If you’re seeking the most succulent, fall-off-the-bone barbecue experience, slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce will absolutely steal the show at your next meal. This recipe transforms humble beef short ribs into something extraordinary: tender meat wrapped in a smoky, tangy-sweet BBQ sauce that’s as irresistible as it is comforting. Nothing brings people together like a platter of these ribs, their rich flavors perfectly infused into every juicy bite. Whether it’s a sunny afternoon or a cozy night in, these slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce guarantee smiles and satisfied appetites.

Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Get ready to gather a handful of simple, essential ingredients – each one pulling its own delicious weight. These pantry staples come together for a truly impressive dish, ensuring every rib is flavorful, sticky, and soul-satisfying.

Beef short ribs: Look for meaty pieces about 300–350 g each for best tenderness and flavor.
Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Adds rich sweetness and helps caramelize the surface beautifully in the oven.
Paprika (2 teaspoons): Gives a gentle, earthy warmth and gorgeous red hue.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Deepens the savoriness of each rib.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Brings mellow, aromatic notes that round out the rub.
Ground cumin (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle smokiness that pairs perfectly with BBQ flavors.
Mustard powder (¾ teaspoon, plus 2 teaspoons): Brightens the rub and the sauce, adding mild heat and tang.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Draws out juices and heightens every flavor.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon, plus 2 teaspoons): Provides spicy warmth both in the rub and the sauce.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses the sauce with unmistakable garlicky punch.
Ketchup (1½ cups): The heart of the BBQ sauce for that classic sweet-tomato base.
Apple cider vinegar (½ cup): Lends sharpness and balances the sweetness.
Brown sugar (½ cup): Sweetens the sauce and helps with caramelization.
Onion powder (2 teaspoons): Doubles down on the savory, aromatic goodness in the sauce.
Cayenne pepper (1 teaspoon): Adds a hint of background heat without overpowering.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings “umami” depth and a savory punch.
Water (2 cups): Helps the sauce simmer down to glossy perfection as it slow cooks.

How to Make Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce

Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 160°C (320°F), so it’s ready to deliver low and slow heat that makes these beef ribs ultra-tender. A gentle cooking temperature is key for that classic, melt-in-your-mouth texture that slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce are famous for.

Step 2: Mix the Perfect Dry Rub

In a bowl, combine your brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, mustard powder, salt, and black pepper. This lively mix of spices forms a powerful dry rub that infuses the ribs with flavor from the inside out. Each ingredient is purposeful, working together to create a deeply savory, crave-worthy crust.

Step 3: Season the Ribs

Pat your beef short ribs dry with kitchen paper—this helps the rub adhere. Sprinkle and massage the dry rub over every surface, making sure no nook or cranny is left untouched. The seasoning forms a barrier that flavors the meat and helps develop a mouthwatering crust as the ribs roast.

Step 4: Build the BBQ Sauce Base

Now for the sauce! In a large baking dish, whisk together minced garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, onion powder, mustard powder, cayenne, Worcestershire sauce, and water. This simple blend transforms in the oven, becoming a sticky, tangy, complex BBQ sauce that’s the signature of these slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce.

Step 5: Nestle Ribs Into the Sauce

Arrange the ribs meat-side down in the sauce, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. This technique bathes every inch of meat in flavor throughout the slow cooking process—it’s the secret to that rich, saucy finish.

Step 6: Cover and Slow Cook

Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid, then slip it into the preheated oven. Bake for 3½ hours, undisturbed, allowing the gentle heat to break down the meat and render it fork-tender. The aroma will fill your kitchen with anticipation!

Step 7: Caramelize and Finish

Remove the cover and carefully flip the ribs meat-side up. Spoon the thickening sauce generously over the tops, then return the uncovered dish to the oven for another 30 minutes. This final blast gives the sauce a glossy, sticky finish and concentrates all those BBQ flavors.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before serving. Resting locks the juices inside, so every bite is as juicy as possible. Spoon extra sauce over the top before digging in, and get ready for applause!

How to Serve Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce

Garnishes

Take your presentation up a notch with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, thinly sliced green onions, or a scattering of crispy fried shallots. These vibrant touches add both color and bright flavor, cutting beautifully through the rich, sticky glazed ribs. If you’re feeling indulgent, a handful of pickled jalapeño slices works wonders for some tangy heat.

Side Dishes

Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce truly shine alongside classic comfort sides. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up all that luscious barbecue sauce, while crunchy coleslaw brings a cool, refreshing contrast. Buttery cornbread or pillowy buns are ideal for sopping up every last drop. For a veggie boost, try serving with grilled corn on the cob or roasted green beans.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleaser, pile the ribs high on a large platter, drizzle with extra sauce, and ring with lemon or lime wedges for a pop of acidity. Individual servings over creamy grits or cheesy polenta turn this into a gourmet dinner. You can even pull the meat from the bones and pile it into sandwiches or sliders with extra sauce and crunchy slaw—great for game days or backyard parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce keep beautifully in the fridge. Place cooled ribs and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, so you might discover your next-day leftovers taste even better—perfect for meal prep or easy entertaining.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled ribs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, making sure to press out excess air. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a lip-smacking meal ready to go whenever a craving strikes.

Reheating

Reheat ribs gently in a covered baking dish at 150°C (300°F) until warmed through, basting with sauce to keep things juicy. For a smoky finish, pop them under the broiler for a couple of minutes at the end to re-caramelize the sauce. You can also microwave individual portions, but add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Absolutely! Prepare the ribs and sauce as written, then cook on low for 7–8 hours. Finish under the broiler to caramelize the sauce for that traditional BBQ texture.

What’s the best way to get that smoky flavor?

If you want extra smokiness, add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to your sauce mix or finish the ribs under a broiler after baking. Using smoked paprika in the rub is another great way to boost those classic barbecue notes.

Can I make slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce in advance?

Definitely! This dish actually improves with time. Cook the ribs as directed, then let them cool and store in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in the oven and serve with plenty of sauce for an unforgettable next-day main.

Are slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce gluten-free?

As long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and double-check your other condiments, this recipe fits perfectly into a gluten-free meal plan. Always check your labels if dietary needs are important for your gathering!

What cut of ribs should I buy?

Look for beef short ribs, ideally with plenty of marbling and meaty sections—the fat ensures incredible tenderness and flavor as they slow cook. Your butcher can help you find the perfect rack for this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re winning over a weekend crowd or simply craving home-cooked comfort, slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce are the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. Don’t be surprised when you’re asked for the recipe—these saucy, meltingly tender ribs have a way of making memories and winning hearts. Give them a try, and get ready for rave reviews at your next meal!

Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce Recipe

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4.8 from 10 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Tender beef short ribs slow-cooked to perfection in a rich and tangy BBQ sauce, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Ribs:

6 beef short ribs (about 300–350 g each)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon ground cumin
¾ teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce:

2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups ketchup
½ cup apple cider vinegar
½ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons black pepper
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons mustard powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 cups water

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
Prepare the Ribs: Mix the dry rub ingredients and coat the beef ribs.
Make the BBQ Sauce: Combine all sauce ingredients in a baking dish.
Cook the Ribs: Bake the ribs covered for 3½ hours, then uncovered for 30 minutes.
Rest and Serve: Let the ribs rest before serving.