Air Fryer Prime Rib: Is It Possible?

Cooking prime rib in an air fryer is a great way to get a juicy, tender, and flavorful roast without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a relatively new method that has become a favorite of home cooks. The air fryer cooks the meat evenly and quickly, making it a perfect option for a special occasion or holiday dinner.

The key to cooking prime rib in an air fryer is to sear it first at a high temperature and then lower the temperature to cook it slowly. This helps create a delicious, crispy crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. It's also important to use a meat thermometer to ensure the roast is cooked to your desired doneness.

With just a few simple ingredients and an air fryer, you can achieve a perfectly cooked prime rib that will impress your guests. So, if you're looking for a hassle-free way to cook a delicious roast, give the air fryer method a try!

Choosing the right cut of prime rib for your air fryer

First, it's important to understand the characteristics of prime rib. Prime rib, also known as standing rib roast or prime rib roast, is a high-quality, flavourful, and tender cut of beef from the primal rib section. It can be bone-in, containing up to 7 ribs, or boneless, referred to as a rib-eye roast. For air frying, it is recommended to choose a boneless prime rib joint due to space constraints in the air fryer basket.

When selecting your prime rib, look for a cut with good marbling. Marbling refers to the amount of intramuscular fat within the meat, which contributes to its flavour and juiciness. A well-marbled prime rib will ensure a juicy and tasty result when cooked in the air fryer.

The size of the prime rib is also an important consideration. Air fryers have limited space, so choose a cut that will fit comfortably in your air fryer basket. A 2-3 rib joint, weighing around 3-4 pounds, is often recommended for air frying and will serve 6-8 people. However, keep in mind that the exact size may vary depending on your air fryer model, so it's always a good idea to check the dimensions of your air fryer before purchasing your prime rib.

Lastly, consider the quality of the meat. Prime rib is a premium cut of beef, so look for a reputable butcher or meat supplier who sources high-quality, well-marbled prime rib. This will ensure that your air-fried prime rib is not only cooked to perfection but also tastes exceptional.

In summary, when choosing a prime rib for your air fryer, opt for a boneless joint that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. Look for a well-marbled cut from a reputable supplier, and don't be afraid to ask your butcher for advice on selecting the perfect prime rib for your air fryer feast!

How to season your prime rib

Seasoning a prime rib is a crucial step in the cooking process, as it enhances the flavor of the meat and creates a delightful aroma. Here is a detailed guide on how to season your prime rib before cooking it in an air fryer:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin seasoning, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. For a simple seasoning mix, you will need:

• Prime rib roast (boneless)
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Garlic (fresh or crushed)
• Other seasonings of your choice (such as paprika, rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder)

Step 2: Prepare the Prime Rib

Take the prime rib out of the fridge about 30 minutes before cooking to let it come to room temperature. Pat the meat dry with a paper towel. If using butter, smear it all over the outside of the prime rib. Alternatively, you can brush or drizzle olive oil over the meat, ensuring it is evenly coated.

Step 3: Seasoning

Now it's time to add the seasonings! Sprinkle the prime rib liberally with salt and pepper, making sure to cover all sides. If using fresh garlic, you can add it at this stage. Then, add your choice of additional seasonings. For example, you can use paprika, rosemary, thyme, or garlic powder. Be sure to coat the roast well with the seasonings.

Step 4: Horseradish Crust (Optional)

If you want to create a horseradish crust on your prime rib, add prepared horseradish, spreading it all over the top and sides of the roast. You can also add other ingredients like chives and garlic. This step is optional, but it will give your prime rib a delicious and unique flavor.

Step 5: Final Preparation

Once your prime rib is seasoned to your liking, it's almost ready for the air fryer! If desired, you can use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it's cooked to your desired level of doneness. The ideal temperature for medium-rare prime rib is around 130°F to 135°F. Remember to let the meat rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a tender, juicy final product.

Cooking times and temperatures

Cooking a prime rib in an air fryer is a straightforward process, but there are a few key steps to follow to ensure the perfect result. Firstly, it is important to note that a boneless prime rib is the best option, as a bone-in cut may not fit in the average air fryer. Secondly, always use an instant-read or meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat, as this is the most accurate way to determine doneness.

The cooking time for prime rib in an air fryer will depend on the weight of the roast and the desired degree of doneness. As a general rule, it is recommended to cook prime rib at a higher temperature initially to sear the meat and lock in the juices, and then reduce the temperature to cook it slowly and evenly. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Preheat your air fryer to between 375-400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Prepare the prime rib by patting it dry with paper towels and seasoning it generously with salt, pepper, and other desired spices. You can also rub the meat with butter or olive oil for extra flavour and moisture.
• Place the prime rib in the air fryer basket and cook at the initial high temperature for around 15-20 minutes to sear the outside.
• Reduce the temperature to around 300-315 degrees Fahrenheit. The exact temperature will depend on your desired degree of doneness. For medium-rare prime rib, cook at 315 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Continue cooking the prime rib for around 50-70 minutes, depending on the weight of the roast. A good rule of thumb is to cook it for 20 minutes per pound.
• Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature of the prime rib. For medium-rare, the temperature should be around 130-135 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Once the desired temperature is reached, remove the prime rib from the air fryer and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period is crucial, as it allows the juices to redistribute and the meat to finish cooking.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on your specific air fryer model, so always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines. Additionally, for the best results, it is recommended to let the prime rib come to room temperature before cooking and to use an oil spray, such as olive oil or avocado oil, instead of a pressurized cooking spray.

Resting your prime rib

The ideal resting time for prime rib is around 10 to 30 minutes. During this time, the juices that have been drawn to the center of the meat during cooking will have time to flow back towards the exterior, ensuring your prime rib is juicy and tender.

While the meat rests, you can use this time to prepare any side dishes or sauces to accompany your meal. Some classic side dishes to serve with prime rib include mashed potatoes, garlic mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. For sauces, horseradish sauce, béarnaise, or a rich gravy are all excellent choices.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the prime rib will continue to cook while it rests, so it's crucial to remove it from the air fryer when it's about 5–10 degrees Fahrenheit below your desired final temperature. This will ensure that your meat reaches the perfect temperature while retaining its juiciness and tenderness.

Finally, when it comes to slicing the prime rib, it's best to cut against the grain to ensure tender and juicy pieces. This will help to create a more enjoyable dining experience for you and your guests.

In summary, resting your prime rib is a critical step that should not be skipped. By allowing the meat to rest for 10 to 30 minutes, you'll be rewarded with a flavorful, juicy, and tender dish that your family and friends will surely enjoy.

What to serve with your prime rib

Prime rib is a juicy, tender, and flavourful cut of meat, often reserved for special occasions. It is a versatile dish that can be paired with a variety of side dishes to create a delicious and memorable meal. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic and popular choice to serve with prime rib. You can elevate this dish by adding ingredients such as garlic, feta, cream cheese, butter, chives, thyme, or even truffle butter for an extra indulgent touch. For a unique twist, try V's Fried Mashed Potatoes, where the potatoes are mashed in a hot, buttered skillet to create a crisp crust.

Green Vegetables

Green vegetables provide a fresh and nutritious complement to the rich prime rib. Some options include roasted or air-fried Brussels sprouts, perhaps with cranberries, prosciutto, or balsamic vinegar for added flavour. You could also try garlicky broccoli rabe, green beans, or asparagus.

Potato Variations

If you're looking for alternatives to mashed potatoes, there are plenty of other potato-based sides to choose from. These include scalloped potatoes, twice-baked potatoes, roasted baby potatoes, or potatoes au gratin. For a more elegant presentation, try Muffin Tin Potatoes Gratin, which offers individual servings packed with Parmesan and butter.

Salads

A salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty prime rib. A simple yet tasty option is a spinach salad with sliced strawberries and toasted pine nuts with a fruity balsamic vinaigrette. For a more indulgent choice, consider a Caesar salad with breadcrumbs instead of croutons.

Breads

No meal is complete without some form of bread to soak up all the delicious juices. Homemade rolls, biscuits, or even Yorkshire pudding can be the perfect side to your prime rib.

Other Vegetable Dishes

There are numerous other vegetable sides that can enhance your prime rib experience. These include roasted carrots, parsnips, or holiday-roasted vegetables (a mix of Brussels sprouts and carrots with dried cranberries and pecans). For a cheesy option, try Parmesan Crusted Brussels Sprouts or Air Fryer Green Beans.

With these side dish suggestions, you're well on your way to creating a memorable dining experience centred around your mouthwatering prime rib.

Frequently asked questions