How Long To Cook Beef Ribs On Pellet Grill? Creative Methods

Cooking beef ribs on a pellet grill may seem intimidating, but it’s not as hard as you may think! With the right technique and some patience, you can enjoy delicious tender ribs with incredible flavor. In this post, we’re going to break down all the steps for how long to cook beef ribs on pellet grill – from prepping your ingredients and marinades, to tips and tricks for getting that melt-in-your-mouth texture. So pull up a chair around your pellet grill and get comfortable – cooking these delicious morsels of meat is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Types Of Beef Ribs

Before we dive into the cooking process, it’s important to understand that there are different types of beef ribs that require different cooking methods. The most common types of beef ribs are:

• Plate Short Ribs: These are short, wide ribs that come from the lower portion of the ribcage. They have a lot of meat on them and are perfect for slow-cooking methods like smoking or braising.
• Chuck Short Ribs: These ribs are longer and thinner than plate short ribs, coming from the chuck area of the cow. They have less meat on them but can still be cooked using similar methods.
• Back Ribs: These are the ribs that come from the upper portion of the ribcage and are attached to the backbone. They have less meat but are typically more tender than other types of beef ribs.
• English Cut Ribs: These ribs are cut from the back ribs and have had the rib tips removed. They are typically meatier than traditional back ribs and can be cooked using various methods.
• Flanken Cut Ribs: This cut is popular in Korean cuisine and involves cutting the rib meat thinly across the bones. These ribs are perfect for grilling or broiling.

Difference Between Beef Short Ribs And Beef Back Ribs

Short ribs and back ribs differ in size, shape, and meat content. Short ribs, which originate from the tougher chuck primal, are shorter, flatter, and have less meat. To achieve the desired tenderness when cooking beef ribs on a pellet grill, follow the recommended cooking instructions for beef ribs. On the other hand, back ribs come from the more tender rib section and are longer in shape with more meat. They can be cooked using similar methods as short ribs but may require less cooking time and can be more tender.

How To Prepare Beef Ribs?

Now that you have a better understanding of the types of beef ribs, it’s time to prepare them for cooking. Here are some tips for prepping your beef ribs before they hit the pellet grill:

• Trim excess fat: It’s important to trim off any large pieces of visible fat from your beef ribs. This will prevent flare-ups on the grill and ensure more even cooking.
• Remove membrane: Some beef ribs may have a thin, silver membrane on the underside. This can make the ribs tough and prevent flavor from penetrating. Use a knife or paper towel to grip and remove the membrane before cooking.
• Marinate for flavor: Beef ribs benefit from being marinated in a flavorful rub or marinade for at least 3 hours to overnight before cooking. This will help tenderize the meat and infuse it with delicious flavors.
• Bring to room temperature: To ensure even cooking, take your beef ribs out of the refrigerator 30 minutes before grilling to allow them to come to room temperature.

How To Cook Beef Ribs On Pellet Grill?

Now, let’s get to the main question: how long to cook beef ribs on pellet grill? The key is low and slow cooking – this allows the meat to become tender and flavorful without burning. Here are the steps for cooking beef ribs on a pellet grill:

1. Preheat your pellet grill to 225-250°F.
2. Place your beef ribs on the grill and cook for 2-3 hours, depending on the type of ribs and their thickness. Using a meat thermometer, check that the internal temperature reaches at least 190°F.
3. Wrap in foil: After a few hours of cooking, wrap your beef ribs in aluminum foil to help them retain moisture and continue cooking until they reach an internal temperature of 200-205°F.
4. Rest: Once your beef ribs reach the desired internal temperature, remove them from the grill and let them rest in foil for 15-20 minutes before serving.

What Temperature Do I Cook Beef Ribs On A Pellet Grill?

To cook beef short ribs on a pellet grill, start by preheating the grill to 250 °F. Use oak or hickory pellets for a rich flavor, or choose your preferred variety. Once the grill is preheated, trim any excess fat from the beef ribs. As for the cooking time, it will depend on various factors such as the size of the ribs and desired doneness. As a general rule, cook ribs until they reach an internal temperature of 190°F for tender beef and 205°F for fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

How Long To Cook Beef Ribs On Pellet Grill?

The cooking time for beef ribs on a pellet grill can vary depending on the type of ribs and their size. As a general guideline, plan to cook your beef ribs for 2-3 hours at 225-250°F, followed by an additional hour or so in foil. However, it’s always best to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature reaches **190°F for tender ribs and 205°F for fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so it’s important to monitor the temperature regularly.

How Can I Tell When The Beef Ribs Are Done Cooking?

As mentioned before, the best way to determine when your beef ribs are done cooking is by using a meat thermometer. Once the internal temperature reaches 190°F for tender ribs or 205°F for fall-off-the-bone tenderness, they are ready to be removed from the grill. Additionally, you can also check if the meat is pulling away from the bones and has a nice crust on the outside. It’s always better to slightly overcook than undercook beef ribs, as this will ensure they are tender and juicy.

Tips For Cooking Beef Ribs On Pellet Grill

• Use a rub or marinade to add flavor and tenderize the meat.
• Don’t cook beef ribs at too high of a temperature, as this can result in tough and dry meat.
• Keep an eye on the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.
• Let the ribs rest after cooking before serving to allow the juices to redistribute and ensure a more tender, flavorful meat.
• Experiment with different types of wood pellets for unique flavor profiles.
• Use foil or butcher paper to wrap the ribs during cooking to help retain moisture and add tenderness.

What To Serve With Beef Ribs?

Beef ribs are a delicious and hearty main dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your pellet-grilled beef ribs:

• Grilled vegetables such as corn, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Baked beans or coleslaw for a classic BBQ meal.
• Creamy mashed potatoes or mac and cheese for a comforting and indulgent side.
• Fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette for a lighter option.
• Cornbread or dinner rolls to soak up any extra sauce or juices from the ribs.

How To Store Leftover Beef Ribs?

Transfer leftovers of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and chicken to shallow containers to chill quickly and ensure safety. Leftover barbecue can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for 2-3 months. Before reheating, allow the meat to thaw completely in the refrigerator and then heat it to an internal temperature of 165°F. For best results, reheat the ribs in a 250°F oven wrapped in foil until heated through.