BBQ Pork Ribs are tender, juicy ribs coated in a smoky, sweet barbecue sauce. They are cooked until the meat is falling off the bone, making them perfect for any grill or oven. The rich flavor is very tempting.
I remember my first time making ribs—messy but fun! Now I always double the sauce; I like my ribs extra saucy and messy in a good way.
If you want, serve them with some coleslaw or baked beans. That way, you get a complete, tasty meal everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: The star of the dish, use baby back or spares. I find baby back ribs easier to handle and cook evenly. If unavailable, pork loin can work sliced into strips, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
BBQ Sauce: A sweet, tangy sauce adds flavor. I like a homemade mix, but store-bought works well. For a healthier twist, try a vinegar-based sauce or reducing sugar in your favorite recipe.
Dry Rub: Usually a blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. I keep it simple, but adding a pinch of cayenne gives a nice kick. You can substitute with seasoned salt or a premixed barbecue seasoning.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds tang and helps tenderize the meat. I use it for a little zip, but lemon juice or a splash of balsamic can be good substitutes if needed.
How do I ensure my ribs are tender and not dry?
Cooking ribs slowly at a low temperature helps keep them juicy. Wrap them in foil during the last part to trap moisture. Check doneness by bending a rack; it should crack easily without falling apart completely.
- Preheat oven or grill to low (around 275°F).
- Wrap ribs tightly in foil with a little liquid (like apple juice).
- Cook for 2.5-3 hours, then uncover, add sauce, and cook longer if needed.
How to Make BBQ Pork Ribs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pork Ribs
- 2 racks of pork ribs
Dry Rub
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
BBQ Sauce
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep + 2.5 hours cooking + 30 minutes resting = 3 hours
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Dry Rub
Mix brown sugar, paprika, pepper, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a bowl.
3. Apply the Rub
Rub the spice mixture evenly all over the ribs. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
4. Preheat the Grill or Oven
Set your grill to low heat (around 275°F) or preheat your oven to 300°F. Prepare for indirect cooking.
5. Cook the Ribs
Wrap ribs in aluminum foil. Cook on the grill or in the oven for 2 to 2.5 hours until tender.
6. Apply BBQ Sauce
Unwrap the ribs. Brush with BBQ sauce. Grill or bake uncovered for 15-30 minutes, basting occasionally.
7. Rest and Serve
Let ribs rest for 15-30 minutes. Slice and serve with extra sauce if desired.
