Description
Smoked Beef Short Ribs are the ultimate BBQ centerpiece—rich, meaty, and fall-off-the-bone tender. This recipe uses a flavorful dry rub and low-and-slow smoking method to achieve a bold bark and succulent interior. Perfect for backyard gatherings, holiday feasts, or serious pitmasters looking to impress, these ribs are loaded with smoky flavor and unforgettable texture.
Ingredients
For the Ribs and Rub:
4 pounds beef short ribs (English-style preferred)
1/4 cup hot sauce
1/4 cup Dad’s All Purpose rub (or any all-purpose BBQ rub)
2 tbsp steak rub
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp smoked paprika
Optional Custom Rub Additions:
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Smoking Tools & Wood:
Smoker (pellet, offset, charcoal, or gas)
Wood chips or chunks (hickory, oak, or mesquite recommended)
Meat thermometer
Water pan (optional but recommended)
Instructions
Prep Smoker:
Preheat smoker to 250°F (121°C). Add a water pan for moisture and set up indirect heat zones if needed.Prepare the Rub:
In a bowl, mix hot sauce, BBQ rubs, brown sugar, and smoked paprika into a thick paste.Season the Ribs:
Pat ribs dry. Coat evenly with the rub on all sides. Let sit at room temp for 30 minutes.Smoke the Ribs:
Place ribs bone-side down in smoker. Smoke for 4–5 hours, until internal temperature reaches 203°F (95°C). Use hickory or oak for a bold, smoky flavor.Rest the Meat:
Remove ribs and let rest, tented with foil, for 30–45 minutes before slicing.Slice & Serve:
Cut against the grain. Serve with BBQ sauce and your favorite sides.
Notes
Stall tip: Wrap in foil at 160–170°F (Texas Crutch) to push through the stall.
Check for doneness: Use the probe test—it should slide in like soft butter.
Optional glaze: Brush ribs with sauce in the last 20 minutes if desired.
Best served with: coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, mashed potatoes, or grilled vegetables.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoked
- Cuisine: American BBQ
Keywords: smoked short ribs, BBQ beef ribs, pitmaster ribs, pellet smoker recipe, Texas-style ribs, beef rib rub, low and slow ribs, backyard BBQ