If you have a craving for something deeply satisfying and packed with rich flavors, then you are going to love this Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe. It’s a beautiful harmony of a fragrant dry rub that seeps into the beef, slow-cooked to tender perfection in the oven, and finished off with a luscious barbecue sauce for that perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and tangy. This dish is a true celebration of traditional American BBQ in the comfort of your own kitchen, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe lies not just in the cooking, but in the simplicity and quality of the ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, creating the mouthwatering aroma and tender meat you can’t resist.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a gentle sweetness and helps develop a caramelized crust on the ribs.
- 1 tablespoon paprika: Brings a smoky depth and beautiful color to the rub.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Lends a savory punch that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides subtle sweetness and enhances overall flavor complexity.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and drawing out moisture to tenderize the ribs.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthy undertone.
- 3 pounds beef short ribs: The star ingredient, rich with marbled fat that becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce: Your favorite brand or homemade recipe to finish the ribs with a glossy, flavorful glaze.
How to Make Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dry Rub
Start by combining the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. This rub is the foundation for amazing flavor. Make sure to mix it well so each spice is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Coat the Ribs
Pat the beef short ribs dry with paper towels for better adhesion, then rub the spice blend all over each piece generously. Don’t be shy; this coating will create that irresistible crust after baking. Once rubbed, cover them tightly and refrigerate for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to really soak into the meat.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare to Bake
When it’s time to cook, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the ribs in a baking dish with a cover to keep the moisture in during the long bake, ensuring the meat becomes incredibly tender without drying out.
Step 4: Slow Bake the Ribs
Bake the covered ribs for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. This slow cooking time tenderizes the meat beautifully, allowing the connective tissues to break down so the beef becomes falling-off-the-bone soft.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish Baking
Remove the lid, brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce, and pop them back in the oven uncovered for another 20 minutes. This final step caramelizes the sauce, adding a luscious sticky layer of flavor that’s pure BBQ heaven.
How to Serve Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or some thinly sliced green onions adds a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the rich ribs. A few pickled jalapeños on the side also brighten the plate with a touch of acidity and mild heat.
Side Dishes
Classic BBQ sides are an excellent match here. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob complement the ribs perfectly, soaking up every bit of sauce. For something lighter, a crisp coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the meat.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve the ribs family-style on a large wooden board layered with parchment paper for easy sharing. Alternatively, plate individual servings with a drizzle of extra BBQ sauce and roasted vegetables for an elevated dinner presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any ribs leftover (though it’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the sauce separate prevents the ribs from getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked ribs by wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place the ribs in a covered baking dish at 300°F (150°C) for about 20–25 minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth under the foil keeps them moist. Finish with a quick brush of BBQ sauce to refresh the glaze.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! This Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe works wonderfully with any barbecue sauce you love, whether sweet, spicy, or smoky. Feel free to experiment to find your perfect match.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. The slow baking time helps achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture that’s signature to great BBQ ribs.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker instead of the oven?
Yes, you can place the rubbed ribs in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours. Then finish under the broiler with barbecue sauce for caramelization. The oven method, however, provides a slightly better crust.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in this Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe are naturally gluten-free, but be sure your barbecue sauce is as well if you need to avoid gluten.
What’s the best way to make the rub ahead of time?
You can mix the dry rub in bulk and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months. This way, you can season ribs quickly anytime BBQ cravings hit!
Final Thoughts
This Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe is truly a celebration of slow-cooked comfort with a zesty BBQ twist that you’ll want to make again and again. The simple rub combined with careful baking unlocks flavors and textures that feel indulgent yet achievable in your own kitchen. Trust me, once you try this, it will become one of your favorite go-to dishes for family dinners, entertaining friends, or whenever you just need a seriously satisfying meal.
Print
Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Oven-baked BBQ beef short ribs seasoned with a flavorful dry rub and slow-cooked until tender, then finished with a delicious barbecue sauce for a classic American BBQ experience.
Ingredients
For the Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Ribs:
- 3 pounds beef short ribs
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the rub: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Season the ribs: Coat the beef short ribs evenly with the dry rub mixture, making sure to cover all surfaces.
- Refrigerate: Cover the ribs tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Preheat oven: When ready, preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Bake the ribs: Place the ribs in a covered baking dish and bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls away easily from the bone.
- Apply barbecue sauce: Remove the cover, brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce, and bake uncovered for an additional 20 minutes to let the sauce caramelize and set.
- Optional finishing: For a more caramelized finish, you may choose to broil or grill the ribs for a few minutes after baking.
Notes
- You can broil or grill the ribs after baking to achieve a caramelized finish.
- Use any favorite barbecue sauce according to your taste preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American BBQ
