If you’re ready to treat yourself to the ultimate comfort food, slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce will absolutely steal the show at your dinner table. These ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, generously bathed in a sweet, tangy, smoky sauce that clings to every juicy bite. The aroma alone is enough to gather everyone around, forks in hand! Whether you’re planning a weekend feast or simply craving a meaty, satisfying dinner, this recipe is the kind of transformative comfort dish that turns an everyday meal into a special event.

Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce is how a handful of ordinary ingredients become extraordinary together. Each component adds flavor, texture, or that gorgeous sticky glaze, and your kitchen will thank you for it!

Beef short ribs (6, about 300–350 g each): The star of the show—look for ribs with good marbling for extra tenderness and flavor.
Brown sugar (1 tablespoon, for the rub): Adds an irresistible sweetness and helps form a caramelized crust.
Paprika (2 teaspoons): Lends a gentle warmth and lovely color to the rub.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses every bite with savory depth without overpowering the other spices.
Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Balances the seasoning mix and echoes the flavors in the sauce.
Ground cumin (½ teaspoon): Gives the ribs a hint of smoky, earthy complexity.
Mustard powder (¾ teaspoon in rub, and 2 teaspoons in sauce): Brings tang and a bit of sharpness to both the rub and the sauce.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
Ground black pepper (½ teaspoon in rub, 2 teaspoons in sauce): Adds just the right amount of heat and bite.
Garlic cloves, minced (2): Packs the BBQ sauce with rich, fragrant flavor.
Ketchup (1½ cups): Creates the saucy base that’s thick and classic for BBQ.
Apple cider vinegar (½ cup): Adds brightness and balances the sweetness.
Brown sugar (½ cup, for the sauce): Boosts the sticky, caramel notes in the glaze.
Onion powder (2 teaspoons, for the sauce): Doubles down on that savory, layered BBQ taste.
Cayenne pepper (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle kick—adjust up or down to taste.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami depth and a little extra savoriness.
Water (2 cups): Helps everything meld together, keeping the ribs moist as they cook.

How to Make Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Turn on your oven to 160°C (320°F) so it’s ready for your slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce. Low and slow heat is the secret to perfectly tender ribs, so don’t rush this part—let your oven get thoroughly heated while you prep everything else.

Step 2: Make the Spice Rub

In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, mustard powder, salt, and ground black pepper. This rub is the foundation of savory-sweet flavor. Give the mixture a quick sniff—you’ll see why these ribs taste so good!

Step 3: Season the Ribs

Pat your beef short ribs dry with paper towels. This ensures they get a lovely crust and aren’t steaming as they cook. Generously coat each rib with the spice rub, pressing it in so the flavors really cling to the meat. Every crevice matters—don’t be shy!

Step 4: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

In a large baking dish or roasting pan, combine the minced garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, onion powder, mustard powder, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Whisk everything together until you have a glossy, smooth barbecue sauce base that already smells amazing.

Step 5: Nestle the Ribs in the Sauce

Place your spice-rubbed ribs meat-side down into the sauce. Wiggle them a little so they’re mostly submerged—this lets the flavors infuse deeply as they cook. The sauce will help keep the ribs juicy throughout their long, slow roast.

Step 6: Slow Cook, Covered

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil or a snug-fitting lid. Pop the dish into the oven and let the magic happen for 3½ hours. This gentle, steady heat breaks down the meat’s fibers, resulting in the legendary tenderness you want in slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce.

Step 7: Caramelize and Finish

Carefully remove the dish from the oven and uncover it. Flip the ribs so they’re meat-side up, then spoon some sauce over the tops. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 30 minutes. During this time, the sauce thickens and caramelizes over the ribs, creating that classic sticky BBQ glaze.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Once done, let your slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat, so when you serve them, every bite is luscious and full of flavor. Spoon extra sauce over the top for irresistible, finger-licking goodness.

How to Serve Slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce

Garnishes

Top your hot ribs with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a pop of brightness and color. A dash of smoked salt or a quick brush of extra BBQ sauce right before serving can also give your slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce that irresistible, glossy finish.

Side Dishes

When it comes to sides, go classic: fluffy mashed potatoes soak up all that beautiful sauce, a crisp coleslaw provides necessary crunch, and warm cornbread is perfect for sopping up every last drop. Any of these will transform your slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce into a true Southern-inspired feast.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to mix things up, try shredding the rib meat and piling it onto toasted buns for BBQ sliders, or serving the ribs over creamy polenta for a comforting twist. You can even use leftovers to top loaded baked potatoes—get playful and turn your slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce into a crowd-pleasing centerpiece!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store leftover slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The ribs actually taste even richer and deeper in flavor the next day, making them perfect for prepping in advance. Any sauce left is liquid gold—save every drop!

Freezing

If you made a big batch or want to plan ahead, you can freeze portions of ribs and sauce for up to three months. Place cooled ribs in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag, making sure they’re well-coated in sauce to prevent freezer burn. Let them thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce covered in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until hot and tender, adding a splash of water or extra sauce to keep them moist. You can also gently reheat portions in the microwave, but go low and slow so the meat stays succulent and delicious.

FAQs

Can I make slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce in a slow cooker instead of the oven?

Yes! Simply follow the spice rub and sauce steps as written, then nestle the ribs and sauce into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender—just as mouthwatering as the oven method!

Do I need to brown the beef ribs before slow cooking?

For this recipe, there’s no need to brown the ribs first—the long cook time in the sauce delivers plenty of rich flavor and ensures the ribs are beautifully tender. Plus, letting the oven do the work saves you an extra pan.

How do I get a charred or caramelized finish on my ribs?

If you crave that signature char, you can place the finished ribs under the broiler for a minute or two at the end. Keep a close eye on them so the brown sugar in the BBQ sauce doesn’t burn, and prepare for seriously sticky, delicious results!

Can I use pork ribs instead of beef?

Absolutely! Pork ribs work wonderfully with this BBQ sauce and slow cooking technique. Adjust cooking times as needed—pork ribs may become tender a bit faster, so check for doneness after about 3 hours.

What’s the best way to thicken the BBQ sauce?

If you’d like an even thicker sauce, simply simmer it in a small saucepan after removing the ribs, letting it reduce to your desired consistency. Spoon it generously over your slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a show-stopping main dish that’s hearty, saucy, and impossible to resist, you just can’t beat slow cooked beef ribs in BBQ sauce. Give this recipe a try—your family or guests will rave about it, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again. Enjoy every juicy, finger-licking bite!