As an affiliate, we may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website from Amazon and other third parties.
If you're looking to elevate your BBQ game, these six beef recipes are exactly what you need. Each dish brings something unique to the table, from the rich flavors of a perfectly smoked brisket to the bold taste of spicy beef jerky. You'll want to impress your friends and family with these delights. Ready to discover which recipes will become your new favorites? Let's get started.
Key Takeaways
- Perfectly Smoked Brisket requires a spice rub and low, slow cooking for 10-14 hours, yielding tender, flavorful meat.
- Tender BBQ Beef Ribs benefit from a dry rub and a two-step cooking process for a caramelized finish.
- Flavorful Beef Short Ribs involve searing and slow cooking, resulting in rich flavors and tenderness when brushed with BBQ sauce.
- Spicy Beef Jerky uses lean cuts like flank steak, marinated overnight, and dehydrated for a delicious, shelf-stable snack.
- BBQ Beef Burgers made with high-quality ground beef and Worcestershire sauce deliver juicy, customizable patties ideal for grilling.
Perfectly Smoked Brisket
Before you begin, make sure to allow ample time for both preparation and cooking. Smoking a brisket can take anywhere from 10 to 14 hours, depending on its size. Patience is essential, as the slow cooking method will break down the connective tissues, resulting in tender, flavorful slices.
Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole brisket (10-12 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup beef broth or apple juice (for spritzing)
- Wood chips (hickory, oak, or mesquite) for smoking
Cooking Instructions:
- Start by trimming the brisket, removing excess fat while leaving about a quarter-inch layer to keep the meat moist during cooking. Rinse the brisket under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix together the kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this spice mixture generously all over the brisket, ensuring to cover both sides and the edges. Wrap the brisket in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) and add your wood chips according to the manufacturer's instructions. Place the brisket fat side up on the smoker grate and cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours per pound, or until the internal temperature reaches 195°F (90°C) to 205°F (96°C).
- During the smoking process, spritz the brisket with beef broth or apple juice every hour to keep it moist. Once the brisket reaches the desired temperature, remove it from the smoker and wrap it tightly in butcher paper or aluminum foil. Let it rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, allow your brisket to rest for a longer period, ideally 1 to 2 hours, wrapped in a towel and placed in an insulated cooler. This resting period helps redistribute the juices, ensuring that every slice is tender and flavorful.
Additionally, consider experimenting with different wood types to find your preferred flavor profile. Always slice the brisket against the grain for maximum tenderness. Enjoy your perfectly smoked brisket at your next BBQ gathering!
Tender BBQ Beef Ribs
When it comes to BBQ, few dishes evoke the same level of excitement and mouthwatering anticipation as tender BBQ beef ribs. These succulent cuts of meat, with their rich flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness, are perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy family dinner.
With the right marinade and cooking technique, you can achieve that smoky, savory goodness that BBQ lovers crave. To make the most of your beef ribs, it's crucial to start with high-quality meat. Whether you choose short ribs or back ribs, the marbling in the meat will guarantee a juicy and flavorful end result.
Pairing the ribs with a homemade BBQ sauce or a spice rub can elevate the dish even further, making it a standout on any table. Let's plunge into the recipe and get those ribs sizzling!
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds beef ribs (short or back)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper to create a dry rub.
Pat the beef ribs dry with paper towels and generously coat them with the spice mixture, making sure every side is covered. Place the ribs in a baking dish, bone side down, and pour the beef broth around them. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and place it in the oven.
Bake the ribs for about 3 hours or until they're tender. Once they're done, carefully remove them from the oven and discard the foil. Preheat your grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
Brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and grill them for an additional 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sauce caramelizes and develops a nice char.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the ribs overnight with your spice rub or a mixture of BBQ sauce and apple cider vinegar. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.
Additionally, you can experiment with different wood chips on the grill for a unique smoky flavor, such as hickory or mesquite. Finally, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes after grilling, which allows the juices to redistribute for a more tender bite. Enjoy your BBQ beef ribs!
Flavorful Beef Short Ribs
Beef short ribs are a delightful cut of meat that can transform any backyard BBQ into a culinary event. These succulent ribs are known for their rich, beefy flavor and tenderness when cooked correctly. When grilled or smoked, the marbling of fat in the meat melts away, resulting in a juicy and flavorful bite. Pair them with your favorite BBQ sauce or a simple dry rub, and you have a dish that will impress family and friends alike.
In this recipe, we'll focus on a simple yet effective method to prepare flavorful BBQ beef short ribs. By slow-cooking them on the grill, you allow the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the meat becomes fall-off-the-bone tender. Whether you're a seasoned pitmaster or a novice cook, this method will yield delicious results that are sure to become a staple at your gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by preparing the beef short ribs. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they're evenly coated.
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until they develop a nice brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Once the ribs are seared, transfer them to a large piece of aluminum foil or a roasting pan. Pour the beef broth over the ribs, then cover tightly with foil or a lid. Place the ribs on a preheated grill set to low heat (around 250°F) and cook for about 4-5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and allow them to caramelize. Once done, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving, garnished with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the short ribs overnight in your favorite marinade or dry rub. Additionally, if you have the time, smoke the ribs with wood chips for a deeper, smokier flavor.
Remember to keep an eye on the grill temperature and add charcoal or wood chips as needed to maintain consistent heat. Enjoy your flavorful BBQ beef short ribs alongside classic sides like coleslaw or baked beans for a complete meal!
Spicy Beef Jerky
To guarantee that your jerky has the best flavor and texture, it's important to choose the right cut of beef. Flank steak or top round are great options as they're lean and will dry well without becoming too tough. Marinating the meat overnight will also enhance the flavor and help achieve that perfect spicy kick.
Follow the recipe below to create your own spicy beef jerky that's sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds flank steak or top round
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon hot sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by slicing the beef into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick. It's easier to slice the meat if it's slightly frozen.
Once sliced, combine all the remaining ingredients in a bowl to create a marinade. Add the beef strips to the marinade, guaranteeing they're well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat thoroughly.
After marinating, preheat your oven to 175°F (80°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated beef strips in a single layer on the rack, making sure they don't overlap.
Bake for 4 to 6 hours, flipping the strips halfway through, until the jerky is dry and firm but still slightly pliable. Once done, let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
Extra Tips:
For the best results, guarantee that your beef is as lean as possible, as fat can spoil the jerky. If you have a dehydrator, feel free to use it instead of the oven for ideal drying.
Adjust the spice levels in the marinade according to your personal preference; you can add more hot sauce or cayenne for an extra kick. Store your jerky in a cool, dry place, and it will last for several weeks—if you can resist eating it all at once!
BBQ Beef Burgers
BBQ Beef Burgers are a classic summer staple that can bring the family together for a delicious meal. Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner, these juicy burgers are sure to impress. With a perfect blend of spices and smoky flavor, they're easy to prepare and even easier to customize with your favorite toppings.
To make your BBQ Beef Burgers stand out, choose high-quality ground beef with at least 80% lean meat for maximum flavor and juiciness. You can also experiment with different seasonings and sauces to create a burger that suits your taste. Serve your burgers on fresh buns with an array of toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20 lean)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- BBQ sauce (for serving)
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, cheese
To begin, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly but be careful not to overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
Shape the mixture into four equal patties, making a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
Once the grill is hot, place the patties on the grill and cook for about 4-5 minutes on one side. Flip the patties and brush with BBQ sauce, continuing to grill for another 4-5 minutes or until they reach your desired level of doneness. If you're adding cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt.
Remove the burgers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
Extra Tips:
For an added flavor boost, try marinating the beef in your favorite BBQ sauce for an hour before forming the patties.
Additionally, to prevent sticking, lightly oil the grill grates before cooking. If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider adding wood chips to your grill or using a charcoal grill.
Don't forget to customize your burgers with creative toppings like avocado, bacon, or fried egg for an extra indulgence!
Savory Beef Skewers
Savory beef skewers are a delicious and straightforward way to enjoy the rich flavors of grilled beef. Perfect for summer barbecues or family gatherings, these skewers aren't only easy to prepare but also allow for creativity with marinades and vegetables. The combination of tender beef and vibrant veggies makes for a visually appealing and mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
Marinating the beef before grilling is crucial to infuse it with flavor and guarantee tenderness. You can customize the marinade to suit your taste, whether you prefer a garlic and herb blend or a zesty Asian-inspired sauce. These skewers cook quickly on the grill, making them a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb beef sirloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 bell peppers, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Skewers (wooden or metal)
To prepare, start by making the marinade. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, olive oil, Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, black pepper, and paprika. Add the beef cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill. Once the beef is marinated, assemble the skewers by alternating pieces of beef with bell peppers, onion, and cherry tomatoes.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the beef is cooked to your desired level of doneness. The vegetables should be tender and slightly charred.
Remove from the grill and let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving. For best results, allow the beef to marinate longer if time permits—up to 2 hours for enhanced flavor.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables or add herbs like rosemary or thyme to the marinade for additional depth. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature for medium-rare beef is 135°F. Enjoy your savory beef skewers with a side of dipping sauce or a fresh salad!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Best Cuts of Beef for BBQ?
When you're BBQing, choose cuts like brisket, ribs, and flank steak. These offer rich flavors and tender textures. Don't forget about chuck roast, too—it's perfect for slow cooking and absorbing smoky goodness. Enjoy your grilling!
How Do I Store Leftover BBQ Beef?
Think of leftover BBQ beef as a treasure. To store it, let it cool, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic, and place it in the fridge. It'll stay delicious for up to four days!
What Side Dishes Pair Well With BBQ Beef?
When you're enjoying BBQ beef, consider pairing it with coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. These sides complement the rich flavors perfectly, enhancing your meal's overall experience and bringing a delightful balance to your plate.
How Can I Adjust BBQ Recipes for Different Grill Types?
To adjust BBQ recipes for different grill types, you'll want to modify cooking times and temperatures. For charcoal, manage heat zones; for gas, preheat well. Experiment with wood chips for added flavor on any grill.
What Marinades Enhance BBQ Beef Flavor?
To enhance BBQ beef flavor, use marinades with ingredients like soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar. Citrus juices or vinegar can tenderize meat while adding zest. Experimenting with herbs and spices will elevate your dish even more.
