Do you love fall-off-the-bone tender beef ribs that will make your mouth water? Are you looking for the perfect way to smoke them so they turn out juicy and delicious each time? If so, we have great news: Smoked beef ribs don’t take as long as you might think! With just a few simple tips and tricks, you can easily learn how long to smoke beef ribs at 250. Not only is it an easy process but it will help ensure that the final product is cooked through without getting dry or tough. Read on for our ultimate guide on how long to smoke beef ribs at 250 temperature.
Contents
- 1 What Are Beef Ribs?
- 2 Is 250°F The Optimal Temperature For Smoking Beef Ribs?
- 3 Ingredients Needed For Smoking Short Beef Ribs
- 4 How To Smoke Beef Ribs At 250?
- 5 How Long To Smoke Beef Ribs At 250?
- 6 What Seasonings Are Recommended For Smoked Beef Ribs?
- 7 How Can You Tell When Beef Ribs Are Cooked?
- 8 Tips And Tricks When Smoking Beef Rib
What Are Beef Ribs?
Beef ribs are a popular cut of meat that come from the rib cage of a cow. They are known for their rich, beefy flavor and can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, roasting, braising, and smoking. Smoked beef ribs have become increasingly popular over the years as they offer a unique smoky flavor and tender texture that is unmatched by any other cooking method. Whether you are a seasoned pitmaster or just starting out, smoked beef ribs at 250 degrees is the perfect way to achieve mouth-watering results.

Is 250°F The Optimal Temperature For Smoking Beef Ribs?
Smoke beef ribs at 250 degrees Fahrenheit until the meat becomes probe tender, usually between 205-210 degrees internal. 250°F is generally considered the sweet spot for smoking beef ribs as it allows for slow and steady cooking without overcooking or drying out the meat. The low and slow method of smoking at this temperature breaks down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in tender, juicy ribs that are full of flavor.
Ingredients Needed For Smoking Short Beef Ribs
Ingredients:
- Short beef ribs
- Salt and pepper (or your favorite dry rub)
- Wood chips or chunks for smoking (hickory, mesquite, or cherry work well)
- BBQ sauce (optional)
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer.
How To Smoke Beef Ribs At 250?
With your smoker preheated to 250 degrees F, place the seasoned beef ribs on the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for approximately 5 to 6 hours. Spritz the ribs with a vinegar and hot sauce blend (recipe below!). As the beef ribs are not wrapped, the spritz is crucial to maintain moisture and develop a delicious bark. After 3 hours, wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and continue to smoke for an additional hour. This method is known as the “Texas crutch” and helps to speed up the cooking process while keeping the ribs moist.
How Long To Smoke Beef Ribs At 250?
To achieve optimal results, smoke beef ribs at a temperature of 250 degrees Fahrenheit for approximately 6-8 hours. However, the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of your beef ribs. It is always best to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Once the internal temperature reaches 205-210 degrees Fahrenheit, your ribs are ready to be removed from the smoker. After knowing the answer to the question how long to smoke beef ribs at 250. For more related and useful information, please refer to this new information.
What Seasonings Are Recommended For Smoked Beef Ribs?
While there are various seasonings and dry rubs you can use for smoked beef ribs, the most popular and traditional choice is a simple combination of salt and black pepper. This allows the natural flavor of the meat to shine through without overpowering it with too many spices. You can also choose to use your favorite BBQ rub or create your own blend using a mix of herbs and spices that you enjoy.
How Can You Tell When Beef Ribs Are Cooked?
To smoke beef ribs at 250°F, begin checking the ribs after approximately 90 minutes. Pay attention to the texture, feel, and temperature. The ribs should be done when they are highly pliable, with the meat significantly pulled back from the end of the bones. The meat will also easily pull apart when pulled with a fork or tongs, and the internal temperature should read between 205-210 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips And Tricks When Smoking Beef Rib
- Preheat the smoker for a few minutes prior to smoking (ideally at 225F degrees). For beef ribs, smoke them at 250 degrees for the recommended duration.
- Using a spritz during the cooking process helps to keep the ribs moist and develop a flavorful bark.
- The “Texas crutch” method of wrapping beef ribs in aluminum foil can help speed up the cooking process without drying out the meat.
- Allow the smoked beef ribs to rest for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in more tender and flavorful meat.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and dry rubs to find your perfect flavor combination.

Harmony Saunders is the CEO and founder of Bamboo Wok, a family-owned and operated Chinese restaurant that has been serving the Manvel, Rosharon, and Alvin communities for more than nine years. Our delicious dishes are made from scratch with the best ingredients, vegetables are fresh cut daily in our kitchen, and poultry is delivered every two days.
So whether you’re craving Chinese food for the family or need catering for your next event, please give us a try! We know you won’t be disappointed with our fresh, authentic Asian fare.
3-4 hours at 250-275, it’s done when it probes tender, anywhere between 190-205
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It’s always great to hear different perspectives.
I love back ribs theyre amazing and cheap i normally cook at 225 for 3 hours and then bump it up to 250-275 til its done at around 202f
3 hours is a very short cook for beef ribs. probably needed more time
Thank you for sharing your thoughts! It’s always great to hear different perspectives.