This beef ribs recipe is the ultimate guide to making tender, juicy, and flavorful ribs right at home. Slow-baked or smoked, these iron-rich ribs are seasoned to the bone with a bold spice rub and finished with a sticky BBQ glaze. Perfect for family dinners or backyard barbecues, this easy beef ribs recipe guarantees fall-off-the-bone goodness every time.
3 lbs meaty beef ribs (grass-fed preferred)
2–4 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt (smoked salt works well)
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons oregano
Few drops liquid smoke (optional)
Favorite BBQ sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)
Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C). Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.
Rinse the beef ribs under cold water, then pat completely dry with paper towels.
Lightly coat the ribs with olive oil. Add a few drops of liquid smoke if using.
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, paprika, and oregano.
Rub the seasoning blend generously over both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat.
Place the ribs in a zip-top bag or covered dish and marinate in the refrigerator for 1–2 hours (overnight for maximum flavor).
Arrange the ribs in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Cover tightly with foil to create a sealed pouch.
Bake on the middle rack for 3½–4 hours, until the ribs are tender and juicy.
Carefully drain off excess fat. Brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Broil on low heat for a few minutes until the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized.
Remove from the oven and let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Meat choice: Grass-fed beef ribs are recommended for richer flavor and higher iron content, but any meaty beef ribs will work.
Seasoning: Adjust salt to taste. Smoked salt can add a deeper BBQ flavor. For spicier ribs, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Marinating: For the best results, marinate the ribs overnight. This allows the flavors to fully penetrate and tenderize the meat.
Cooking time: Every oven is slightly different. Begin checking for tenderness at the 3½ hour mark. The meat should be soft but not completely falling apart.
Storage: Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: For the juiciest results, reheat ribs in a 250°F oven covered with foil and a splash of broth until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can dry the meat.
Serving suggestion: Pair this beef ribs recipe with classic BBQ sides like baked beans, cornbread, or sautéed spinach for an iron-rich complete meal.
Find it online: https://www.cooking-inspired.com/beef-ribs-recipe/