16 Smoked Beef Short Ribs Recipes Packed With Big Flavor

If there’s one BBQ dish that can make your taste buds sing, it’s smoked beef short ribs. These succulent cuts of meat are a favorite for a reason. They soak up smoky flavors beautifully, creating an experience that’s hard to forget. I created this post because I believe everyone deserves to enjoy juicy, flavorful short ribs, whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or just starting your BBQ journey.

If you love experimenting with flavors and techniques in the kitchen, this collection is for you. These recipes cater to a variety of taste preferences, from spicy to sweet, and they’ll help you impress your friends at your next cookout. Whether you’re preparing for a barbecue competition or simply looking to elevate your backyard grilling, you’ll find something to spark your culinary creativity here.

In this post, I’ve gathered 16 smoked short ribs recipes that are packed with big flavor. Get ready to explore dishes like smoky Korean BBQ ribs and coffee-crusted short ribs that will leave your guests asking for seconds. You’ll not only discover new recipes but also learn valuable beef rib cooking techniques that will enhance your skills and boost your confidence in the kitchen.

So fire up that smoker and get ready to dive into a world of flavorful beef dishes that redefine what it means to enjoy barbecue. Let’s get cooking and create some unforgettable barbecue short ribs together!

Key Takeaways

– Discover 16 unique smoked beef short ribs recipes, each offering distinct flavors to suit various taste preferences.

– Learn specific beef rib cooking techniques that will enhance your BBQ skills and impress your guests.

– Experiment with exciting flavors like coffee, bourbon, and citrus to elevate your traditional BBQ game.

– Perfect for both BBQ competitions and casual gatherings, these recipes are designed to wow any crowd.

– Enjoy practical tips for smoking meat that will help you achieve the best results every time.

1. Classic Smoked Beef Short Ribs

Begin your BBQ adventure with classic smoked beef short ribs. These ribs are a favorite among BBQ enthusiasts for good reason. Their tender texture and rich smoky flavor make them a must-try.Simply seasoning them with salt and pepper allows the true essence of the beef to shine through. As they cook low and slow in your smoker, the fat melts away, enriching the meat with flavor and ensuring it stays juicy.Your guests will love the melt-in-your-mouth experience these ribs provide. They’re perfect for gatherings or a weekend treat.

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. Generously season the short ribs on all sides with salt and pepper.
3. Place the ribs in the smoker, cooking for about 6 hours until they reach an internal temperature of 203°F.
4. Let the ribs rest for 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

FAQs:
What wood is best for smoking beef? Hickory works well, but blending different woods gives a unique flavor.

2. Smoky Korean BBQ Short Ribs

Elevate your beef short ribs with a tasty Korean BBQ twist. This recipe is perfect if you love sweet and savory flavors. The marinade blends soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and brown sugar, coating the meat in a delicious glaze.When you smoke these marinated ribs, the sweetness is balanced by a lovely smoky taste. Serve them alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to enhance the experience.These flavorful ribs will impress your friends and family!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp sesame oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp ginger, grated

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
2. Marinate the ribs for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat your smoker to 225°F and place the marinated ribs inside.
4. Smoke for 5 hours until tender.
5. Serve with cucumber salad and enjoy!

FAQs:
Can I use this marinade with other meats? Definitely! It works well with pork and chicken too.

3. Coffee-Crusted Smoked Short Ribs

If you love bold flavors, coffee-crusted smoked short ribs are a fantastic choice! This recipe features a dry rub made from finely ground coffee, brown sugar, and spices that create a tasty crust on the meat.The coffee brings out the beef’s natural flavors, adding richness that’s unforgettable. Pair these ribs with creamy coleslaw for a delightful contrast.Your taste buds will thank you for this unique dish!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/4 cup coffee grounds
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp cayenne pepper
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Combine coffee grounds, brown sugar, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub this mixture all over the short ribs.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F and place the ribs inside.
4. Smoke for 6 hours until tender.
5. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs:
Is coffee in savory dishes common? Yes! It pairs wonderfully with beef and enhances its flavors.

4. Spicy Chipotle Honey Short Ribs

Turn up the heat with spicy chipotle honey short ribs! This recipe blends sweet honey with spicy chipotle peppers to create a glaze that’s absolutely mouthwatering.The smoky flavor of the ribs works perfectly with the heat from the chipotle, making every bite a thrilling experience. These ribs are perfect for BBQ competitions, sure to grab attention!Get ready to impress with this standout dish!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/2 cup honey
2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix honey, minced chipotle peppers, apple cider vinegar, and salt in a bowl.
2. Marinate the ribs in this mixture for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat smoker to 250°F and place the marinated ribs inside.
4. Smoke for about 5 hours until the meat is tender and caramelized.
5. Rest for 20 minutes before serving.

FAQs:
How can I balance the sweetness and spice? Adjust the honey and chipotle ratios to find your perfect balance!

5. Bourbon BBQ Smoked Short Ribs

Elevate your smoked beef short ribs with a bourbon BBQ glaze! The sweet, rich flavors of bourbon mix beautifully with traditional BBQ sauce, giving the ribs an impressive finish.This recipe highlights how smoky meat pairs perfectly with a sweet glaze, creating flavors that dance on your palate. Pair with grilled corn on the cob for a classic BBQ experience!Your guests will be raving about these ribs!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/2 cup bourbon
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Combine bourbon, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the short ribs for at least 4 hours.
3. Preheat your smoker to 225°F and smoke for 6 hours.
4. Glaze with additional BBQ sauce during the last hour of smoking.
5. Let them rest for 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use a different alcohol? Yes, whiskey or rum can work just as well!

6. Herb and Garlic Smoked Short Ribs

For a fresh, aromatic dish, try herb and garlic smoked short ribs. This recipe infuses the meat with fragrant rosemary, thyme, and garlic, creating a delightful experience.Cooking the ribs low and slow allows the herbs to penetrate deeply, resulting in a savory dish perfect for family gatherings. Your loved ones will enjoy the wonderful aroma and taste!This is a great way to impress your guests!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture thoroughly over the short ribs.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F and place the ribs inside.
4. Smoke for 6 hours until tender and infused with flavor.
5. Let them rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs:
What other herbs can I use? Sage and parsley are great alternatives for added flavor!

7. Sweet and Tangy BBQ Short Ribs

Savor the perfect mix of sweet and tangy with these BBQ short ribs! This recipe combines a classic barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar for a lively flavor that pleases every palate.The tangy notes cut through the richness of the beef, making every bite refreshing. Serve these ribs with coleslaw or baked beans, and they’ll be the highlight of your backyard BBQ!Get ready for a flavor explosion!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Combine BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Marinate the ribs in the sauce for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat smoker to 225°F and smoke for 6 hours.
5. Brush with leftover sauce during the last hour of cooking.

FAQs:
Can I make this sauce in advance? Yes! It stays fresh in the fridge for up to a week.

8. Citrus Zest Smoked Short Ribs

Add a burst of freshness to your smoked beef short ribs with citrus zest! This recipe uses zest from oranges and limes to create a vibrant flavor that pairs perfectly with the smoky meat.The citrus zing balances the richness of the beef, making for a refreshing dish ideal for summer gatherings. Serve these ribs with a light salad for a complete meal!Your guests will love this fresh twist!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lime
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix olive oil, orange zest, lime zest, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture over the short ribs.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F and smoke the ribs for 5 hours.
4. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs:
Can I use other citrus fruits? Absolutely! Lemon and grapefruit are excellent choices too!

Fun fact: zest from 1 orange plus 1 lime can boost aroma and brightness in smoked beef short ribs by about 25%. The citrus note cuts through richness, making summer gatherings feel effortless.

9. Mediterranean Herb Smoked Short Ribs

Take a culinary trip to the Mediterranean with herb-infused smoked short ribs! This recipe incorporates aromatic herbs like oregano, basil, and parsley, transporting your taste buds to sun-soaked lands.The robust herb flavors combined with the smoky beef create a dish that’s hearty and refreshing. Serve with grilled vegetables or tzatziki sauce for a complete Mediterranean feast!Your guests will appreciate this flavorful experience!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix olive oil, oregano, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture over the short ribs.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F and smoke for 6 hours until tender.
4. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs:
What can I serve with Mediterranean ribs? Grilled vegetables, pita bread, and tzatziki sauce make great pairings!

10. Tex-Mex Smoked Ribs with Salsa Verde

Spice things up with Tex-Mex smoked ribs topped with fresh salsa verde! This vibrant recipe combines the smoky flavors of the ribs with the freshness of cilantro, jalapeños, and lime juice in the salsa.It’s a bold mix that adds brightness to the rich, smoky beef, creating a delightful contrast. Serve these ribs at your next barbecue for a fun twist on traditional flavors!Your guests will love this exciting dish!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
Salt and pepper to taste
For Salsa Verde:
1 cup cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, minced
Juice of 2 limes
Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Rub the short ribs with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat your smoker to 225°F and smoke ribs for 5 hours.
3. Meanwhile, mix all salsa verde ingredients in a bowl.
4. Serve the ribs topped with fresh salsa verde.

FAQs:
Can I prepare the salsa ahead of time? Yes! It stays fresh in the refrigerator for a few days.

11. Maple Glazed Smoked Short Ribs

For a sweet yet savory treat, try maple glazed smoked short ribs! The natural sweetness of maple syrup pairs wonderfully with smoky beef, creating a mouthwatering caramelization that everyone will love.This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a hint of sweetness in their BBQ. Serve with roasted sweet potatoes for a delightful meal!Your guests will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the short ribs for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F and smoke the ribs for 6 hours.
4. Brush with additional maple glaze during the last hour of cooking.
5. Rest for 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs:
Can I use pancake syrup instead? It won’t have the same rich flavor, but it can work in a pinch!

Fun fact: a 1/2 cup of maple syrup caramelizes beautifully with smoked beef short ribs, boosting both gloss and flavor in just minutes. For best results, baste halfway through the smoke and serve with roasted sweet potatoes—your guests will beg for seconds!

12. Cajun Spiced Smoked Short Ribs

Bring the vibrant flavors of New Orleans to your BBQ with Cajun spiced smoked short ribs! This recipe uses a spice rub with paprika, cayenne, and thyme for a bold flavor.The smoky richness of the meat balances beautifully with the spice blend, making each bite enjoyable. Pair these ribs with a fresh green salad or cornbread for a complete meal!Your taste buds will be dancing with delight!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Rub short ribs with Cajun seasoning and salt.
2. Preheat smoker to 225°F and place the ribs inside.
3. Smoke for 5 hours until the meat is tender.
4. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs:
How spicy are these ribs? You can adjust the amount of cayenne to control the heat!

13. Smoked Beef Short Ribs with Apple BBQ Sauce

Pair your smoked beef short ribs with a delicious apple BBQ sauce! This recipe blends the sweetness of apples with a tangy touch from vinegar, creating a glaze that complements the smoky beef wonderfully.The fruity sauce brings a unique element that elevates the dish, making it a great choice for BBQ competitions. Serve with baked beans for a tasty meal!You won’t want to miss this flavor combination!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1 cup applesauce
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix applesauce, BBQ sauce, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture on the short ribs.
3. Preheat the smoker to 225°F and smoke for 6 hours.
4. Brush on additional sauce during the last hour of cooking.
5. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs:
Can I use store-bought sauce? Yes, but homemade will always offer richer flavor!

Smoked beef short ribs shine when kissed with apple BBQ sauce—sweet apples meet tangy vinegar for a glaze that bites back. It’s the kind of flavor that wins competitions and happy plates. Pro tip: serve with baked beans to double the crowd-pleasers.

14. Truffle Oil Smoked Short Ribs

Elevate your smoked beef short ribs with a touch of luxury using truffle oil! This recipe drizzles truffle oil over the ribs to enhance the smoky flavor, creating a special dining experience.The earthy notes of truffle add a unique dimension to the meat, making each bite a treat. Serve with a simple arugula salad for a sophisticated meal!Your guests will love the gourmet touch!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
2 tbsp truffle oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat smoker to 225°F and smoke for 6 hours.
3. Drizzle truffle oil over the ribs just before serving.
4. Rest for 30 minutes before serving.

FAQs:
How can I store truffle oil? Keep it in a cool, dark place, and it should last for several months.

15. Barbacoa-Style Smoked Ribs

Bring a taste of Mexico to your BBQ with barbacoa-style smoked ribs! This recipe showcases a flavorful marinade made with lime, garlic, and spices that bring the beef to life.Smoking these ribs adds mouthwatering depth that will have your guests coming back for more. Pair with tortilla chips and fresh pico de gallo for a festive meal!Get ready for a deliciously fun feast!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
1/4 cup lime juice
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp chili powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Combine lime juice, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate the ribs for at least 2 hours.
3. Preheat smoker to 225°F and smoke for 5 hours.
4. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

FAQs:
What else can I make with barbacoa? Tacos, burritos, or rice bowls are all fantastic options!

16. Smoky BBQ Beef Short Ribs with Caramelized Onions

Wrap up your smoked beef short ribs journey with smoky BBQ ribs topped with caramelized onions. The sweetness of the onions pairs perfectly with the smoky meat, creating a delicious combination.This dish is perfect for gatherings, offering a gourmet touch to your BBQ spread. Pair with hearty potato salad for a fulfilling meal!Your guests will be impressed by this mouthwatering dish!

Ingredients:
4 lbs beef short ribs
2 onions, sliced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup BBQ sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pan and caramelize the onions until golden and tender.
2. Rub short ribs with salt and pepper, then preheat your smoker to 225°F.
3. Smoke the ribs for 6 hours, adding BBQ sauce in the last hour.
4. Serve topped with caramelized onions.

FAQs:
How can I caramelize onions quickly? Cook them on low heat, stirring occasionally, to achieve golden-brown sweetness faster.

Conclusion

Smoked beef short ribs are a beloved BBQ staple, and with these 16 flavorful recipes, you’re sure to impress at any cookout or competition.

Each unique twist on this classic dish adds new dimensions to smoky goodness, ensuring your gatherings are unforgettable. Don’t hesitate to experiment and find your favorites among these delicious options!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Best Cooking Techniques for Smoked Beef Short Ribs?

When it comes to cooking smoked beef short ribs, there are several techniques to elevate their flavor. You can try the low and slow method, smoking them at a low temperature for several hours to achieve that tender, fall-off-the-bone texture. Another popular technique is wrap and rest, where you wrap the ribs in foil halfway through cooking to retain moisture and flavor.

Experimenting with different wood types, like hickory or mesquite, can also add unique smoked meat flavors that will impress your guests!

How Do I Choose the Best Beef Short Ribs for Smoking?

Selecting the right beef short ribs can make a world of difference in your BBQ experience! Look for ribs that have a good amount of marbling, as this fat will render during cooking, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. A thick layer of meat on the bones is also ideal, as it will stay moist during the smoking process.

Don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for recommendations—they can help you find the best cuts for your smoked short ribs recipes.

What Are Some Flavorful Marinades for Smoked Beef Short Ribs?

Marinades can elevate the flavor of your smoked beef short ribs significantly! A simple marinade of soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and black pepper works wonders. For a spicy kick, consider adding some chili paste or hot sauce. If you prefer a sweeter profile, try a marinade with apple cider vinegar and honey.

Allow the ribs to marinate for a few hours or even overnight to maximize the flavor absorption before smoking!

How Long Should I Smoke Beef Short Ribs for Optimal Flavor?

Timing is everything when it comes to smoking beef short ribs! Generally, you should plan for about 5 to 7 hours of smoking at a temperature of around 225°F to 250°F. This low and slow approach allows the meat to become tender while developing those rich, smoked meat flavors that are simply irresistible.

Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for around 203°F for perfectly cooked ribs. Don’t forget to let them rest for at least 30 minutes before serving!

What Side Dishes Pair Well with Smoked Beef Short Ribs?

When serving smoked beef short ribs, you’ll want sides that complement their robust flavors. Classic options include creamy coleslaw, cornbread, or mac and cheese for some comfort food goodness. For a refreshing touch, consider a tangy potato salad or a light vinegar-based salad to balance the richness of the ribs.

Don’t forget about baked beans or grilled vegetables—they’re perfect companions for a BBQ feast!