How to BBQ Ribs: Perfectly Tender and Sticky Grilled Spareribs

The Ultimate Guide on How to BBQ Ribs: Fall-Off-The-Bone Goodness

Learning how to BBQ ribs is a rite of passage for any grilling enthusiast. This mouthwatering recipe combines the low-and-slow method with a homemade sweet and spicy BBQ sauce that creates the perfect sticky, smoky, and tender ribs that will have your guests begging for more.

Why This BBQ Ribs Recipe Will Be Your New Favorite

Mastering how to BBQ ribs is all about patience and technique. What makes these ribs special is our two-step cooking process: first baking them to tenderize the meat, then finishing them on the grill with our signature rum-infused BBQ sauce for that authentic smoky flavor and sticky exterior that rib lovers crave.

Prep Time and Cooking Time for Perfect BBQ Ribs

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours
• Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings

Ingredients You’ll Need for Mouthwatering BBQ Ribs

• 4 pounds pork spareribs
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional but recommended)
• 2 teaspoons liquid smoke (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons butter

Step-by-Step Instructions on How to BBQ Ribs

1. Prepare the Ribs: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Trim any excess fat from the ribs and remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs using a paper towel to grip it.
2. Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the ribs.
3. Initial Bake: Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, meat side up. Cover tightly with another sheet of foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours or until the meat is tender but not falling off the bone.
4. Prepare the BBQ Sauce: While the ribs are baking, combine the remaining brown sugar, vinegar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, rum (if using), liquid smoke (if using), cayenne pepper, and butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, and cook for about 15 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
5. Preheat the Grill: About 15 minutes before the ribs are done baking, preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350-400 degrees F).
6. Grill the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully transfer them to the preheated grill, meat side down. Grill for 5 minutes.
7. Apply the BBQ Sauce: Flip the ribs over, brush generously with the BBQ sauce, and grill for another 5 minutes.
8. Repeat the Basting: Continue to flip and baste the ribs every 5 minutes for about 20-30 minutes total, or until the sauce has formed a sticky glaze and the ribs have a nice char in spots.
9. Rest and Serve: Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes. Cut between the bones and serve with any remaining BBQ sauce on the side.

Pro Tips for BBQ Rib Success

• The Membrane Trick: Don’t skip removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This tough layer prevents flavors from penetrating and can make ribs chewy.
• Low and Slow: The key to tender ribs is cooking them slowly. Resist the urge to increase the oven temperature to speed up the process.
• The Bend Test: To check if your ribs are done, pick them up with tongs in the middle. If they bend easily and the meat starts to crack on the surface, they’re ready.
• Rest Period: Always let your ribs rest for 10 minutes before cutting. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
• Sauce Application: Apply sauce in multiple thin layers rather than one thick layer. This creates a better glaze and prevents burning.

Nutritional Information for BBQ Ribs

Frequently Asked Questions About How to BBQ Ribs

What’s the difference between spareribs and baby back ribs?

Spareribs come from the belly side of the pig and are typically meatier, fattier, and more flavorful than baby back ribs, which come from the loin area. Both work well with this recipe, though cooking times may vary slightly.

Can I make these ribs without a grill?

Yes! You can finish the ribs under your oven’s broiler instead of on a grill. Just place them on a baking sheet, brush with sauce, and broil for 3-4 minutes per side, basting between turns.

How can I tell when my ribs are perfectly done?

Perfectly cooked ribs should have meat that pulls cleanly from the bone with a slight tug but doesn’t completely fall off. If you can insert a toothpick between the bones with little resistance, they’re ready.

Can I prepare these BBQ ribs in advance?

Absolutely! You can complete the baking step up to a day in advance. Cool the ribs, wrap them tightly, refrigerate, and then bring them to room temperature before finishing on the grill.

Perfect Side Dishes for Your BBQ Ribs

Complete your BBQ feast with these classic sides:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Homemade baked beans
• Cornbread
• Mac and cheese
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Potato salad

Master How to BBQ Ribs for Your Next Cookout

Now that you’ve learned how to BBQ ribs with this foolproof method, you’re ready to impress at your next backyard gathering. The combination of tender, slow-cooked meat and that perfect sweet-spicy glaze creates an unforgettable dish that epitomizes summer cooking. Whether you’re a BBQ novice or a seasoned pitmaster, these ribs deliver restaurant-quality results right in your own backyard.

Recipe adapted from: AllRecipes Barbecue Ribs