Smoking Beef Ribs on a Traeger Grill
Smoking beef ribs on a Traeger grill is a delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs with a smoky aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a novice griller, smoking beef ribs on a Traeger is a great way to elevate your barbecue game. Follow these simple steps to achieve mouthwatering beef ribs that will have your friends and family coming back for more.
Choosing the Right Beef Ribs
When it comes to smoking beef ribs on a Traeger, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Look for beef ribs with good marbling and a thick layer of meat. Beef back ribs, also known as “dinosaur ribs,” are a popular choice for smoking due to their rich flavor and meaty texture. Make sure to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs to allow the smoke and seasoning to penetrate the meat evenly.
Preparing the Ribs
Before you start smoking the beef ribs, it’s important to prepare them properly. Begin by trimming any excess fat from the ribs, leaving a thin layer to add flavor and moisture during the smoking process. Once trimmed, season the ribs generously with your favorite dry rub or seasoning blend. Popular options include a mix of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, but feel free to get creative with your own blend of spices.
Setting Up Your Traeger Grill
Now that your beef ribs are prepped and seasoned, it’s time to fire up your Traeger grill. Set the temperature to 225°F and allow the grill to preheat with the lid closed for 15-20 minutes. While the grill is heating up, add your choice of hardwood pellets to infuse the ribs with a rich, smoky flavor. Hickory, mesquite, or oak pellets are popular choices for smoking beef ribs, but you can experiment with different wood flavors to find your favorite combination.
Smoking the Beef Ribs
Once the Traeger grill is preheated and the wood pellets are smoking, it’s time to place the beef ribs on the grill. Arrange the ribs bone-side down on the grill grates, ensuring that there is enough space between each rib for the smoke to circulate evenly. Close the lid and let the ribs smoke for 4-5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 203°F. This low and slow cooking method will result in tender, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs that are packed with flavor.
Adding a Flavorful Finish
As the beef ribs near the end of the smoking process, consider adding a flavorful glaze or barbecue sauce to enhance their taste. Brush the ribs with your preferred sauce or glaze and let them cook for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to caramelize. This step will add a delicious finishing touch to your smoked beef ribs, creating a sticky, savory exterior that complements the tender meat.
Serving and Enjoying
Once the beef ribs are fully smoked and glazed, carefully remove them from the Traeger grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in moist and succulent ribs. Slice the ribs between the bones and serve them with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a flavorful meal with your family, smoked beef ribs from a Traeger grill are sure to be a hit.
With these simple steps, you can master the art of smoking beef ribs on a Traeger grill and impress your guests with delicious, tender ribs that are packed with smoky flavor. Experiment with different seasoning blends and wood pellet flavors to customize the taste to your liking, and soon you’ll be known for your mouthwatering smoked beef ribs.
Was this page helpful?
Read Next: How To Smoke Elk Summer Sausage: Cook Times