Prime rib is a show-stopping centerpiece for any special occasion, and cooking it on a gas grill adds a wonderful smoky flavor and a beautiful crust that oven roasting alone can’t match. If you’ve been wondering how do you cook prime rib on a gas grill, this friendly guide will walk you through the process, making it approachable and enjoyable-even if you’re new to grilling large cuts of meat.
Why Grill Prime Rib on a Gas Grill?
Grilling prime rib over gas offers several benefits:
– Flavor: The grill imparts a subtle smoky char that enhances the beef’s natural richness.
– Control: Gas grills allow precise temperature control, perfect for the low-and-slow cooking prime rib needs.
– Impressiveness: Serving a grilled prime rib roast is sure to impress guests with its rustic, outdoor-cooked appeal.
What You’ll Need
– A bone-in prime rib roast (about 1 pound per person is a good rule of thumb)
– Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Optional: garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, olive oil for a rub
– A meat thermometer (instant-read recommended)
– A gas grill with at least two burners for indirect cooking
– Aluminum foil for resting
Preparing Your Prime Rib for the Grill
- Bring to room temperature: Remove the roast from the fridge about 1 hour before grilling. This helps it cook evenly.
- Season generously: Rub the roast all over with kosher salt and pepper. For extra flavor, mix minced garlic, chopped rosemary, thyme, and olive oil into a paste and rub it on the meat.
- Dry brine (optional but recommended): For best flavor and juiciness, season the roast and let it rest uncovered in the fridge for 24 hours before grilling. This helps the salt penetrate deeply.
Setting Up Your Gas Grill for Indirect Cooking
Prime rib needs to be cooked low and slow to ensure even doneness:
– Preheat your gas grill to about 250°F to 275°F.
– Turn on only one or two burners to create an indirect heat zone.
– Place a drip pan under the grill grates on the unlit side to catch drippings and prevent flare-ups.
– If your grill has a lid thermometer, monitor the temperature closely.
How to Cook Prime Rib on a Gas Grill
Step 1: Sear the Roast (Optional but Recommended)
– Turn all burners to high.
– Place the roast directly over the flames and sear each side for about 3-5 minutes until a deep brown crust forms.
– This step locks in juices and adds flavor.
Step 2: Slow Roast Indirectly
– Move the roast to the cooler side of the grill (indirect heat).
– Insert a meat thermometer probe into the thickest part of the roast, avoiding the bone.
– Close the lid and cook slowly until the internal temperature reaches your desired doneness:
– Rare: 120-125°F
– Medium-rare: 130-135°F (most recommended for prime rib)
– Medium: 140-145°F
– This can take about 2 to 3 hours depending on roast size and grill temperature.
Step 3: Rest the Meat
– Remove the roast from the grill and tent it loosely with aluminum foil.
– Let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
– The internal temperature will rise about 5-10 degrees during resting.
Tips for Perfect Grilled Prime Rib
– Use a reliable meat thermometer. This is critical to avoid overcooking such a premium cut.
– Don’t rush the cooking. Low and slow is the key to tender, juicy prime rib.
– Consider the bone-in roast. The bone helps regulate heat and adds flavor.
– Let the roast rest before carving. Cutting too soon will cause juices to run out, making the meat dry.
– Experiment with smoke. Adding wood chips to a smoker box on your gas grill can add an extra smoky dimension.
Serving Suggestions
Prime rib pairs beautifully with classic sides like:
– Horseradish sauce or creamy horseradish cream
– Garlic mashed potatoes
– Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts
– A fresh green salad or creamy creamed spinach
Grilling prime rib on a gas grill is an impressive and delicious way to prepare this luxurious cut. With patience, the right technique, and good seasoning, you’ll create a juicy, flavorful roast with a perfect crust that will wow your guests every time. Enjoy the process and the fantastic meal!