Ah, the holidays! A time for family, friends, and the irresistible aroma of something delicious wafting through the kitchen. I have this cherished memory of my grandmother preparing a prime rib for our festive gatherings. The way she seasoned that glorious cut of meat, her secret rosemary blend wafting in from the kitchen—it was pure magic. Every bite was tender, flavorful, and simply unforgettable.
Today, I’m excited to share my take on that beloved dish with you—introducing my Rosemary Air Fryer Prime Rib! This recipe takes the classic flavors of my childhood and gives it a fun twist with the convenience of an air fryer. Perfectly cooked and seasoned, this dish is ideal for cozy family dinners or fancy gatherings alike. Trust me, you’re going to fall in love with every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Flavor-packed with fresh rosemary and garlic, giving a cozy aroma.
- Tender, juicy meat with a beautiful crust, thanks to the air fryer magic.
- A budget-friendly option for impressive dinner parties.

Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients for this delightful Rosemary Air Fryer Prime Rib!
- 2-3 pounds prime rib roast
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional, but it adds great depth)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Alright, my friends, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps for a prime rib that’s sure to impress.
- Prep the Meat: Start by letting your prime rib sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook more evenly. Rinse the meat under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, chopped rosemary, olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, onion powder, and dried thyme if you’re using it. This aromatic blend is going to bring so much flavor to your prime rib!
- Season the Roast: Rub the marinade all over the prime rib. Make sure to get into all those nooks and crannies. The more, the merrier! Let it sit for another 10-15 minutes to let all the goodness soak in.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: While your prime rib is soaking up those flavors, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using a larger air fryer, you might need a little more time to preheat.
- Cook It Up: Once your air fryer is hot and ready, place the prime rib in the basket. Cook for about 15 minutes to create that beautiful crust.
- Lower the Temperature: After the first 15 minutes, reduce the air fryer temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue to cook for an additional 40-60 minutes, depending on your desired doneness. You’ll want to check the internal temperature. Aim for around 125°F (51°C) for medium-rare, or 135°F (57°C) for medium.
- Rest It: Once your prime rib reaches your desired doneness, carefully remove it from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for about 15 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the prime rib against the grain and serve up those beautiful pieces on your favorite platter. You did it!

Pro Tips & Variations
Now that you’ve mastered the basics of the Rosemary Air Fryer Prime Rib, here are a few tips and creative variations to spice things up!
- Spice It Up: Want to kick it up a notch? Consider adding crushed red pepper or smoked paprika to the marinade for an extra zing.
- Topping Ideas: After slicing, top your prime rib with a spoonful of horseradish sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate those flavors even more!
- Side Dish Pairings: This prime rib goes splendidly with roasted vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a nice contrast.
Serving Suggestions
Picture this: You’ve just sliced your beautiful roast, and the aroma fills the air as you serve it up with a side of crisp roasted veggies and buttery mashed potatoes. Or, how about piling it onto a crusty piece of bread for the best open-faced sandwich of your dreams? Another great pairing is a glass of full-bodied red wine to truly elevate your meal. Whatever you choose, this Rosemary Air Fryer Prime Rib is bound to make your dining experience cozy and spectacular.

Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to enjoy your prime rib even after the main event:
- Refrigerate: Allow the prime rib to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or store it in an airtight container. It should last about 3-4 days in the fridge.
- Freeze: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the sliced meat. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It should remain good for about 2-3 months.
- Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat slices in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until warmed through. This prevents it from drying out!
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While prime rib is a classic choice, you can use a rack of lamb or even a beef tenderloin for a different take. Just be mindful of cook times as they may vary based on the cut.
What if I don’t have fresh rosemary?
No worries! You can substitute dried rosemary if needed. Just remember that dried herbs are more concentrated, so use about 1 teaspoon instead of 2 tablespoons of the fresh stuff.
Is it necessary to let the meat rest after cooking?
Yes, resting is key! This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat. If you slice it too soon, you’ll end up with dry slices. Trust me on this one!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
For the best flavor and texture, it’s best enjoyed fresh. However, if time is tight, you can prep the marinade and apply it to the meat the day before. Just store it wrapped in the fridge overnight and cook it the next day.
Conclusion
I hope this Rosemary Air Fryer Prime Rib recipe becomes a new favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine. There’s something so special about gathering around a beautifully cooked roast, sharing stories, and making memories with loved ones. I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out! Feel free to drop a comment below and share your experience or any fun variations you tried. Happy cooking!
Print
Incredible Rosemary Air Fryer Prime Rib Recipe to Impress
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Impress guests with this succulent Air Fryer Prime Rib infused with aromatic rosemary Discover tips for the perfect tender juicy roast
Ingredients
Instructions
Notes
A quick and easy Rosemary Air Fryer Prime Rib recipe that’s flavorful, tender, and ideal for festive gatherings and cozy family dinners.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6 servings
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g





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