Irresistible BBQ Rib Recipes: Sweet and Smoky Spareribs That Fall Off the Bone

Fall-Off-The-Bone Sweet and Smoky BBQ Rib Recipe

Looking for the ultimate bbq rib recipes that will impress your family and friends at your next cookout? These mouthwatering ribs are the perfect combination of sweet, spicy, and smoky flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The secret to these incredible ribs is in the two-step cooking process – first baked until tender, then finished on the grill for that authentic barbecue char and flavor.

Why This BBQ Rib Recipe Works

There’s something magical about perfectly cooked ribs – that moment when the meat pulls cleanly off the bone but doesn’t fall off before you take a bite. These barbecue spareribs achieve that perfect texture through a slow baking process before hitting the grill, where a homemade rum-infused BBQ sauce creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s simply irresistible.

Key Ingredients for Perfect BBQ Ribs

• 4 pounds pork spareribs
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup water
• For the BBQ Sauce:
• 1 1/2 cups ketchup
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup molasses
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons rum (optional but recommended)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon liquid smoke
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)

How to Make the Best BBQ Ribs at Home

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position an oven rack in the middle position.
2. Prepare the dry rub by mixing garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl until well combined.
3. Rinse the spareribs and pat them dry with paper towels. Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a knife under it and pulling it off with a paper towel (this helps the flavors penetrate and makes the ribs more tender).
4. Generously apply the dry rub mixture to both sides of the ribs, massaging it into the meat.
5. Place the ribs on a large baking sheet, meat side up. Pour water into the bottom of the pan (this creates steam for more tender ribs). Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat begins to pull away from the bones but is not falling off completely.
7. While the ribs are baking, prepare the BBQ sauce. Combine all sauce ingredients in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce should thicken slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.
8. Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 350°F).
9. Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully transfer them to the preheated grill.
10. Grill the ribs for 10-15 minutes, basting frequently with the BBQ sauce and turning occasionally to prevent burning. The sauce should caramelize and create a sticky, delicious glaze.
11. Once the ribs are nicely charred and the sauce has formed a glossy coating, remove them from the grill.
12. Let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting between the bones to serve.

Pro Tips for Perfect BBQ Ribs Every Time

• Remove the membrane: This tough layer on the back of the ribs can prevent flavors from penetrating and results in tougher ribs.
• Low and slow is key: Patience yields tender, flavorful ribs that aren’t tough or chewy.
• Don’t rush the sauce: Allowing the BBQ sauce to simmer develops deeper flavors and the perfect consistency.
• Rest before serving: This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat for maximum tenderness and flavor.
• Foil is your friend: The tight foil seal during baking creates a steam environment that helps break down tough connective tissues.

Variations on Classic BBQ Ribs

Spicy BBQ Ribs: Double the cayenne pepper and add 1 tablespoon of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce for a fiery kick.

Honey Bourbon Ribs: Replace the rum with bourbon and add 2 tablespoons of honey to the BBQ sauce for a sweeter, smokier profile.

Asian-Inspired Ribs: Add 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon of ginger to the BBQ sauce for an East-meets-West fusion.

What to Serve with BBQ Ribs

Complete your BBQ feast with these perfect side dishes:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Cornbread muffins
• Baked beans
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Potato salad
• Mac and cheese

Storing and Reheating Leftover BBQ Ribs

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (which rarely happens with these ribs!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap the ribs in foil with a tablespoon of water or apple juice, and warm in a 300°F oven for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.

Nutrition Information

504 kcal per serving |
23g carbohydrates |
30g protein |
30g fat |
11g saturated fat |
120mg cholesterol |
715mg sodium |
20g sugar

Perfect BBQ Rib Recipes for Every Occasion

Whether you’re planning a summer backyard barbecue, a game day feast, or just craving some comfort food, these BBQ ribs deliver unforgettable flavor and that perfect tender texture every time. The combination of slow baking and finishing on the grill with a homemade sauce creates ribs that are guaranteed to become your new go-to bbq rib recipes for years to come.

Recipe adapted from AllRecipes