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Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners · SauceAmerican BBQ

Smoked Beef Back Ribs with Dry Rub

By Robert P. Anderson · US & Metric Measurements · Ready in 6 hr 20 min

★★★★★4.8
·(32 home cook ratings)·✓ Tested in US Kitchens

Smoked Beef Back Ribs with Dry Rub layers 2 racks of beef back ribs, kosher salt, paprika with clean hardwood smoke at 250°F on your Pit Boss pellet grill. Steady indirect heat builds a flavorful outer bark while keeping the interior juicy and tender. Plan on roughly 6.3 hours from prep to pull so the meat has time to take on smoke and rest before slicing.

Prep: 20 min
Cook: 6 hr
Total: 6 hr 20 min
Servings: 6
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Ingredients (8)

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Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Calories
466 kcal
Total Fat
18g
Protein
50g
Carbs
16g
Sodium: 706mgFiber: 3g
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1
The membrane below the ribs should be removed. Dry by patting.
2
In a bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients and thoroughly coat the ribs on both sides.
3
Set the smoker's temperature to 250°F (121°C).
4
For five to six hours, smoke the ribs until the meat is soft and starting to separate from the bones.
5
Optional: For more moisture, wrap the ribs in foil for the final hour or two.
6
Before slicing and serving, let it rest for 20 minutes.

💡 Chef Tips for Best Results

  • ✓Preheat your Pit Boss with the lid closed for 15–20 minutes until thin blue smoke appears before putting Smoked Beef Back Ribs with Dry Rub on the grates.
  • ✓Cook to internal temperature rather than the clock alone (target smoker setting 250°F), using a calibrated leave-in meat probe in the thickest part.
  • ✓Rest cooked meats loosely tented in butcher paper or foil for 10–20 minutes so the juices redistribute before carving.

🧊 Storage, Freezing & Safe Reheating

Cool leftovers within 2 hours and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently until steaming hot (165°F internal temperature).

Frequently Asked Questions

What wood pellets work best for Smoked Beef Back Ribs with Dry Rub on a Pit Boss?

A competition blend (maple, hickory, and cherry) is a reliable all-rounder; use fruitwoods like apple or cherry for poultry, pork, and fish, or stronger hickory and oak for beef and rich game-day dishes.

How do I know when Smoked Beef Back Ribs with Dry Rub is done smoking?

Always verify with an instant-read digital thermometer in the thickest part of the food: USDA safe minimums are 165°F for poultry, 145°F with a 3-minute rest for whole cuts of pork or beef, and 195–203°F for probe-tender brisket or pulled pork.

📖 More Recipes from Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners

Adapted from Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners by Robert P. Anderson. Explore all 160 recipes in this collection or look up the print & Kindle edition on Amazon.

RP

Recipe by Robert P. Anderson

Adapted from Pit Boss Smoker Cookbook for Beginners and edited for American kitchens by the RecipeVault Pro editorial team — US & metric measurements, USDA-safe doneness temperatures, and practical tips. Our editorial policy

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