Chef John's Perfect Prime Rib Roast

Prepare the necessary components by collecting all required ingredients. Position the prime rib roast on a flat surface and allow it to reach room temperature, typically taking 2 to 4 hours.

Preheat your oven to a high heat setting of 500 degrees F (260 degrees C).

Combine softened butter, freshly ground black pepper, and a blend of aromatic herbs known as herbes de Provence in a bowl; mix until the ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Evenly distribute the butter mixture across the entire surface of the roast. Generously sprinkle kosher salt over the roast to enhance its flavor.

Place the 4-pound prime rib roast in the preheated oven and cook for 20 minutes.

If your roast weighs more or less than 4 pounds, adjust the cooking time by multiplying its exact weight by 5 minutes.

Turn off the oven and, keeping the roast inside with the door closed, allow it to rest in the oven for 2 hours.

Once the roast has finished resting, remove it from the oven and slice it into thin pieces. Serve the prime rib roast immediately.