Traeger Prime Rib
Craving a holiday centerpiece that brings the wow factor? Nothing says holiday feast like a perfectly smoked Traeger prime rib. With its rich, smoky flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, this centerpiece will have everyone coming back for seconds. Stick around to explore our tips, recipes, and more to make your prime rib roast truly unforgettable this season.
What is prime rib?
Prime rib is one of the finest cuts of beef you can buy. Also known as a standing rib roast, this cut comes from the primal rib section, delivering marbled, tender meat that’s packed with flavor. When smoked low and slow, it transforms into a show-stopping main that’s worthy of any holiday table.
What Grade of Prime Rib to Buy
When it comes to prime rib, not all cuts are equal.
- USDA Prime is the top-tier choice, loaded with rich marbling for unbeatable flavor and tenderness. This grade is heavily marbled with tender, juicy, and flavorful meat which will come in handy when smoking prime rib on the pellet grill.
- Choice offers a slightly leaner, more budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality. It has some marbling and is a great option for grilling and roasting.
- Select is the leanest of the three grades. It has minimal marbling, which can make it less juicy and flavorful.
How to Cook Prime Rib on a Pellet Grill
Prime rib is the king of holiday feasts, and smoking it on a Traeger takes your holiday roast to the next level.
The secret to a perfect smoked prime rib? Smoking it low and slow. It'll deepen the flavor of your rib roast and make the meat melt-in-your mouth tender while getting a flavorful bark. Learn how to master wood-fired prime rib to get a main bursting with epic flavor.
Prime Rib Cooking Time, Tools & Pellets
The best prime rib starts with timing, tools, and top-notch flavor.
BBQ Tools: Internal meat thermometer, sharp carving knife, drip pan, optional cooking twine, and a top-of-the-line pellet smoker.
Ingredients: Olive oil or butter for a rich, golden crust, a flavorful prime rib rub, and aromatics like garlic, rosemary, and thyme.
How Long to Cook Prime Rib: Cook low and slow at 225°F, giving yourself about 35-40 minutes per pound to hit that juicy medium rare (pull at 120°F internal)
Wood Pellets: Prime rib can handle bold, epic flavor, so get wood pellets like hickory or mesquite.
How Much Prime Rib Per Person?
For a feast-worthy prime rib, plan on about 1 pound per adult or ¾ pound if you’re loading up on sides. A whole prime rib roast, also known as the king of cuts, typically runs 6 to 7 bones and weighs between 12 and 16 pounds—perfect for a big holiday crowd.
If you’re going bone-in, figure one rib feeds about two people, adding that extra flavor and wow factor when it hits the table.
Boneless? Go with the 1-pound-per-person rule for easy carving and just as much flavor. With these portions, you’ll be serving up plenty of smoky, juicy goodness to keep everyone satisfied.
Smoked Prime Rib Recipe
There's nothing as impressive as golden brown salt and fat covered skin crackling on a huge cut of prime rib on the Traeger. You'll be tempted to lift that lid and just to gaze into its wonder. Don't do it.
Prep Time: 5 mins.
Cook Time: 3 hrs.
Serves: 8-12
Effort: 2/5
Ingredients -
- One 5 to 7-pound bone prime rib roast, we recommend a pound per person
- Traeger Prime Rib Rub, as needed
Preparations -
- 24 hours before cooking, evenly coat prime rib with Traeger Prime Rib Rub. Wrap with plastic and let sit for 24 hours.
- After 24 hours, set Traeger temperature to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and preheat, with the lid closed for 15 minutes.
- Place the meat fat side up, directly on the grill grate, and cook for 30 minutes. Note: Starting at a higher heat will help to develop a crispy, rendered crust.
- After 30 minutes, reduce the grill temperature to 300 degrees. Continue to cook 3 hours or until cooked to desired internal temperature.
- 120 degrees F for rare
- 130 degrees F for medium-rare
- 140 degrees F for medium
- 150 degrees F for well done
- Remove from the grill and let rest 30 minutes at room temperature before carving.
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Top Prime Rib Recipes
One of the great things about prime rib is there are so many ways to cook it. Try experimenting with rubs, smoking wood, and other preparation techniques. The more recipes you try, the more you’ll love this cut. Here are a few of our favorite recipes.
Buying Prime Rib
You can get bone-in or boneless prime rib, but we recommend having the butcher remove the bones, then tying them back on for cooking. That way, you get the best of both worlds.
If you decide to go with bone-in, take a look at our guide to cooking standing rib roast.
Buying Prime Rib
You can get bone-in or boneless prime rib, but we recommend having the butcher remove the bones, then tying them back on for cooking. That way, you get the best of both worlds.
If you decide to go with bone-in, take a look at our guide to cooking standing rib roast.
What to Serve with Prime Rib
No smoked prime rib feast is complete without epic sides that bring it all together. From creamy garlic mashed potatoes to perfectly charred Brussels sprouts and warm, buttery dinner rolls, the right sides make every bite unforgettable. Dive into our full list for more ideas that’ll elevate your holiday table and keep your guests coming back for seconds.
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