Smoky Barbecue Beef Ribs (Oven or Grill)
Juicy, tender beef ribs with a deep smoky flavor and sticky homemade BBQ sauce — fall-off-the-bone good!
🥩 Ingredients
For the ribs:
2–3 lbs beef back ribs or short ribs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for heat)
For the smoky BBQ sauce:
1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon mustard
1/2 teaspoon liquid smoke (optional but recommended)
Salt to taste
🔥 Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Ribs
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
Pat ribs dry and remove the thin membrane from the back (this makes them more tender).
Rub olive oil over ribs.
Mix all dry seasonings and coat ribs generously on both sides.
2️⃣ Slow Cook
Wrap ribs tightly in foil (bone side down).
Place on a baking tray and bake for 2½–3 hours until tender.
3️⃣ Make the BBQ Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all sauce ingredients.
Simmer for 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir occasionally.
4️⃣ Caramelize
Remove ribs from foil and brush generously with BBQ sauce.
Increase oven to 425°F (220°C) or use the broiler.
Cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes until sauce is sticky and slightly charred.
5️⃣ Optional Grill Finish
For extra smoky flavor, finish ribs on a hot grill for 5–8 minutes, basting with more sauce.
🍽 Serving Ideas
Serve with:
Creamy coleslaw
Cornbread
Baked beans
Roasted potatoes
Smoky Barbecue Beef Ribs
