Barbecued Beef Ribs
Juicy, tender beef short ribs coated with a smoky paprika-based rub and slow-cooked in a tangy, sweet barbecue sauce. Perfect for gatherings, this dish offers bold flavors and succulent meat that appeals to barbecue lovers and meat enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine paprika, salt, pepper, and dry mustard to create a dry rub.
- Rub the mixture evenly over the beef short ribs.
- In a saucepan, combine catsup, water, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, instant minced onion, and brown sugar.
- Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the grill or oven to medium heat.
- Place the ribs on the grill or in a baking dish, and cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, basting occasionally with the sauce, until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
- Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, let the dry rub sit on the ribs for at least an hour before cooking. If you don’t have paprika, smoked paprika can add a nice smoky flavor. You can substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for sweetness in the sauce. For a spicier kick, consider adding cayenne pepper to the dry rub.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued beef ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with extra barbecue sauce for dipping. Consider serving with a refreshing cucumber salad or pickles to balance the richness of the meat. For a complete feast, browse more American recipes that complement this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 20-30 minutes, basting with extra sauce to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Beef Ribs contains roughly 421 calories, with 44g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (89% of the Daily Value) and iron (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1294mg per serving (56% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Yes, while beef short ribs are ideal, you can use other cuts like back ribs or even beef brisket. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts may require more or less time to become tender.
What's the best way to tell if the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 195°F for optimal tenderness.
Can I make the barbecue sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the barbecue sauce a day or two ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator, and simply warm it up before using it for basting or serving with the ribs.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).