Go Back
Grilled BBQ Ribs

Grilled BBQ Ribs - Delicious Meal Ideas

You know that moment when you take a bite of BBQ ribs and the flavors explode? Yup, that’s the magic I want to talk about today. I’m talking about a recipe for grilled BBQ ribs that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also fills your home with the tantalizing scents of summer.
This isn’t just any ribs recipe; it’s a product of my years of experimenting, taste-testing, and refining techniques in the kitchen. As a registered dietitian and food enthusiast, I'm dedicated to creating recipes that are not only scrumptious but also embody the delight of home-cooked meals. 
You’ll find that this BBQ ribs recipe stands out—not just for its taste but for its simplicity and ability to impress friends and family.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 3-4 pounds pork spare ribs
  • 2 tablespoons coarse kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 tablespoon garlic granules
  • 1/4 cup smoked sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon onion flakes, crushed
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
For the BBQ Sauce
  • 1/2 cup tomato ketchup
  • 1/2 cup raw apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons black pepper, freshly ground
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 tablespoon garlic granules
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard or stone-ground mustard
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt or kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon molasses

Method
 

Step 1: Preparing the Ribs
  1. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is crucial for tenderness. Flip the ribs over and use a knife to lift the membrane from one end. Grab it with a paper towel for a solid grip and pull it off.
Step 2: Creating the Spice Rub
  1. In a bowl, combine the kosher salt, cayenne pepper, garlic granules, smoked paprika, mustard powder, black pepper, brown sugar, onion flakes, and cumin. Stir well to blend all the ingredients. This magic mixture will provide that unforgettable flavor.
Step 3: Seasoning the Ribs
  1. Generously rub the spice mix all over the ribs. Ensure they are evenly coated. Wrap them in plastic wrap and let them marinate in the fridge for at least two hours, but for best results, overnight is ideal.
Step 4: Making the BBQ Sauce
  1. In a saucepan, mix the ketchup, apple cider vinegar, sweet smoked paprika, freshly ground black pepper, brown sugar, garlic granules, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, sea salt, and molasses. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Stir frequently and let it cook for about 15 minutes until thickened.
Step 5: Grilling the Ribs
  1. Preheat your grill for indirect cooking at about 250°F (121°C). Position the ribs away from direct heat. Close the lid and let them cook low and slow for about 2.5 to 3 hours. This slow cooking process makes the ribs tender.
Step 6: Basting with BBQ Sauce
  1. After the ribs have cooked for 2.5 hours, brush them with your homemade BBQ sauce. Continue to grill them for an additional 30 minutes, turning and basting every 10 minutes. This caramelization adds a rich layer of flavor that you'll love.
Step 7: Resting Before Serving
  1. Once done, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Notes

  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Aim for an internal temperature of about 190°F (88°C) for perfectly tender ribs.
  • Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add different spices to your rub. Experiment with chili powder, or even espresso powder for a unique twist.
  • Time Management: You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. It keeps well in the fridge for weeks, making your BBQ day less hectic.
  • Direct Grilling: For a crispier finish, you can place the ribs over direct heat at the end for a couple of minutes. Just watch them closely to prevent charring.
  • Foil Technique: If you’re short on time, you can wrap the seasoned ribs in foil and bake them at 300°F (149°C) in the oven for about 2.5 hours before grilling. This saves time while still keeping them moist.