The big green egg prime rib recipe is a ceramic grill that acts as a smoker, grill, and oven rolled into one to give you an unparalleled cooking experience. This grill is one of the best options when looking for that perfect prime rib, bringing an excellent balance of flavor, tenderness, and crust. The Big Green Egg is a grill that does an exceptional job of keeping its temperature steady so you can cook the prime rib slowly and serve up one juicy roast with crispy skin.
Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe typically use very few ingredients and let the meat stand on its own. You can season prime rib simply with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme to accentuate the flavors.
This is preparation: when slow-roasting the meat on indirect heat, to ensure it cooks evenly and does not dry out; besides that, since Big Green Egg has its top closed all the time during a roast (and because of their shape), there will be moisture built up in there, but really just some glimpse of smoke flavor from thermally cooked fat entering vegetables too. And that means a prime rib so tender it falls apart in your mouth and manages to wow every guest at your dinner table.

Flavour Profile One of the distinct advantages (and taste perks) of cooking a prime rib on the Big Green Egg is that you can personalize its flavour profile with wood chips or chunks. Flavors from smoking wood such as hickory, cherry, or mesquite. The rich smoke undertones can be infused into the meat by adding this directly to your BBQ smoker.
In addition, if you want to cook this kind of dish, the ability to control temperature is one reason why the Big Green Egg stands out. So, however you like your prime rib cooked, rare, medium-rare, or well-done, this grill does it with heat controls to cook every cut correctly and make that the star of any special occasion show!
Table Of Contents
- Why Cook Prime Rib on a Big Green Egg?
- Key Ingredients for Your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
- How to Prepare Your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe Cooking
- Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Prime Rib on the Big Green Egg
- How to Know When Your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe is Perfectly Cooked
- Resting the Prime Rib: Why It’s Essential
- Carving and Serving the Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
- Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions About Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
- Conclusion: Why the Big Green Egg is the Best Way to Cook Prime Rib
Why Cook Prime Rib on a Big Green Egg?
The biggest advantage of cooking prime rib on a Big Green Egg is the constant temperature and moisture there. Unlike a more conventional grill, the Big Green Egg traps heat and results in an ideal environment for slow-roasting the meat. This means you keep all the juices on the inside, while at the same time allowing for a perfectly crispy and flavor-packed crust to form outside. If you need a roast that is fork-tender, juicy, and full of flavour for your next dinner party or family meal, look no further than using this Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe.
With the Big Green Egg, you can experiment with wood chips such as hickory or cherry to create a subtle smokiness that complements beef. And that puts it at the perfect platform, whether you’re a beginner on your very first grill setup or an experienced master griller.
Key Ingredients for Your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
When preparing your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe, the right ingredients can make all the difference. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements you’ll need to create the perfect prime rib.
What You Need to Make the Perfect Prime Rib
- Bone-In Prime Rib: The bone-in roast is preferred for its richer flavor and juicier texture. The bones help to insulate the meat, resulting in a more tender roast.
- Kosher Salt: A generous rub of kosher salt helps draw out moisture and create a crust that locks in flavor.
- Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Adds a little heat and enhances the natural flavor of the beef.
- Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme are common choices for prime rib. They impart a fragrant, herbal quality that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
- Olive Oil: This acts as a binder for the seasoning and helps create a crispy outer layer.
- Wood Chips (Optional): For a smoky flavor, consider adding wood chips such as hickory, oak, or cherry. Soak them for at least 30 minutes before placing them on the coals.
How to Choose the Best Prime Rib for Your Big Green Egg Recipe
One that is well marbled when choosing a prime rib. The fat also helps keep the meat juicy during cooking. A 6-8 pound prime rib roast is great for feeding a bunch of family or dinner guests. Then the meat also must be a good bright red color, which indicates freshness.

How to Prepare Your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe Cooking
Before you get started with cooking, it’s essential to prepare your Big Green Egg to ensure optimal cooking conditions.
Setting Up the Big Green Egg
Indirect heat works best on the Big Green Egg. Arrange your charcoal on one half of the grill while leaving an empty space for indirect grilling. In this two-zone arrangement, you can cook the prime rib indirectly and gently away from any direct flame. Try to keep the temperature at about 225°F for this style of cooking.
Using Wood Chips for Flavor
But if you want to smoke them, a little bit of wood chips in your big green egg can take the flavor up with what they do. Opt for hickory to impart a bold flavor, or cherry if you’re looking for something smooth and sweet. Let the chips bathe in water for 30 minutes before loading them onto the lads. This will help make sure they smoke slowly and low during the cooking time.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Cook Prime Rib on the Big Green Egg
Now that your Big Green Egg is ready, it’s time to cook the prime rib. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your roast is perfectly cooked.
Step 1: Preparing the Prime Rib
Take the prime rib out of the refrigerator at least 1-2 hours (or more if desired) ahead to let it come up to room temperature before cooking. This slowly helps cook the meat uniformly. Drizzle the olive oil over the prime rib, and rub all over with kosher salt and black pepper. And season fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme). Feel free to punch a few cloves of garlic into the roast for added flavor.

Step 2: Cooking the Prime Rib on the Big Green Egg
Transfer the seasoned prime rib to the cool side of the grill, bone-side down. Shut the lid and allow the Big Green Egg to stabilize at 225°F. For about twenty minutes, a pound, based on the size of the roast, cook time will vary as well, so be sure you have an accurate means of measuring medium-rare for the Internal Temperature Transfer Chart, available here. This slow roasting method keeps the prime rib juicy and tender. Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer. For medium-rare, aim for 130-135°F.

Step 3: Creating the Perfect Crust (Optional)
If you want an extra crispy, caramelized bark on the outside, sprinkle them with a little brown sugar or honey and turn the Big Green Egg up to 500°F during that last 10-15 minutes of cooking. The high heat will set that perfect crust while the inside stays juicy.

How to Know When Your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe is Perfectly Cooked
The key to a perfectly cooked prime rib is monitoring the internal temperature. Here’s how to know when your prime rib is done to your liking.
The Importance of a Meat Thermometer
A meat thermometer is essential for ensuring that your prime rib is cooked to perfection. Here are the internal temperatures to aim for:
- Rare: 120-125°F
- Medium-Rare: 130-135°F
- Medium: 140-145°F
- Well-Done: 150°F and above
How to Check the Texture and Juiciness
You can also check the texture of your prime rib by pressing gently on it. If it gives slightly, it’s medium-rare. If it’s firm to the touch, it’s likely medium or well-done.
Resting the Prime Rib: Why It’s Essential
Once your Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe is cooked to your desired level of doneness, it’s essential to let it rest.
Why Letting the Prime Rib Rest Is Crucial
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful. If you slice the roast immediately, the juices will run out, leaving the meat dry.
How Long Should You Let the Prime Rib Rest?
Let your prime rib rest for 15-20 minutes before carving. This will ensure a juicy, tender roast.
Carving and Serving the Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
How to Carve Prime Rib Like a Pro
To carve the prime rib, cut along the bones, slicing the meat into individual portions. Always carve against the grain to ensure the meat is as tender as possible.
What to Serve with Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
- Sides: Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments.
- Wine Pairings: A rich Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of prime rib.
Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
Adjusting for Different Prime Rib Sizes
When cooking a larger or smaller prime rib, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Use the 20 minutes per pound rule as a guide, but always rely on a meat thermometer for accuracy.
How to Achieve Different Flavor Profiles
Experiment with different herbs and wood chips to create unique flavor profiles. For instance, adding garlic butter towards the end of the cook can provide an extra layer of richness.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- If your roast is cooking too quickly, reduce the temperature of the Big Green Egg.
- If the roast is cooking too slowly, ensure that the coals are evenly distributed and the lid is tightly closed.

Frequently Asked Questions About Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe
Can I Cook a Boneless Prime Rib on the Big Green Egg?
Yes, boneless prime rib can be cooked on the Big Green Egg. However, bone-in prime rib is generally preferred for its richer flavor and better texture.
Can I Use the Big Green Egg for Other Roasts?
Absolutely! The Big Green Egg is perfect for cooking a variety of meats, including pork shoulder, turkey, and brisket.
How Do I Store Leftover Prime Rib?
Store leftover prime rib in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a covered dish in the oven to prevent drying out.
Conclusion: Why the Big Green Egg is the Best Way to Cook Prime Rib
This prime rib recipe on the Big Green Egg is guaranteed to deliver a roast that will be juicy, tender, and delicious. The Big Green Egg, with its ability to retain a constant temperature and moisture, lets you know that your prime rib will be cooked just right every time. If you are a grill master or novice, this cooking technique used to cook prime rib will satisfy.
The next time you’re looking to create a show-stopping dish, try this Big Green Egg Prime Rib Recipe for a roast that’s truly extraordinary!

Big Green Egg Prime Rib
Equipment
- Big Green Egg (or similar ceramic grill)
- Charcoal
- Wood chips (optional: hickory, cherry, oak)
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
- Carving knife
- Cutting board
- Grill gloves
Ingredients
- 1 6-8 pound Bone-in Prime Rib
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for coating
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3-4 sprigs fresh rosemary optional
- 3-4 sprigs fresh thyme optional
- 4 cloves garlic minced (optional)
- Wood chips optional, soaked in water for 30 minutes for added smokiness
Instructions
- Prep the Prime Rib: Remove the prime rib from the fridge 1-2 hours before cooking to bring it to room temperature. This ensures even cooking.
- Season the Prime Rib: Rub the prime rib with olive oil. Then season generously with kosher salt, black pepper, and minced garlic (optional). For added flavor, stuff rosemary and thyme sprigs into the roast or sprinkle them on top.
- Prepare the Big Green Egg: Set up the Big Green Egg for indirect cooking by placing the charcoal on one side and leaving the other side empty. Aim for a steady cooking temperature of 225°F. If using wood chips, soak them in water for 30 minutes and add them to the coals to create a smoky flavor.
- Place the Prime Rib on the Grill: Place the prime rib on the cool side of the grill, bone side down, and close the lid. Cook the prime rib at 225°F for about 20 minutes per pound. Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature.
- Check for Doneness: For medium-rare, the internal temperature should reach 130-135°F. Adjust the cooking time based on your preferred doneness: Rare: 120-125°F. Medium-Rare: 130-135°F. Medium: 140-145°F. Well-Done: 150°F+
- Create the Perfect Crust (Optional): For a crispy exterior, increase the temperature of the Big Green Egg to 500°F in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. This will help create a caramelized, golden-brown crust.
- Rest the Prime Rib: Remove the prime rib from the grill and let it rest for 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy roast.
- Carve and Serve: Slice the prime rib against the grain into individual portions. Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
Notes
- Cooking Time Variations: The 20 minutes per pound rule is a general guideline. Be sure to use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Wood Chips: Wood chips add a smoky flavor but can be optional. Soak them for 30 minutes before using them to prevent them from burning too quickly.
- Resting the Meat: Don’t skip the resting time! It ensures that your prime rib is juicy and tender when sliced.
- Alternative Cuts: You can also use boneless prime rib for a slightly different texture. The cooking method remains the same.
- Leftovers: Leftover prime rib can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the slices in a covered dish to prevent drying out.

Share Your Twist!
We’d love to hear how you make this Big Green Egg prime rib recipe your own! Whether you add unique seasonings, try a different wood for smoking, or have your own secret ingredient – share your twist with us in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to create the perfect prime rib!
An easy, flavorful recipe for cooking a tender and smoky prime rib on the Big Green Egg. Perfect for any special occasion!