Go Back
Pellet smoker beef ribs stacked with thick bark and saucy layers
Elle

Pellet Smoker Ribs

Pellet smoker ribs made with beef deliver unbeatable flavor and tenderness. This easy pellet grill recipe produces fall-off-the-bone ribs with a rich smoky crust and bold BBQ flavor, making it the ultimate guide for outdoor cooking lovers.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours
Total Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Course: Meat Recipes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 685
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 racks beef short ribs or back ribs
  • 1/4 cup avocado oil or mustard binder
  • 1 cup dry rub salt, paprika, garlic, pepper, brown sugar
  • 2 cups beef broth or apple juice
  • 1/2 cup BBQ sauce optional for finishing
  • Heavy-duty foil for wrapping
  • Spray bottle filled with apple juice or broth
  • Wood pellets oak, hickory, or cherry
  • Tongs and a meat thermometer for handling and monitoring

Method
 

  1. Preheat pellet smoker to 250°F and choose wood pellets for bold or sweet flavor.
  2. Remove membrane from the back of beef ribs using a paper towel for grip.
  3. Trim excess fat from the surface to help create a uniform bark.
  4. Coat ribs with avocado oil or mustard and apply dry rub evenly on all sides.
  5. Let ribs rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before placing on the smoker.
  6. Smoke ribs unwrapped for 3 hours, spritzing every 60 minutes with broth or juice.
  7. Wrap ribs tightly in foil with 1/2 cup of beef broth and place back in the smoker.
  8. Cook wrapped ribs for 2 more hours to tenderize and retain moisture.
  9. Unwrap, brush with BBQ sauce, and return to smoker for 1 hour to caramelize.
  10. Remove pellet smoker ribs and rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute beef broth with bone broth for added flavor.
  • Use cherry wood pellets if you prefer a milder smoke profile.
  • Store leftovers in foil and reheat gently at 300°F for best texture.
  • Beef back ribs work well if you prefer leaner results than short ribs.
  • Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain consistent smoker temperature.