Prime rib is a succulent, juicy cut of beef that is perfect for any special occasion—from Christmas dinner to a summer cookout. While it may seem daunting to make prime rib at home, it is actually quite easy—especially if you have an electric smoker.
In this blog post, we will show you how to make prime rib in electric smoker. So, whether you are a beginner smoker or a seasoned pro, this guide will help you create a delicious prime rib that will impress your guests.
You can also check our articles on How Long to Smoke a 6 Pound Brisket, How to Use Pit Boss Electric Smoker, How to Make Electric Smoker Pork Roast, How to Make Perfectly Smoked Burgers, How to Make Babyback Ribs in Electric Smoker, and How to Make Juicy Smoked Beer Can Chicken in Electric Smoker.
What is Prime Rib?
Prime rib is a cut of beef that comes from the cow’s back and ribs. It is well-marbled, meaning it has streaks of fat running through it, which makes it extra tender and flavorful.
It is usually roasted in an oven, but cooking it in an electric smoker imparts a delicious smoky flavor that takes it to the next level.
What does Prime Rib Taste Like?
Because it is so well-marbled, prime rib is incredibly juicy and flavorful. The fat content also makes it rich and hearty, so it’s definitely not a light meal!
The smoky flavor from cooking it in an electric smoker complements the natural beefiness of the meat perfectly. Trust us; your guests will be impressed.
Where to Buy Prime Rib?
The best place to buy prime rib is from your local butcher or grocery store. If you do not have a local butcher, you can also purchase prime rib online from a variety of different websites.
When choosing a piece of prime rib, look for one that has a deep red color with white marbling throughout. You should also make sure that the fat cap (the layer of fat on top of the meat) is intact; this will help keep the meat moist during cooking.
How to Select a Prime Rib?
With a few key factors in mind, choosing the perfect prime rib roast is easy:
Select the Size of Roast
The first thing to consider when selecting a prime rib roast is the size. How many people will you be serving? A good rule of thumb is to allow for 1/2 pound per person. So, if you’re expecting ten guests, you’ll want to purchase a 5-pound roast.
What is your Budget?
Of course, budget is always a consideration. Prime rib can be pricey, but it’s worth it for that special occasion. If you’re on a tight budget, look for a smaller roast. You can also ask your butcher to cut the roast in half, which will save you some money.
Consider the Marbling
When it comes to flavor, marbling is key. Marbling is the amount of fat interspersed throughout the meat, and the more marbling there is, the more flavorful the roast will be. However, too much marbling can make the meat tough, so it’s important to find that happy medium.
Look for beef that has been certified Angus or Hereford. These breeds are known for their superior marbling. Also, be sure to ask your butcher for advice—they’ll be able to steer you in the right direction based on your specific needs.
Bone-In or Boneless
Another factor to consider when selecting your prime rib roast is whether you want it bone-in or boneless. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. Bone-in roasts tend to be more flavorful because the bone adds extra richness to the meat.
However, boneless roasts are easier to carve and serve. It’s really a matter of personal preference—both types of roasts will be delicious!
Preparing a Prime Rib for Smoking
Now that you’ve selected the perfect prime rib roast, it’s time to get it ready for smoking. Here are a few tips to help you prepare your meat:
Thawing your Roast
If your roast is frozen, it will need to be thawed before smoking. The best way to do this is to place it in the refrigerator 24 hours before you plan to smoke it. This will allow it to thaw slowly and evenly, which will help prevent it from drying out.
If you’re short on time, you can also thaw your roast in a sink full of cold water. Just be sure to change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold. Once thawed, cook your roast within 24 hours.
Dry Brining your Roast
Dry brining is a simple process that helps to flavor and tenderize the meat. To dry brine your roast, simply rub it all over with a mixture of kosher salt and spices.
The salt will draw out the moisture from the meat, which will then be reabsorbed along with the flavors of the spices. This process can be done a day or two in advance, which is convenient if you’re planning ahead.
When it comes to spices, you can really use anything you like. A simple mixture of salt, pepper, and garlic powder is always a good choice.
Or, you can get creative and add some dried herbs or a spice rub. Just be sure not to go too heavy on the salt—you don’t want your roast to be too salty.
Trussing your Roast
Trussing is a technique that helps to keep the shape of the roast while it’s cooking. To truss a roast, simply tie it up with kitchen twine. This will help it to retain its shape and prevent it from drying out.
Prime Rib Seasoning
The great thing about prime rib is that it’s delicious, even with just a simple seasoning of salt and pepper. However, if you want to get a little creative, there are endless possibilities when it comes to seasoning your roast. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Herb Rubs
One of the most popular ways to season a prime rib roast is with an herb rub. This is simply a mixture of dried herbs that are rubbed into the meat. There are endless combinations of herbs that you can use, so feel free to get creative. Some popular choices include rosemary, thyme, oregano, and sage.
Spice Rubs
If you’re looking for something a little more flavorful, a spice rub is a way to go. A spice rub is similar to an herb rub, but it uses ground spices instead of dried herbs. This gives the roast a more intense flavor. You can use an endless number of spice combinations. Some popular choices include paprika, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder.
Dijon Mustard
Another popular way to season a prime rib roast is with Dijon mustard. This adds both flavor and moisture to the meat. Simply spread a layer of mustard over the roast before seasoning it with salt and pepper.
Smoking a Prime Rib Roast
Now that your roast is prepared, it’s time to smoke it. Here are a few tips to help you get the perfect prime rib:
Choose the Right Wood
When smoking meat, it’s important to choose the right wood. The type of wood you use will impact the flavor of the meat. Different woods will give your roast different flavors, so feel free to experiment. Some popular choices for prime rib include hickory, mesquite, and apple wood.
Set the Temperature
The next step is to set the temperature of your smoker. For prime rib, you’ll want to smoke it at a low temperature—around 225°F. This will allow the meat to cook slowly and evenly, which will help to prevent it from drying out. Don’t forget to preheat your smoker before adding the meat. This will help to ensure that it cooks evenly.
Smoke Time
The smoking time will vary depending on the size of your roast. A good rule of thumb is to smoke it for about 45 minutes per pound at 225°F. So, if you have a 3-pound roast, you’ll smoke it for about 21/2 hours.
Internal Temperature
The best way to tell if your roast is done is to use a meat thermometer. Prime rib is best-served medium-rare, which means it should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F.
Resting Time
Once your roast is done, it’s important to let it rest before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, which makes for a juicier and more flavorful roast. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes before carving.
Slicing Rib Roast
Now that your roast is cooked to perfection, it’s time to slice it and enjoy. Here are a few tips to help you get the perfect slices:
1. Start by removing the bones from the roast. This will make it easier to slice.
2. Use a sharp knife to slice the roast against the grain. This will help to prevent it from being tough.
3. Slice the roast thinly for the best flavor and texture.
4. Serve the slices immediately. Prime rib is best when it’s fresh out of the smoker.
Leftover Prime Rib Ideas
If you have any prime rib leftovers, there are endless possibilities for what to do with them. Here are a few ideas:
Roast Beef Sandwich with Horseradish Sauce
This classic sandwich gets a flavorful upgrade with a leftover prime rib roast. Slice the meat thinly and pile it high on your favorite bread, topped with a dollop of horseradish sauce. Add a few pickles or a slice of cheese if you like. Serve cold or grilled.
Beef and Barley Soup
Soup is the perfect way to use up small bits of leftover meat. This hearty beef and barley soup feature plenty of vegetables and a rich beef broth made from the bones of the prime rib roast.
Throw in some diced potatoes, carrots, celery, and peas, and you’ve got a complete meal in one pot.
Beef Stroganoff
The leftover prime rib roast is ideal for this Russian classic. Simply shred or dice the meat and sauté it with mushrooms and onions. Toss with egg noodles and a creamy sour cream sauce, and you’ve got a filling and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Serve over steamed rice or mashed potatoes.
Prime Rib Side Dish Ideas
When it comes to side dishes, we’ve got you covered. Here are a few ideas that pair perfectly with prime rib:
Mashed Potatoes with Roasted Garlic
This classic side dish is the perfect partner for a prime rib roast. For an extra-special twist, we like to roast whole garlic cloves along with the potatoes. The result is a rich and creamy mashed potato dish that’s infused with the sweetness of roasted garlic. Yum!
Parmesan Green Beans
Green beans are always a hit, but they’re even better when they’re covered in a crispy Parmesan coating. This easy recipe can be made in just 30 minutes, so it’s perfect for busy holiday gatherings. Plus, it pairs perfectly with prime rib. Win-win!
Honey-Glazed Carrots
Looking for a way to dress up plain old carrots? Try this delicious honey-glazed version. The sweet glaze pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of prime rib, and the colorful carrots make an attractive addition to your holiday table. Perfection!
Prime Rib Wine Pairing
When it comes to wine pairings, prime rib is best served with full-bodied red wine. This will help to accentuate the flavors of the meat. We give below some examples of wines that we enjoy serving with our smoked prime rib.
Merlot
This medium-bodied red wine has notes of dark fruit and chocolate that make it a natural pairing for prime rib roast. The silky tannins will help to soften the richness of the meat, while the acidity will provide balance and refreshment.
Cabernet Sauvignon
This is another great option for pairing with prime rib roast. Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine with flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate, and cedar. Its bold flavors will stand up well to the richness of the meat, while its acidity will cut through the fat and create a delicious contrast.
Pinot Noir
If you’re looking for a lighter-bodied red wine to pair with your prime rib roast, look no further than pinot noir. This delicate wine has flavors of cherry and spice, making it a perfect match for the savory flavors of the meat. Its moderate acidity will also help to cut through the fat on the steak and provide a refreshing contrast.
Electric Smoker Prime Rib Roast Recipe
This prime rib roast recipe is perfect for a special occasion. The dry rub adds flavor and helps to create a crusty exterior while the electric smoker cooks the meat to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 (5-pound) prime rib roast
- 4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons dry rub seasoning blend
- 1 tablespoon coarsely ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions H3
1. Preheat the electric smoker to 225 degrees F.
2. Rub roast all over with three tablespoons of olive oil. In a small bowl, combine dry rub seasoning, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin. Rub all over the roast.
3. Place roast in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours or until internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F.
4. Remove the roast from the smoker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
5. In a small saucepan, heat red wine and beef broth over medium heat. Stir in 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook for 3-4 minutes or until heated through.
6. Serve roast sliced and drizzled with red wine sauce. Enjoy!
How to make prime rib in electric smoker FAQs
What temperature do you pull a prime rib off the smoker?
We recommend pulling the prime rib off the smoker when it reaches an internal temperature of 145 degrees F. This will result in a roast that is medium-rare.
How long does it take to smoke a 6 pound prime rib at 225?
It will take approximately 5 hours to smoke a 6 pound prime rib at 225 degrees F.
Conclusion
Electric smokers are perfect for cooking prime ribs because they impart a delicious smoky flavor while still keeping the meat juicy and tender.
This guide will show you everything you need to know about how to make prime rib in electric smoker perfectly, from selecting the right cut of meat to adding the finishing touches. So fire up your smoker and get ready to impress your guests with this show-stopping centerpiece!