If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate comfort food that takes minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor, look no further than these Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs. Imagine tender beef that practically melts off the bone, drenched in a sweet, tangy, and smoky sauce that gets better with every bite. This is the kind of dish that turns everyday meals into something extraordinary, perfect for cozy weekends in or when you want to seriously impress your dinner guests.

Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs comes from a short list of carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, whether it’s to season, build depth in the sauce, or guarantee that mouthwatering tenderness. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a helpful tip for each.

Beef short ribs (3–4 pounds, bone-in): Look for well-marbled ribs—fat is your friend here and creates that signature juicy, shreddable texture.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A quick sear in olive oil boosts both flavor and color before slow cooking begins.
Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out the beefy flavors and balancing the sauce.
Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Adds a subtle heat that enhances every bite without overpowering.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a gentle smokiness and beautiful reddish hue to the rub.
Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives a rounded, savory backbone that pairs perfectly with rich beef.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Helps deepen the overall flavor, making the ribs taste more complex and hearty.
Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): Just a pinch for those who love a little kick; totally optional but always welcome.
Barbecue sauce (1 cup, your favorite): Feel free to use classic smoky, sweet, or spicy—choose one that you adore for the best results.
Beef broth (1/2 cup): This keeps the ribs moist and helps tenderize as they cook low and slow.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tablespoon): Adds umami depth and enriches the whole dish with a splash of savory goodness.
Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Punches up the freshness and helps balance the richness of the meat.
Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): A little sweetness goes a long way, caramelizing into that sticky, irresistible glaze.

How to Make Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs

Step 1: Season the Short Ribs

Pat your short ribs dry with paper towels for the best sear, then mix together salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this flavorful blend onto every side of each rib. Don’t be shy here—total coverage means total flavor in every bite.

Step 2: Sear for Maximum Flavor

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches (so you don’t overcrowd), sear the seasoned short ribs for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until beautifully browned. This step is worth every second—the golden crust locks in juices and adds an unbeatable layer of flavor.

Step 3: Make the BBQ Sauce Mixture

While the ribs are searing, whisk together your favorite barbecue sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl. This robust mixture infuses the short ribs with all the savory, sweet, and tangy notes that define Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Nestle the browned ribs into your slow cooker, then pour the BBQ sauce mixture over the top, making sure each rib is well coated. Cover and set your slow cooker to low for 7 to 8 hours (or high for 4 to 5 hours). The low-and-slow magic happens here, transforming the ribs until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender and infused with every bit of that finger-licking sauce.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

Once the timer dings, carefully lift out the ribs (they’ll be super tender) and skim any excess fat from the sauce in the cooker. Want a thicker glaze? Pour the sauce into a saucepan and simmer it for about 5 to 10 minutes until it reduces just a bit. Spoon that luscious sauce over your ribs for the ultimate finish.

How to Serve Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs

Garnishes

A fresh pop of color and flavor always makes these rich ribs shine. Sprinkle chopped parsley or sliced green onions over the top just before serving for a vibrant, restaurant-worthy finish. If you love a little extra zing, a scattering of pickled red onions or a dusting of sesame seeds can make things extra special.

Side Dishes

These ribs pair perfectly with all your barbecue favorites. Creamy mashed potatoes soak up every last bit of sauce, crisp coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, and sweet cornbread can never go wrong alongside Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs. For a lighter touch, roasted vegetables or a simple green salad also work beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn leftovers into pulled rib sandwiches, pile the meat atop baked potatoes, or roll it into wraps with slaw for a fun lunch twist. When serving to guests, arrange the ribs on a platter with extra sauce for dipping, and garnish generously—you’ll get plenty of oohs and aahs at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs store amazingly well! Transfer cooled leftovers (with plenty of sauce) to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they rest, making your next meal even more delicious.

Freezing

If you want to stash away some comfort food for later, these ribs are freezer-friendly. Place the cooled ribs and sauce in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, and your future self will thank you.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat short ribs in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or extra BBQ sauce to keep them juicy. You can also pop them in the oven at 325°F, covered, until warmed through. The microwave works in a pinch—just cover and use medium power to avoid drying them out.

FAQs

Can I make Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavor improves after a day in the fridge. Prepare as usual, cool the ribs and sauce, and store them in the refrigerator. Reheat gently when you’re ready to serve—perfect for entertaining or meal prep.

Do I have to sear the ribs before slow cooking?

Searing isn’t strictly required, but it adds a depth of flavor and helps lock in the juices for that irresistible crust. If you’re short on time, you can skip this step, but trust me—it’s worth the extra few minutes!

What’s the best BBQ sauce to use in this recipe?

The best BBQ sauce is the one you love most! Whether you prefer sweet, smoky, or spicy, use your favorite because it sets the tone for the entire dish. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a spicy barbecue sauce brings wonderful complexity to the Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

When your short ribs are fork-tender and start pulling away from the bone, they’re ready! This usually takes about 7–8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high. If you like a caramelized finish, broil them for 2–3 minutes after slow cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just be mindful of your BBQ sauce and Worcestershire sauce choices—there are plenty of gluten-free options out there. With these tweaks, you can enjoy Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs without worry.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about gathering around the table and serving Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs to friends and family. The irresistible aroma, the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, and the finger-licking sauce make every bite a celebration. Don’t wait for a special occasion—invite some comfort and joy into your kitchen this week and experience this delicious tradition for yourself!

Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 16 reviews

Author: Emma
Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs are a must-try recipe for any barbecue lover. Tender, flavorful beef short ribs are slow-cooked in a savory barbecue sauce until they are fall-off-the-bone delicious. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a weekend get-together.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

3–4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
1 tablespoon olive oil

Seasoning:

1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Sauce:

1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite)
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon brown sugar

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Instructions

Season the Ribs: Pat the short ribs dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne.
Sear the Ribs: Brown the ribs in a skillet and transfer to the slow cooker.
Prepare the Sauce: Mix barbecue sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, and brown sugar; pour over the ribs.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours until tender.
Final Touch: Remove ribs, skim fat from sauce, and simmer sauce if desired. Serve ribs with sauce.