How to grill prime rib on charcoal grill

Disclaimer: There are affiliate links in this post. At no cost to you, I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.

Grilling prime rib on a charcoal grill is a delicious and impressive way to prepare this classic beef roast. Prime rib, also known as standing rib roast, is a flavorful and tender cut of meat that is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings.

Grilling it on a charcoal grill can impart a smoky flavor and create a crusty exterior that contrasts with the juicy and tender interior.

With a few simple techniques, you can grill a mouth-watering prime rib on a charcoal grill that will impress your guests and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Why should you use a charcoal grill for grilling prime rib?

Using a charcoal grill for grilling prime rib can impart a unique smoky flavor to the meat that cannot be achieved with other types of grills. Charcoal grills are also capable of achieving high temperatures, which is important for quickly searing the prime rib to create a crispy, caramelized exterior while keeping the interior moist and tender.

The high heat of the charcoal grill helps to seal in the juices of the prime rib, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful dish. Additionally, grilling prime rib on a charcoal grill can be a fun and engaging experience that allows you to enjoy the outdoors and the company of your friends and family while preparing the meal.

How to grill prime rib on charcoal grill

Grilling prime rib on a charcoal grill can be a bit challenging, but by following these general steps, you can achieve a juicy and flavorful prime rib that is cooked to perfection:

  1. Choose the right cut of meat: Choose a prime or choice-grade prime rib roast with good marbling and a thick layer of fat on top.
  2. Season the meat: Generously season the prime rib with a dry rub or a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other herbs or spices. Let the meat rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
  3. Prepare the charcoal grill: Build a two-zone fire by piling the hot coals on one side of the grill and leaving the other side empty. This allows you to sear the prime rib over direct heat and then finish cooking it over indirect heat.
  4. Sear the prime rib: Place the prime rib over the hot coals and sear it on all sides until a crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side. Use tongs to flip the prime rib, taking care not to pierce the meat and let the juices escape.
  5. Move the prime rib to the cool side of the grill: Once the prime rib is seared, move it to the cool side of the grill and close the lid. Cook the prime rib over indirect heat until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
  6. Monitor the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the prime rib. For medium-rare, cook the prime rib until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
  7. Rest the meat: Once the prime rib is cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier and more tender prime rib.

By following these steps, you can grill a delicious and juicy prime rib on a charcoal grill that will impress your guests and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

How long does it take to grill prime rib on charcoal grill?

The cooking time for grilling prime rib on a charcoal grill can vary depending on the size of the roast, the heat of the grill, and the desired level of doneness. As a general rule, you should allow about 15-20 minutes of cooking time per pound of prime rib, but it’s important to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the meat reaches the desired internal temperature.

Here is a general guide for grilling prime rib on a charcoal grill:

  1. Sear the prime rib over direct heat for about 2-3 minutes per side.
  2. Move the prime rib to the cool side of the grill and continue cooking over indirect heat until it reaches the desired internal temperature.
  3. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. For medium-rare, cook the prime rib until it reaches an internal temperature of 130-135°F. For medium, cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 140-145°F.
  4. Once the meat has reached the desired internal temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Keep in mind that cooking times can vary, so it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Tips for smoking a brisket on charcoal grill

Grilling prime rib on a charcoal grill can be a bit tricky, but by following these tips, you can ensure a successful and delicious meal:

  1. Choose the right cut of meat: Choose a prime or choice-grade prime rib roast with good marbling and a thick layer of fat on top. Avoid leaner cuts, as they can become dry and tough when grilled.
  2. Season the meat generously: Prime rib has a rich and beefy flavor that can stand up to bold seasoning. Use a dry rub or a combination of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and other herbs or spices to flavor the meat.
  3. Let the meat rest at room temperature: Letting the meat rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before grilling allows it to cook more evenly and reduces the risk of overcooking.
  4. Build a two-zone fire: Creating a two-zone fire by piling the hot coals on one side of the grill and leaving the other side empty allows you to sear the prime rib over direct heat and then finish cooking it over indirect heat.
  5. Use a meat thermometer: Use a meat thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the prime rib. This allows you to cook the meat to the desired level of doneness without overcooking it.
  6. Let the meat rest before slicing: Letting the prime rib rest for 10-15 minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier and more tender prime rib.
  7. Experiment with different wood chips: Adding wood chips to the charcoal grill can add a smoky flavor to the prime rib. Experiment with different types of wood, such as hickory or mesquite, to find the flavor that you like best.

By following these tips, you can grill a mouth-watering prime rib on a charcoal grill that will impress your guests and become a new favorite in your recipe collection.

Related Posts

Why Trust Us

You will find what you are looking for at Largo Bar and Grill. From classic to luxury brands, you'll find both. We will help you to select appliances that fit your needs, budget and lifestyle. Whether you want to stop by to learn more — or plan to make a major purchase — we’ll treat you like family and assist you every step of the way. Shop with us today to receive friendly and experienced help along the way.