Juicy, tender and full of flavor, this Air Fryer Prime Rib is the perfect centerpiece for a special dinner. Coated with olive oil, fresh herbs and aromatic spices, the prime rib cooks to perfection in the air fryer. It has a beautifully seared crust and a tender, flavorful interior.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also cuts down on traditional cooking time, making it an excellent choice for holidays, celebrations, or any occasion when you want to impress your guests.
If you’re interested in more air fryer recipes, check out this delicious Frozen Ribeye Steak in the Air Fryer, Air Fryer Fireball Glazed Ribs, Air Fryer Steak Tostadas or Blackstone Ribs!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Prime Rib
- Perfectly Cooked: Cooked in the air fryer, this prime rib has a golden crust and juicy, tender meat.
- Rich Flavor: This Air Fryer Prime Ribe is seasoned to perfection with garlic, rosemary, thyme and smoked paprika.
- Quick and easy: Compared to traditional oven-roasting, the air fryer speeds up the cooking process without compromising quality. So quick and easy to make!
- Versatile: You can easily pair this prime rib recipe with any of your favorite sides for a full meal.
Ingredients Needed
- Prime Rib – A 6-pound cut is ideal for this recipe, but you can adjust the size based on the number of servings.
- Olive Oil – Gives the meat a golden crust. I recommend using olive oil spray.
- Salt and Black Pepper – Essential seasonings for bringing out the meat’s natural flavors.
- Smoked Paprika – Adds a subtle smoky flavor and a touch of color to the crust.
- Garlic Powder and Crushed Garlic – Infuses the meat with a rich, savory aroma.
- Fresh Rosemary and Thyme – Classic herbs that pair beautifully with prime rib.
How to Make Air Fryer Prime Rib
Step 1: Prepare the Prime Rib
Pat dry the prime rib with paper towels. Generously rub the meat with olive oil. Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder over the top and sides of the meat.
Next, rub the crushed garlic onto the surface and sprinkle the fresh rosemary and thyme evenly across the roast.
Step 2: Preheat and Cook
Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). Place the seasoned prime rib in the air fryer basket, fat side up. Cook for 20 minutes to sear the meat and lock in the juices.
After 20 minutes, lower the air fryer temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue cooking for about 55 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches your desired doneness (see the chart below).
Step 3: Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the prime rib from the air fryer and let it rest for about 20 minutes. Slice, plate, and serve with your favorite sides.
Temperature Chart: Doneness Guide
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of your prime rib for the ideal finish:
- Rare: 120–125°F (49–52°C)
- Medium-Rare: 130–135°F (54–57°C)
- Medium: 135–145°F (57–63°C)
- Medium-Well: 145–155°F (63–68°C)
- Well-Done: 160°F (71°C) and above
Variations
- Herb-Crusted Prime Rib: Add chopped parsley, sage, or oregano to the seasoning blend.
- Garlic Butter Prime Rib: Spread softened garlic butter over the meat after cooking for extra flavor.
- Spiciness: Mix in cayenne pepper or red chili flakes with the seasonings for a spicy twist.
- Mustard Coating: Brush Dijon mustard over the meat before adding the herbs for a tangy, flavorful crust.
What to Serve with Air Fryer Prime Rib
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, they pair perfectly with the rich flavors of the prime rib.
- Air Fryer Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus make for colorful, healthy sides.
- Coleslaw: A simple coleslaw salad helps balance out the richness of the dish.
- Red Wine Sauce: Drizzle a rich, velvety sauce over the prime rib for an elevated dining experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I store leftover prime rib? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I reheat prime rib? Reheat slices of prime rib in the air fryer at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes, or until warmed through.
Can I use a boneless prime rib? Yes, a boneless prime rib works just as well. Adjust the cooking time slightly based on the weight of the roast.
What if my air fryer is too small for a 6-pound roast? You can cut the roast into smaller pieces and cook them in batches. Cooking time will be reduced for half the size prime rib. Be sure to monitor the temperature for each piece to ensure even doneness.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Yes, but fresh herbs provide more flavor. If using dried herbs, reduce the quantity by half.
More Easy Air Fryer Recipes
- AIR FRYER PEPPERONI BASIL TOMATO PUFFS
- AIR FRYER APPLEBEE’S COPYCAT MOZZARELLA STICKS
- EASY AIR FRYER BOSTON BROWN BREAD
- AIR FRYER HOMEMADE PIZZA ROLLS
- AIR FRYER FRIED GREEN TOMATOES
- EASY AIR FRYER VEGAN CAULIFLOWER WINGS
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Air Fryer Prime Rib
Description
Ingredients
- 6 pounds prime rib
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoke paprika,
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 cup crushed garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, diced
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F, air fryer setting.
- Remove the prime rib from the packaging.
- Rub the prime rib with the olive oil generously.
- Then sprinkle the top and sides with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
- Cover it with the crushed garlic.
Finally, add the the Rosemary and Thyme all over the meat.
- Place prime rib in your air fryer basket.
- Air fry meat for about 20 minutes at 390 degrees. Then turn the air fryer temperature down to 325 degrees. Continue cooking for about 55 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to temp it and judge the doneness of the inside.
- For a medium rib roast you want the temperature to reach about 135 degrees internally.
- If the temperature inside is too low, continue cooking for an additional ten minutes and check again. Once you’ve reached your desired doneness remove it from the air fryer and allow it to rest for about 20 minutes before slicing!
Equipment
- Cooking Spray
- Parchment Paper, optional
Notes
Nutrition
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Donna Zimmerman
It was my first time ever making prime rib in air fryer. This recipe was by far the easiest and delicious tasting one. I will always use this for a delicious tasting no fuss prime rib. Followed directions and used meat thermometer and presto PERFECT!