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Tender, slow-cooked beef short ribs featuring a rich, In the style how to cook beef ribs dark sear and savory glaze. Served in a shallow bowl with natural juices and garnished with a sprinkle of fresh green herbs.

How to Cook Beef Ribs: The Complete Guide (Oven, Smoker & More)

By Nancy
Learn how to cook beef ribs perfectly using oven, smoker, grill, or sous vide. Discover ideal temperatures, cooking times, and pro tips for every cut.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Course main dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 pounds beef ribs short ribs or back ribs
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

1. Prep the Ribs — Build the Foundation

  • Pat the ribs dry. Moisture is the enemy of crust. Mix salt, pepper, paprika, garlic, and brown sugar in a bowl. Rub the mixture generously over every inch
    Three beef short ribs arranged in a white ceramic baking dish, coated in a thick layer of dry rub seasoning and aromatics, prepared for slow roasting or braising.

2. Sear for Depth — Optional but Powerful

  • Heat a heavy pan until it’s screaming hot. Add a touch of oil. Sear the ribs on each side for 2–3 minutes.
    Beef short ribs being seared in a hot black skillet until golden brown, with steam rising and natural juices sizzling, to lock in flavor before the braising process.

3. Slow Cook — Where the Magic Happens

  • Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Place ribs in a baking dish, bone-side down. Pour beef broth and vinegar around them — not over them. Cover tightly with foil.
    Four tender, dark-glazed beef ribs resting in a glass baking dish, showing a caramelized exterior and rich juices after being slow-cooked in the oven.

4. Finish Strong — Caramelize and Intensify

  • Remove foil for the last 20–30 minutes. Brush with sauce if using. Increase temperature to 400°F (200°C) to develop a caramelized crust.
    Cooked beef ribs resting in a glass dish being brushed with a thick, glossy red barbecue glaze from a glass measuring cup

Notes

Nutritional Information

  • Calories: 450–550 kcal
  • Protein: 35–40g
  • Fat: 35g (varies by cut)
  • Iron: 20% daily value
  • Zinc: 45% daily value
  • Vitamin B12: Over 100% daily value
 
Note: The nutritional values provided are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients, quantities, and brands used.
Keyword How to Cook Beef Ribs