salt encrusted prime rib recipe

The Best salt encrusted prime rib recipe

I have been making salt encrusted prime rib for years and it is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. The salt crust locks in all the juices and makes the meat incredibly tender and flavorful. My kids love when I make this for special dinners because the crust comes off like a giant salt dome and it feels like a show.

The prime rib comes out perfectly pink from edge to edge every single time. This recipe is perfect for holidays like Christmas or New Year’s Eve but honestly I make it for Sunday dinners too when I want something special. The salt crust does all the work so you do not have to stand over the stove.

You just rub the roast with herbs and spices then pack on a thick layer of salt and egg whites. The oven does the rest and the result is a beautiful crust that cracks open to reveal juicy tender beef. Health wise this is a great choice because you control the salt and seasonings.

The salt crust does not make the meat salty it just seals in moisture. Prime rib is rich in protein and iron which is good for energy and muscle health. I serve it with roasted vegetables and a simple salad to balance out the meal.

It is a hearty dish that feels indulgent but can fit into a balanced diet when you watch your portions. I love how this recipe brings my family together around the table. The aroma fills the whole house and everyone gets excited when I bring the roast out.

The kids love helping me crack the crust open and the adults appreciate the perfect medium rare inside. It is one of those recipes that feels fancy but is actually simple to make. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as we do.

Salt Encrusted Prime Rib

4.9 from 1377 votes

A show stopping prime rib roasted inside a salt crust that locks in moisture and flavor. The crust cracks open to reveal perfectly cooked tender beef.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 50 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Prime Rib

1 (5 to 6 pound) bone in prime rib roast
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 tablespoon dried thyme
4 cloves garlic minced

For the Salt Crust

4 cups kosher salt
1/2 cup water
4 large egg whites

👨‍🍳Directions

1Take the prime rib out of the refrigerator 2 hours before cooking to let it come to room temperature.
2Pat the roast dry with paper towels so the seasoning sticks better.
3Preheat your oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.
4Rub the prime rib all over with olive oil then sprinkle with black pepper rosemary thyme and minced garlic.
5Press the seasonings into the meat so they adhere.
6In a large bowl mix together the kosher salt water and egg whites until the mixture looks like wet sand.
7It should hold together when squeezed but not be too wet.
8Place the seasoned prime rib in a large roasting pan fat side up.
9Pack the salt mixture evenly over the entire roast pressing it firmly so it forms a thick crust about 1/2 inch thick.
10Make sure no meat is exposed.
11Roast the prime rib at 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes to set the crust.
12Then reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and continue roasting until the internal temperature reaches 125 degrees Fahrenheit for medium rare.
13This usually takes about 2 hours for a 5 pound roast.
14Remove the roast from the oven and let it rest for 20 minutes.
15The temperature will rise to about 130 degrees Fahrenheit during resting.
16Use a knife and your hands to crack and remove the salt crust.
17It should come off in large chunks.
18Slice the prime rib against the grain into thick pieces and serve immediately.
19The meat will be juicy and perfectly pink from edge to edge.

🔧Equipment

Large roasting pan
Mixing bowl
Instant read thermometer
Aluminum foil
Chef’s knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 38g💛Saturated Fat: 15g❤️Cholesterol: 135mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 2g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 0g🥩Protein: 45g

📝Notes

Letting the roast rest after cooking is crucial for the juices to redistribute. Use an instant read thermometer for the most accurate doneness. Leftover prime rib makes excellent sandwiches the next day.

Watch Video Of How Salt Encrusted Prime Rib Works

Leftover prime rib should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat place slices in a baking dish with a splash of beef broth and cover with foil then warm in a 300 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes.

This method keeps the meat moist and tender without drying it out. For serving I like to slice the prime rib thick and serve it with creamy horseradish sauce and roasted potatoes.

It also makes amazing sandwiches the next day with some arugula and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This recipe is always a good idea for family gatherings because it looks impressive but is actually simple to make.

The salt crust does all the work and the result is a beautiful juicy roast that everyone loves.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Salt Encrusted Prime Rib

1. Can I use table salt instead of kosher salt for the crust?

No, you should use kosher salt because it has a larger grain size and creates a better crust. Table salt is too fine and will make the crust too dense and hard to remove. It can also make the meat overly salty.

2. How do I know when the prime rib is done?

Use an instant read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the meat away from the bone. For medium rare aim for 125 degrees Fahrenheit before resting. The temperature will rise about 5 degrees while it rests. The salt crust will be hard and lightly browned when done.

3. Can I make this recipe without the bone?

Yes you can use a boneless prime rib roast. The cooking time will be slightly shorter so start checking the temperature about 30 minutes earlier. The bone adds flavor and helps the meat cook more evenly but boneless works fine too.

4. Why does the salt crust not make the meat too salty?

The salt crust forms a hard shell that seals in the juices but does not penetrate deeply into the meat. Most of the salt stays in the crust which you remove before serving. The result is perfectly seasoned beef without being overly salty.

5. How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat place slices in a baking dish with a little beef broth and cover with foil. Warm in a 300 degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes. This keeps the meat moist without drying it out.

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