What You’ll Love About This Recipe
These BBQ ribs are a crowd-pleaser, combining tender meat with a smoky, flavorful glaze. Here’s why you’ll love them:
- Fall-off-the-bone tenderness achieved through slow cooking.
- Rich, smoky flavor from a perfect blend of spices and BBQ sauce.
- Easy to customize with your favorite rubs or sauces for a personal touch.
Recipe

Succulent BBQ ribs are a classic favorite, perfect for backyard gatherings or a hearty family dinner. The combination of tender meat and smoky, tangy sauce makes this dish irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and pat them dry with paper towels.
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
- Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Remove the ribs from the foil and brush them generously with BBQ sauce.
- Grill the ribs for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sauce is caramelized and the ribs have a slight char.
- Remove from the grill, let them rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Notes:
For a smokier flavor, you can add wood chips to your grill. Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level.
Time:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 550 per serving
Cuisine: American
Nutrition
Nutritional information can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 450 kcal |
Protein | 30 g |
Fat | 25 g |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Sugar | 10 g |
Sodium | 800 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my BBQ ribs with classic side dishes like coleslaw or cornbread, which balance the smoky flavors perfectly.
A cold glass of iced tea or a crisp beer can really hit the spot, too, especially on a warm day.
Let’s talk about how to make these combos work for your next meal!
Side Dishes
Pairing BBQ ribs with the right side dishes can take your meal from good to unforgettable.
I always include grilled vegetables—zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus are my go-to’s—because they add a smoky, charred flavor that complements the ribs perfectly.
A creamy potato salad is another must-have; it’s cool, tangy, and balances the richness of the meat.
Sometimes, I’ll throw in a fresh green salad or some buttered cornbread for extra texture.
These sides aren’t just fillers; they’re part of the experience, making every bite of those tender ribs even more satisfying.
Beverage Pairings
When it comes to enjoying BBQ ribs, the right drink can make all the difference, and I’ve found that a cold, invigorating beer is a classic choice that never disappoints.
A hoppy craft beer, like an IPA, cuts through the richness of the ribs, while a smooth lager complements the smoky flavors.
If beer isn’t your thing, summer cocktails are a stimulating alternative. A tangy margarita or a fruity sangria pairs beautifully with the sweet and savory glaze.
I love experimenting with drinks to find the perfect match—it’s like adding the final touch to a delicious masterpiece. Cheers!