Tender Juicy Beef Ribs (Printable)

Slow-cooked beef short ribs with smoky spices and a tangy glaze create tender, flavorful meat perfect for sharing.

# What You'll Need:

→ Beef

01 - 3.3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs

→ Dry Rub

02 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
03 - 1 tbsp smoked paprika
04 - 2 tsp salt
05 - 1 tsp ground black pepper
06 - 1 tsp garlic powder
07 - 1 tsp onion powder
08 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Barbecue Glaze

09 - 1/2 cup gluten-free barbecue sauce
10 - 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
11 - 1 tbsp honey

# Directions:

01 - Set the oven to 300°F to prepare for slow cooking.
02 - Pat beef ribs dry thoroughly with paper towels.
03 - Combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl.
04 - Rub the spice mixture evenly over all sides of the ribs.
05 - Place ribs on a foil-lined large baking tray and cover tightly with a second piece of foil to seal.
06 - Cook ribs in the oven for 2 hours and 30 minutes until tender and meat begins to pull from the bone.
07 - While ribs roast, whisk together barbecue sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey in a small bowl.
08 - Remove ribs from the oven, discard top foil, and brush the ribs generously with the prepared glaze.
09 - Increase oven temperature to 425°F or preheat a grill. Return ribs uncovered to the oven or grill for 15–20 minutes, basting once more until sticky and caramelized.
10 - Let ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The ribs become unbelievably tender, like meat falling off the bone with little effort, a true crowd-pleaser.
  • The tangy barbecue glaze adds that perfect balance between sweet and smoky, turning this dish into a favorite at every gathering.
02 -
  • Patting the ribs dry before applying the rub is key to getting that flavorful crust without sogginess.
  • Finishing the ribs at high heat or on the grill transforms the glaze into a sticky, irresistible coating that changes the whole experience.
03 -
  • Let your ribs rest uncovered briefly after removing from the oven to let the glaze set up perfectly.
  • Using smoked paprika in the rub really brings a wood-fired flavor without needing a smoker.