Name: Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 10 min
Cuisine: American BBQ
Ingredients: 2 tbsp brown sugar (or sugar substitute); 1 tbsp paprika; 1 tbsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp pepper; 1/2 tsp chili powder; 3–4 lb beef short ribs; 1 cup BBQ sauce

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If you’re craving a dish that offers tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat paired with a punch of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors, the Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe is exactly what you need to add to your culinary repertoire. This recipe masterfully combines a simple yet deeply flavorful dry rub with slow oven-baking and finishes with a luscious BBQ sauce glaze that caramelizes to perfection. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply want to treat yourself to something special, these ribs bring classic American BBQ right into your oven with ease and unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A woman's hand holds a small, square white plate with black specks, filled with six neat piles of spices arranged in two rows of three. The top row shows a dark rusty red spice on the left, coarse white salt on the right, and a light brown powder next to the salt. The bottom row has two piles of light beige granules on the left, a reddish-brown powder in the center, and black pepper granules on the right. In the blurred background, there are small white bowls with dark and red sauces, a white cup, green chili peppers, and a white plate with raw ribs on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of the Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe lies in its straightforward, no-fuss ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role—some add sweetness, others bring depth and a hint of heat, and together they create a perfectly balanced flavor profile.

2 tbsp brown sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that helps with caramelization and balances the spices.
1 tbsp paprika: Gives a rich color and smoky undertone to the rub.
1 tbsp garlic powder: Infuses savory depth and warmth.
1 tsp onion powder: Highlights the savory notes and rounds out the rub’s flavor.
1 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
1/2 tsp pepper: A touch of heat and sharpness to wake up the palate.
1/2 tsp chili powder: Introduces a mild kick and complexity.
3–4 lb beef short ribs: The star ingredient, rich and tender when cooked low and slow.
1 cup BBQ sauce: Your favorite brand or homemade, to coat and caramelize for that iconic BBQ finish.

How to Make Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe

Step 1: Prep Oven and Combine Dry Rub

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F, setting the stage for slow, gentle cooking that will tenderize these ribs beautifully. While the oven warms up, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a bowl. This flavorful blend is the heart of the Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe, and getting it just right will ensure every bite bursts with a perfect balance of sweet and savory.

Step 2: Rub the Ribs

Generously coat the short ribs on all sides with the dry rub, making sure the mixture adheres well to the meat. This step not only seasons the ribs but helps develop a delightful crust once baked. Don’t rush this part—massaging the rub in thoroughly ensures every layer is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Bake with Foil Covering

Place the rubbed ribs on a baking sheet and cover tightly with aluminum foil. The foil traps moisture, allowing the ribs to steam and become incredibly tender during the 2.5 to 3 hours of baking. This slow heat transformation is what makes the Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe so wonderfully juicy and soft.

Step 4: Glaze and Caramelize

After baking, remove the foil and brush the ribs with a generous layer of your favorite BBQ sauce. Return the ribs to the oven uncovered for about 20 minutes. This final step caramelizes the sauce, giving the ribs a sticky, shiny coating and that beloved BBQ char. If you fancy a slightly crispier edge, using the broiler for the last few minutes will add an irresistible texture.

How to Serve Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe

The image shows a wooden cutting board over a white marbled surface with a full rack of ribs on the left, covered in a thick, shiny, dark red barbecue sauce. To the right, several ribs are separated and stacked, showing the pinkish, juicy meat inside with a crispy, dark brown outer layer. Above the ribs is a small white bowl filled with the same barbecue sauce, next to a wooden brush used for applying the sauce and a single green jalapeño pepper. The whole setup rests on a piece of crinkled parchment paper. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or cilantro over the ribs right before serving. A few thin slices of fresh jalapeño or a scattering of toasted sesame seeds can also add a wonderful contrast, making the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Side Dishes

Traditional sides like creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn on the cob, or classic coleslaw pair beautifully with the rich flavors of the ribs. For those wanting a fresher option, a crisp garden salad or roasted seasonal vegetables provide a refreshing counterpoint that balances the hearty beef.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe on a rustic wooden board surrounded by small bowls of extra BBQ sauce and pickled vegetables. For a fun twist, shred some of the meat and use it in sliders or tacos topped with fresh slaw and avocado slices—BBQ night just got even better!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, they will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 4 days, perfect for quick meals during a busy week.

Freezing

If you want to keep your delicious BBQ ribs longer, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing the rich flavors and tender texture.

Reheating

Reheat ribs gently in the oven at 275°F, wrapped in foil to maintain moisture, for about 20–30 minutes until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave if possible, as slow reheating helps keep the meat tender and juicy, just like the original Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe experience.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili powder to the dry rub will give your ribs a delicious spicy kick without overpowering the other flavors.

Is it necessary to cover the ribs with foil during baking?

Yes, covering the ribs with foil traps steam, ensuring the ribs cook slowly and become tender. Skipping this step could dry out the meat or make it tougher.

Can I use a grill instead of the oven?

You can, but this recipe is designed for oven baking to achieve consistent low-and-slow cooking. On a grill, you would need indirect heat and careful temperature control for several hours to get similar results.

What type of BBQ sauce works best?

Any BBQ sauce you love will work! Whether it’s a tangy vinegar-based sauce, a sweet molasses type, or a smoky chipotle blend, the sauce’s flavor will meld beautifully with the rub and ribs.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs are done when they are fork-tender and the meat has shrunk back from the bones slightly. They should feel soft and almost fall apart when gently pulled with a fork after baking.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe is like inviting warm, welcoming BBQ comfort into your kitchen. It’s a straightforward recipe that delivers big on flavor, perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Once you taste those tender, saucy ribs, you’ll find yourself reaching for the recipe again and again. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Beef Short Rib Rub and Baked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need