Air Fryer Prime Rib: Can You Make It?

Yes, you can make prime rib in an air fryer oven, and it's a great way to get a juicy, tender, and perfectly cooked roast with minimal effort. The air fryer's hot circulating air will give your prime rib a crisp, deep-brown crust, while keeping the inside tender and juicy.

Choosing the right cut of prime rib

Bone-in vs. Boneless

The first decision you need to make is whether to choose a bone-in or boneless prime rib. Prime rib, also known as standing rib roast, usually comes with the bone in and can include up to 7 ribs. However, when cooking in an air fryer, it is recommended to opt for a boneless prime rib joint due to space constraints. A boneless roast will fit more easily into the air fryer basket, making it a better option for this cooking method.

Size and Weight

The size and weight of the prime rib are important factors to consider. Prime rib is typically sold as a 2-3 rib joint, which can serve 6-8 people. However, air fryers have limited space, so it is crucial to choose a cut that will fit comfortably in the basket. If needed, you can trim the roast to ensure it fits properly. Additionally, the weight of the prime rib will impact the cooking time, with larger cuts requiring longer cooking times.

Quality and Marbling

When selecting a prime rib, look for a high-quality cut with good marbling. Marbling refers to the amount of intramuscular fat within the meat, which contributes to its flavour and juiciness. Prime rib is known for its superior flavour and texture, and the right amount of marbling will enhance your dining experience.

Fresh or Frozen

It is generally recommended to use a fresh, thawed prime rib for the best results. While you can cook a frozen prime rib in an air fryer, it may take longer, and there is a risk of the meat drying out. If you opt for a frozen prime rib, be sure to thaw it slowly and safely in the refrigerator before cooking.

Storage and Shelf Life

If you are not cooking the prime rib immediately, proper storage is essential. Wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap or aluminium foil, or store it in an airtight container. Prime rib should be consumed or frozen within 3-4 days of purchase to ensure optimal freshness and safety.

In summary, when choosing a prime rib for your air fryer, opt for a boneless cut that fits comfortably in your air fryer basket. Look for a high-quality, well-marbled piece of meat and store it properly to maintain its freshness. By selecting the right cut and following the cooking instructions, you'll be well on your way to a delicious, tender, and juicy prime rib cooked to perfection in your air fryer.

Preparing the meat before cooking

Firstly, it is important to ensure your meat is at room temperature before cooking. Take the beef joint out of the fridge for around 30 minutes before you plan to start cooking. This will allow the meat to reach room temperature and result in more even cooking.

Next, pat the meat dry with a paper towel. This step will help the seasoning stick to the meat and promote even cooking.

Now it's time to season the meat. Drizzle or brush the meat with olive oil, ensuring a thin and even coating. Then, season the meat liberally with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings, such as garlic powder, paprika, or your favourite steak seasoning blend. Be sure to coat the meat well, as this will enhance the flavour.

If desired, you can also add a crust to your prime rib. One option is to smear butter all over the outside of the meat, which will give it a crispy texture. You can then add additional ingredients such as horseradish, chives, garlic, and Worcestershire sauce.

Finally, if you have time, you can let the seasoned prime rib sit at room temperature for a while before cooking. This will allow the flavours to really absorb into the meat. However, if you are short on time, you can place the meat straight into the air fryer after seasoning.

By following these steps, you will ensure your meat is prepared correctly and ready for cooking in your air fryer oven.

Cooking the prime rib

Firstly, remove the prime rib from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about an hour before cooking. This will help the roast cook more evenly and is an essential step.

Next, prepare the seasoning. In a small bowl, combine butter, olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, horseradish, chives, and any other spices or herbs you wish to include. Mix everything together and set aside.

Pat the prime rib dry using a paper towel. Rub the seasoning mixture onto the prime rib, ensuring it is well coated. You can also make shallow cuts in a diamond pattern on the fat cap of the roast to help the seasoning penetrate the meat.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and set the timer for 10 minutes. Place the prime rib in the air fryer basket and cook for 15 minutes at this high temperature to sear the outside of the meat.

Reduce the temperature to 315°F and continue cooking for another 45-50 minutes. The total cooking time will depend on the size of your prime rib and your desired level of doneness.

Check the internal temperature of the prime rib with an instant-read meat thermometer. For a rare prime rib, aim for an internal temperature of 120°F-125°F. For medium-rare, aim for 130°F-135°F, and for medium, 140°F-145°F.

Once the desired internal temperature is reached, remove the prime rib from the air fryer and let it rest on a cutting board for 10-30 minutes. This resting period is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier and more tender prime rib.

After the resting period, your prime rib is ready to be sliced and served! It is best served rare to medium-rare and goes well with sides such as mashed potatoes, green beans, asparagus, or sautéed mushrooms.

Resting the meat

By letting the meat rest, you allow the juices to be reabsorbed into the cells, so that when you slice the meat, very little juice escapes. This means each bite of the prime rib will be moist and flavourful.

The time required for resting depends on the size of the roast. Small roasts of 3-4 pounds should rest for 30-45 minutes, while medium roasts of 5-7 pounds should rest for 45-60 minutes. Large roasts of 8 pounds or more require the longest resting time of 60-75 minutes.

The internal temperature of the prime rib when removed from the oven will also affect the resting time. The heat trapped within the meat continues to cook it, even after it has been removed from the oven. This is called carryover cooking. To account for this, the prime rib should be removed from the oven when its internal temperature is 5-10 degrees Fahrenheit below the desired final temperature.

The cooking method will also impact the resting time. Roasting prime rib in an oven typically requires a longer resting time compared to grilling over indirect heat. This is because the oven's enclosed environment allows the prime rib to retain heat for a longer period.

The ambient temperature of the resting environment is another factor to consider. If the room is warm, the prime rib will cool down more slowly and require a shorter resting time. Conversely, a cold room will cause the prime rib to cool down more quickly, necessitating a longer resting time.

During the resting process, the prime rib should be loosely covered with aluminium foil to trap the heat and allow the juices to redistribute. After the recommended resting time, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the roast to ensure it has reached the desired internal temperature.

A perfectly rested prime rib will be fork-tender and melt in your mouth, with juices evenly distributed throughout the roast.

Serving suggestions

There are many serving suggestions for prime rib cooked in an air fryer. Here are some ideas:

Side Dishes

• Mashed potatoes
• Green beans
• Asparagus
• Sautéed mushrooms
• Yorkshire puddings
• Roast potatoes
• Garlic bread
• Scalloped potatoes
• Creamed spinach
• Garlic green beans
• Popovers
• Brussels sprouts

Sauces

• Horseradish sauce
• Au jus
• Alfredo sauce
• Jus
• Gravy

Presentation

Garnish the prime rib with fresh rosemary or thyme.

Frequently asked questions