Cooking smoked beef ribs in the oven is a convenient way to enjoy this delicious dish without needing a smoker. With just five ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create tender, flavorful ribs.
Making beef ribs in the oven
If you don't have a smoker these beef ribs in the oven work really well. They come out tender with a smoky flavor and are tender and juicy. The ribs cook for a couple of hours, then you broil them for a couple of minutes prior to serving to make sure you get the last bit of fat infused throughout the meat. These ribs pair well with sides like potatoes, rolls, salad, biscuits or rice.
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Ingredients
The best part is the ribs only require 5 ingredients to make. They are so simple and easy! You will need:
- Beef or pork shoulder ribs
- Smoke flavoring
- Paprika
- Thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
Now it's time to get started making your ribs.
- Step 1: Preheat oven, then arrange your ribs in a baking dish.
- Season your ribs.
- Step 3: Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and bake for approximately 2 hours.
- Step 4: Once the ribs have cooked, arrange the ribs on a baking sheet and broil for several minutes.
Substitutions
This recipe is naturally gluten free so no substitutions will need to be made. It is also naturally dairy free as well.
Variations
For a change up, you can use different spices. Feel free to customize the rub with your favorite spices, such as cayenne pepper for heat, cumin for earthiness, or dried herbs for additional flavor.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Place any leftover ribs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and then place them in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Place the ribs on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Reheat for 10-20 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, place the ribs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on medium power for 1-3 minutes, checking for doneness.
Top tip
- Wrap the seasoned ribs tightly in aluminum foil. This will help keep the moisture in and ensure the ribs are tender.
- Broiling at the end helps caramelize the surface, adding a nice crust to the ribs. So don't skip this step!
FAQ
Yes, you can use pork ribs or lamb ribs if you prefer. The cooking time may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone easily. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) to 203°F (95°C) for optimal tenderness.
If the ribs are not as tender as you'd like, you can cover them with foil and continue baking at 275°F (135°C) for another 30-60 minutes.
Related
Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:
5 Ingredient Smoked Beef Ribs in the Oven
Equipment
- baking sheet
- baking dish
- basting brush optional
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork or beef shoulder ribs approximately 8 ribs
- 1-2 teaspoons liquid smoke
- Dry rub:
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Step 2: Prepare the Ribs
- Arrange the ribs in a single layer in an ungreased 9 x 13-inch rimmed baking dish. Baste each side of the rib with a small amount of liquid smoke (a little goes a long way!)
- Step 3: Apply the Dry Rub
- Mix together your dry rub ingredients. Sprinkle the rub evenly over the ribs, making sure to cover all sides.
- Step 4: Bake the Ribs
- Cover the baking dish tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil or a double layer of regular foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 2 hours, or until the ribs are very tender.
- Step 5: Transfer to Broiler
- Using a slotted spatula, carefully transfer the cooked ribs to a broiler-safe, foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet. Arrange the ribs so that the fatty side is facing up or on their sides to expose the fat to the broiler element.
- Step 6: Broil the Ribs
- Switch the oven to broil on high (500°F or 260°C). Set an oven rack approximately 6 inches below the broiler element (not directly below it). Baste the ribs with the pan juices from the baking dish. Broil the ribs for 3-4 minutes, or until the fat is nicely browned.
- Step 7: Final Baste and Serve
- Baste the ribs one more time with the pan juices. Serve the ribs hot and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with these smoked beef ribs in the oven:
Sharon
So delicious and very tender and juicy
Sydney
OMG this was sooo good!