Oh, let me tell you about these smoked beef short ribs – they’re the kind of dish that makes people sneak seconds when they think no one’s looking! I still remember the first time I tried this recipe at a backyard BBQ years ago. The rich, smoky flavor clinging to those tender ribs had me hooked instantly. What I love most? It’s surprisingly simple to make. Just good meat, a killer spice rub, and patience while the smoker works its magic. Trust me, once you taste that juicy, fall-off-the-bone perfection, you’ll understand why this delicious smoked beef short ribs recipe has become my go-to for special occasions (or, let’s be real, whenever I’m craving something truly spectacular).
Why You’ll Love This Delicious Smoked Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Listen, I get excited just thinking about these ribs, and here’s why you will too:
- That melt-in-your-mouth texture – 6 hours of low-and-slow smoking turns tough ribs into buttery, pull-apart perfection
- Crazy simple prep – Just rub, smoke, and spritz (no fancy techniques needed)
- Flavor bombs in every bite – The smoke kisses the rich beef while that tangy apple cider vinegar spritz keeps things juicy
- Crowd-pleaser magic – These ribs make you look like a pitmaster hero at cookouts (bonus: they smell incredible while cooking)
Seriously, it’s the kind of recipe that’ll have neighbors “accidentally” stopping by when they catch a whiff of that smoky goodness.
Ingredients for Delicious Smoked Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Here’s everything you’ll need to make these mouthwatering ribs – simple stuff that packs a serious flavor punch:
- 4 lbs beef short ribs (look for well-marbled ones – that fat equals flavor)
- 2 tbsp salt (I use coarse kosher, but table salt works too)
- 1 tbsp each: black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar + 1/2 cup water for spritzing (trust me, this keeps them juicy)
That’s it! No fancy ingredients – just good meat and spices that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Equipment You’ll Need
Don’t worry – you don’t need a fancy setup for these ribs! Here’s what I always grab:
- A smoker (I use my trusty Weber, but any type works)
- A spray bottle for that magic apple cider vinegar spritz
- A meat thermometer (non-negotiable for perfect doneness)
- Tongs (for flipping without losing precious bark)
That’s really it – see? Told you this was easy!
How to Prepare Delicious Smoked Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Alright, let’s get these beauties smoking! I promise it’s easier than you think – just follow these steps and you’ll have ribs that’ll make you feel like a backyard BBQ champion.
Step 1: Preheat and Season
First things first – fire up that smoker to a steady 225°F. While it’s heating up, grab a bowl and mix together all those gorgeous spices (salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika). Now here’s my little trick – pat those ribs dry with paper towels first. The rub sticks way better to dry meat! Massage that spice mix into every nook and cranny of the ribs like you’re giving them a spa treatment. Let them sit for about 15 minutes while the smoker comes to temp – this helps the flavors really sink in.
Step 2: Smoke the Ribs
Time to work some magic! Place those seasoned ribs directly on the smoker grates, bone side down. Now mix your apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle – this is your secret weapon against dry ribs. Every hour (set a timer so you don’t forget!), give them a quick spritz. The steam helps keep them juicy while adding subtle tang. Let them smoke undisturbed for about 6 hours – resist the urge to peek too often! You’ll know they’re getting close when that gorgeous dark bark forms and the meat starts pulling back from the bones.
Step 3: Rest and Serve
Here’s where patience pays off big time! When your thermometer hits 203°F in the thickest part (not touching bone), carefully remove the ribs. Now comes the hardest part – letting them rest for 15 minutes under loose foil. I know, I know – you want to dig in immediately! But trust me, this lets the juices redistribute so every bite is perfectly moist. Then? Slice between the bones and watch everyone’s eyes light up when they take that first tender, smoky bite. Pure heaven!
Tips for Perfect Delicious Smoked Beef Short Ribs Recipe
After smoking dozens of racks (okay, maybe hundreds), I’ve picked up some game-changing tricks:
- Wood matters! Oak or hickory give that classic BBQ flavor, while pecan adds a sweeter touch. Avoid mesquite – it overpowers the beef.
- Start checking early – If your smoker runs hot, ribs might be done in 5 hours. The bend test never lies – when they droop slightly when lifted, they’re ready.
- No peeking! Every time you open that smoker, you lose heat and smoke. Only open to spritz or check temp near the end.
- Fat cap up or down? I prefer fat side down – it protects the meat from direct heat while rendering beautifully.
Remember – great ribs are about patience, not perfection. Even “mistakes” taste amazing!
Serving Suggestions
These smoky beauties deserve equally delicious company! My go-to move? Pile them high with creamy coleslaw (that crunch cuts through the richness perfectly) and sweet baked beans (they soak up all that incredible smoky flavor). For a complete feast, add some buttery cornbread and pickled jalapeños – the tangy heat takes every bite to the next level. Trust me, your plate will be empty faster than you can say “seconds please!”
Storage and Reheating
Now, if by some miracle you have leftovers (it happens!), here’s how to keep that smoky goodness going strong. First, let the ribs cool completely, then tuck them into an airtight container – they’ll keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. To reheat, I swear by the oven method: wrap them in foil with a splash of beef broth and warm at 300°F for about 20 minutes. The microwave works in a pinch, but go low and slow to avoid turning them into shoe leather. Pro tip: the smoky flavor actually gets better the next day!
Nutritional Information
Just so you know, these numbers are estimates – your exact nutrition will vary based on rib size and how much fat renders out. For one meaty rib (about 8 oz with bone): roughly 450 calories, 40g protein, and all that glorious beefy goodness. Not diet food, but oh-so-worth-it for special occasions!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different wood for smoking?
Absolutely! While oak and hickory are my go-tos, fruit woods like apple or cherry add a sweeter, milder smoke flavor. Just steer clear of mesquite – it’s way too strong for these delicate beef ribs.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
Two foolproof ways: First, that meat thermometer should read 203°F in the thickest part. Second, give them the “bend test” – when you lift one end with tongs, the ribs should droop slightly but not break apart.
Can I make these in the oven instead?
You can, but you’ll miss that deep smoky flavor. If you must, set your oven to 225°F and add a teaspoon of liquid smoke. They’ll still be tasty, just not quite as magical!
Share Your Experience
I’d love to hear how your ribs turned out! Did you try any fun twists? Tag me in your smoky masterpieces or drop a comment below – nothing makes me happier than seeing folks fall in love with this recipe like I did.
Print
Irresistible 4-Ingredient Delicious Smoked Beef Short Ribs
- Total Time: 6 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A simple and delicious smoked beef short ribs recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
- Mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika in a bowl.
- Rub the spice mix evenly over the beef short ribs.
- Place the ribs in the smoker and cook for 6 hours.
- Mix apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
- Spritz the ribs every hour to keep them moist.
- Remove the ribs when the internal temperature reaches 203°F.
- Let them rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Use hardwood like oak or hickory for best flavor.
- Check the ribs after 5 hours if they cook faster.
- Serve with your favorite barbecue sauce.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Smoking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 1200mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: smoked beef short ribs, barbecue, smoked ribs recipe