib demands a rich, savory gravy. Fortunately, creating one from your reserved drippings is simple and adds an extra layer of gourmet flair to your meal. First, pour the flavorful drippings collected from both the Instant Pot and the browning skillet through a fine-mesh strainer into a heatproof bowl. Set this strained liquid aside. Next, set your Instant Pot to “sauté” mode. Add approximately three tablespoons of all-purpose flour to any remaining drippings or residue in the pot. Whisk thoroughly and continuously for a couple of minutes, cooking the flour to create a golden-brown roux. This roux will form the flavorful base and thickening agent for your gravy, eliminating any raw flour taste.
Gradually, and while continuously whisking, slowly pour the strained beef drippings into the roux in the Instant Pot. Continue to cook and whisk the mixture until the gravy transforms into a smooth, velvety consistency and thickens to your desired preference. The gradual addition prevents lumps and ensures a silky texture. Taste the gravy and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt and pepper if desired. This homemade gravy, bursting with the natural flavors of the prime rib, will elevate your dining experience, making every bite even more memorable. Serve warm over the sliced prime rib and any accompanying side dishes.
What Should I Serve with Instant Pot Prime Rib?
Pairing your succulent Instant Pot Prime Rib with the right side dishes can transform a great meal into an unforgettable feast. For me, some form of potato is an absolute essential companion to prime rib. Whether it’s our irresistibly creamy mashed potatoes, featuring a buttery richness that perfectly complements the beef, our hearty steakhouse smashed potatoes with their delightful crispy edges, or a classic, fluffy oven-baked potato with a wonderfully crispy skin, potatoes are non-negotiable! Their versatility and comforting appeal make them a perfect canvas for absorbing the delicious prime rib drippings and gravy.
And let’s be honest, who can ever say no to warm, freshly baked bread? Not me! Our incredibly easy herb focaccia bread, infused with fragrant herbs, offers a delightful texture and flavor that’s perfect for soaking up every last drop of gravy. Alternatively, a simple yet tender dinner roll can work wonders, adding a soft, fluffy counterpoint to the rich meat. To ensure a balanced meal, we should definitely include a vegetable or two. I highly recommend serving some vibrant roasted garlic vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or bell peppers, which bring a touch of sweetness and earthiness. Crispy, bright lemon pepper asparagus is another excellent choice, offering a fresh, zesty crunch that cuts through the richness of the prime rib beautifully. These thoughtful pairings will complete your prime rib dinner, making it a truly magnificent spread.
Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Prime Rib
What Exactly Does An Instant Pot Do?
The Instant Pot is a revolutionary multi-cooker designed to consolidate the functions of several kitchen appliances into one versatile machine. It operates primarily as an electric pressure cooker, drastically reducing cooking times by creating a high-pressure environment. Beyond pressure cooking, it can also function as a slow cooker, a rice cooker, a steamer, a sauté pan (which is crucial for searing our prime rib), a yogurt maker (as shown in this recipe), and a warming pot. For this Instant Pot Prime Rib recipe, we harness its powerful sauté function for browning, its efficient pressure cooking capabilities for rapid and even cooking, and its warming feature to gently continue cooking during the natural release phase. Its versatility makes it an indispensable tool for busy home cooks looking to prepare delicious meals efficiently.
What Is The Difference Between An Instant Pot And a Traditional Pressure Cooker?
While both an Instant Pot and a traditional pressure cooker utilize high pressure to cook food rapidly, there are several key distinctions. A traditional stovetop pressure cooker relies on an external heat source, such as a gas or electric stove, to build pressure. In contrast, an Instant Pot is an electric appliance with its own internal heating element, offering precise temperature control. A major advantage of the Instant Pot is its programmability; you can set specific cooking times, delay starts, and even use pre-programmed settings for various dishes, functions that are typically absent in stovetop models. Furthermore, as a multi-cooker, the Instant Pot encompasses at least six other cooking functions beyond just pressure cooking, including slow cooking, steaming, and sautéing, making it a far more versatile appliance for diverse culinary needs. Both devices achieve incredibly high pressure, which is the secret to their accelerated cooking times, but the Instant Pot offers enhanced convenience, safety features, and functional breadth.
Should Cooked Prime Rib Be Pink?
Absolutely, prime rib is traditionally and optimally cooked to a rare or medium-rare doneness. This means the center of the meat should indeed be a vibrant pink color. This preferred level of doneness is crucial for achieving the characteristic tenderness, juiciness, and rich flavor that prime rib is renowned for. It should ideally never be cooked beyond medium (which corresponds to an internal temperature of approximately 140°F), as doing so will cause much of the delicate marbling fat to render out, leaving the meat tough, dry, and chewy. As long as the prime rib has reached a safe internal temperature of 130°F, it is perfectly safe and delicious to eat. The slight pink hue is not just acceptable, but desirable for the best culinary experience.
Is Prime Rib an Expensive Cut of Beef?
Yes, prime rib is generally considered one of the more expensive cuts of beef available, and for very good reason. Its premium price reflects its exceptional quality, flavor, and tenderness. This luxurious cut boasts abundant marbling—intricate streaks of fat woven throughout the muscle—which melts during cooking, imparting an unparalleled depth of flavor and keeping the meat incredibly moist and tender. A full prime rib is sourced from the primal rib section of the cow, specifically spanning the 6th through the 12th ribs, encompassing seven ribs in total. This means you are purchasing a substantial amount of high-quality meat and bones. The specialized butchering and the inherent quality of the cut contribute to its higher price point, positioning it as a centerpiece for special occasions.
Is There Another Name for Prime Rib?
Yes, prime rib is also commonly referred to as standing rib roast. The two terms are often used interchangeably, though “standing rib roast” more explicitly describes how the roast is typically cooked – “standing” on its rib bones in the roasting pan. While a full prime rib consistently contains seven ribs, a standing rib roast, when purchased, can vary in size, containing anywhere from two to seven ribs. This flexibility allows consumers to purchase a size that best suits their needs, whether for a smaller family meal or a large gathering. Regardless of the name, both refer to the same exquisite cut from the rib primal of the beef.
How Many Pounds of Prime Rib for 8 People?
Determining the right quantity of meat for a gathering can often be a tricky calculation! For prime rib, a general rule of thumb is to allocate approximately 1 pound of uncooked prime rib per adult. This generous estimate accounts for bone weight and ensures ample servings, often leaving a little extra for those with heartier appetites or for delicious leftovers. Therefore, to comfortably feed 8 adults, a 4-bone prime rib (which typically weighs around 8-10 pounds) should be more than sufficient. If you are planning to host a larger party, say 20 adults, you would aim for an 8 to 10-bone prime rib, ensuring everyone gets a succulent slice of this magnificent roast.
For even more tips and tricks on mastering the Instant Pot for all your basic cooking needs, don’t forget to download our complimentary Instant Pot Cheat Sheet! It’s packed with essential information to help you cook confidently and efficiently.
Imagine: a juicy, incredibly tender prime rib, delivered to your table in under an hour of active cooking time. It sounds almost too good to be true, doesn’t it? We invite you to try this Instant Pot Prime Rib recipe and experience the magic for yourself! Your holiday guests will be convinced you spent an entire day perfecting this culinary masterpiece, all while you enjoyed a relaxed, stress-free holiday.
Explore More Festive Holiday Recipes:
- Award Winning Instant Pot Turkey
- Cade’s Bananas Foster French Toast
- Orange Cinnamon Butterflake Rolls
- Instant Pot Blueberry French Toast Bake 3 Ways
- Candied Pecan Brussel Sprouts
- Mom’s Sticky Buns
- The Best Potato Rolls
- World’s Best Brown Sugar Ham
- Southern Macaroni and Cheese
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The Absolute Best Instant Pot Prime Rib Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 Pound Standing Rib Roast, Prime Rib
- 2 Heaping Tablespoons of Kosher Salt
- 1 Cup Beef Broth
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Black Pepper
- 4 Tablespoons Butter, Unsalted
- 4-6 Cloves Garlic, minced
Instructions
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Using a very sharp knife, cut slits in the outer surface layer of fat, spaced 1 inch apart, in a criss-cross pattern, much like scoring a baked ham. Do not cut into the meat.5 Pound Standing Rib Roast
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Gently slice down through the meat, following the bones to remove them from the meat. Discard the ribs or reserve for stock.
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Rub 2 heaping tablespoons of Kosher salt over the entire roast and especially rub it into the slits.2 Heaping Tablespoons of Kosher Salt
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Place the meat onto a plate. Refrigerate the meat, uncovered, for at least 24 hours and up to 96 hours.
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Place the meat on the counter to rest for 2-3 hours so it takes the chill off. At the same time, set out the butter to soften.
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Heat the Instant Pot on “more saute” and add a small drizzle of oil. Brown each side of the meat until a rich crust forms. Remove the meat and turn off the pot.
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Place the broth into the Instant Pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.1 Cup Beef Broth
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Place a trivet in the pot.
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Season the meat with pepper.1 1/2 teaspoons Black Pepper
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Mix the butter and minced garlic in a bowl, and rub this mixture all over the prime rib. Carefully lower the meat onto the trivet.4-6 Cloves Garlic, 4 Tablespoons Butter
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Place the lid on the Instant Pot, ensure the sealing valve is closed, and cook at high pressure for 8 minutes.
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Once pressure cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 35 minutes. Do not touch the pressure valve. The Instant Pot will switch over to warming mode, and the meat will continue to cook to an internal temperature of 130-135 degrees.
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After 35 minutes, carefully release any remaining pressure. Remove the roast from the Instant Pot and transfer to a cutting board. Heat a skillet to medium-high heat with a little oil. Brown each side of the roast for a minute or two to achieve a crispy exterior. Alternatively, you can place it under a broiler in the oven. Reserve all drippings and loosely tent the meat with foil on the cutting board to rest. Proceed to the gravy steps.
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Slice meat into 3/4-inch-thick slices. Season with coarse salt to taste and serve with the prepared gravy. Enjoy!
For the Gravy
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Pour the liquid from the browning and Instant Pot cooking through a strainer into a bowl and set aside.
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With the Instant Pot still on the sauté setting, add 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to the drippings left in the pot. Continue to cook the roux mixture for two minutes, whisking constantly until lightly golden.
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Gradually add the strained liquids to the roux and continue cooking, whisking consistently, until the gravy is smooth, thickened, and coats the back of a spoon. Taste and adjust the seasonings as desired.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.