Best BBQ Pork Ribs Recipe: Sweet, Sticky, and Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender

Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Pork Ribs with Sweet & Smoky Glaze

Making tender, juicy BBQ pork ribs at home is easier than you think! This fool-proof recipe combines oven-baking and grilling to create the perfect texture, while a homemade sweet and spicy sauce adds incredible flavor. The secret is in the slow cooking process, which ensures these ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender with a caramelized, sticky exterior that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why These BBQ Pork Ribs Are So Amazing

There’s something magical about perfectly cooked pork ribs with barbecue sauce. This recipe delivers that backyard BBQ flavor you crave, but with a foolproof method that works year-round. The ribs are first baked low and slow until tender, then finished on the grill for that authentic smoky flavor and beautiful caramelization.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Perfect BBQ Pork Ribs

• 4 pounds pork spareribs
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium works fine)
• 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup rum (can substitute apple juice for non-alcoholic version)
• 1/2 cup chile sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dry mustard
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

Equipment Needed

• Large baking dish
• Aluminum foil
• Medium saucepan
• Basting brush
• Grill or broiler

Step-by-Step Instructions for Tender BBQ Pork Ribs

1. Prepare the Ribs

   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the racks of ribs into serving-sized portions (about 3-4 ribs per section). Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife under it and pulling it off with a paper towel for better grip.

2. Initial Baking

   Place the ribs in a large baking dish and add 1 cup of water to the bottom. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours. This slow-cooking process will make the ribs tender and juicy.

3. Make the BBQ Sauce

   While the ribs are baking, combine brown sugar, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, rum, chile sauce, garlic, dry mustard, paprika, and black pepper in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat and let it gently simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

4. Prepare for Grilling

   After 2 hours, carefully remove the ribs from the oven. They should be tender but not falling apart. Preheat your grill to medium heat (or set your oven broiler to high).

5. Grill and Baste

   Place the ribs on the preheated grill or under the broiler. Brush generously with the BBQ sauce on both sides. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, basting with additional sauce every time you flip them. Continue this process for about 15-20 minutes total, or until the sauce is sticky and caramelized and the ribs have nice grill marks.

6. Rest and Serve

   Allow the ribs to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat. Serve with the remaining BBQ sauce on the side.

Expert Tips for the Best BBQ Pork Ribs

• Membrane removal: Don’t skip this step! Removing the membrane allows the flavors to penetrate the meat and results in more tender ribs.
• Low and slow: The initial baking period is crucial for tender ribs. Don’t rush this step or increase the temperature.
• Watch during grilling: The sugar in the BBQ sauce can burn quickly, so keep a close eye on the ribs during the grilling phase.
• Sauce consistency: If your sauce is too thin, simmer it longer. If it’s too thick, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
• Make ahead: You can bake the ribs a day ahead, then refrigerate and finish on the grill just before serving.

Variations to Try

• Spicy BBQ Ribs: Add 1-2 tablespoons of your favorite hot sauce or 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
• Honey BBQ Ribs: Substitute half the brown sugar with honey for a different flavor profile.
• Coffee-Infused BBQ Ribs: Add 1/4 cup of strong brewed coffee to the sauce for a deeper, more complex flavor.
• Smoky BBQ Ribs: Add 1-2 teaspoons of liquid smoke to the sauce if you’re using an oven instead of a grill.

What to Serve with BBQ Pork Ribs

These sticky, sweet, and savory ribs pair perfectly with classic BBQ sides:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Baked beans
• Corn on the cob
• Potato salad
• Mac and cheese
• Cornbread
• Grilled vegetables

Nutrition Information

Frequently Asked Questions About BBQ Pork Ribs

How do I know when my BBQ pork ribs are done?

Perfectly cooked ribs should be tender but not falling off the bone completely. When you pick up a rib with tongs, it should bend slightly and the meat should start to crack on the surface.

Can I make these BBQ pork ribs in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Cook them on low for 6-8 hours instead of baking them. Then finish under the broiler or on the grill with the sauce.

What’s the best type of pork ribs to use?

This recipe works well with both spare ribs and baby back ribs. Spare ribs are meatier and have more fat, while baby backs are leaner and cook more quickly.

Can I make the BBQ sauce ahead of time?

Yes! The sauce can be made up to a week in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Why You’ll Love These Homemade BBQ Pork Ribs

These BBQ pork ribs strike the perfect balance between tender meat and sticky, flavorful sauce. The combination of oven-baking and grilling ensures foolproof results every time, giving you restaurant-quality ribs right in your own backyard. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or craving comfort food in the cooler months, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite!

Recipe adapted from AllRecipes