Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Ribs

Few things are as satisfying as tender, juicy ribs coated in a flavorful rub or sauce. Whether you’re grilling, smoking, or baking them, this ribs recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or game day, these ribs are sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Prepare: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
  • Tender and Juicy: Cooked low and slow for the perfect texture.
  • Versatile Cooking Methods: Can be grilled, smoked, or baked.
  • Flavor-Packed: A rich, smoky, and savory taste in every bite.
  • Great for Gatherings: Ideal for summer cookouts or casual dinners.
Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Ribs 10 Few things are as satisfying as tender, juicy ribs coated in a flavorful rub or sauce. Whether you're grilling, smoking, or baking them, this ribs recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or game day, these ribs are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
  • Brown sugar
  • Paprika
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Black pepper
  • Salt
  • Chili powder
  • Cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • BBQ sauce
  • Apple cider vinegar
  • Olive oil

Directions

  1. Prepare the ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.
  2. Make the rub: In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder, and cayenne pepper.
  3. Season the ribs: Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the ribs.
  4. Cook the ribs: Choose your preferred method:
    • Oven: Preheat to 275°F (135°C), wrap the ribs in foil, and bake for 2.5-3 hours until tender.
    • Grill: Cook over indirect heat at 225°F (107°C) for 4-5 hours, basting with BBQ sauce.
    • Smoker: Smoke at 225°F for 5-6 hours, spritzing with apple cider vinegar occasionally.
  5. Finish with sauce: Brush with BBQ sauce and cook uncovered for another 15-20 minutes.
  6. Rest and serve: Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4-6
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3-6 hours (depending on method)
  • Total Time: 3-6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

  • Sweet and Spicy: Add more cayenne and a honey glaze.
  • Asian-Inspired: Use a hoisin and soy sauce glaze.
  • Dry Rub Only: Skip the BBQ sauce for a more robust spice-crusted rib.
  • Bourbon BBQ: Add a splash of bourbon to the sauce for extra depth.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze cooked ribs for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in a 300°F oven, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Ribs
Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Ribs 11 Few things are as satisfying as tender, juicy ribs coated in a flavorful rub or sauce. Whether you're grilling, smoking, or baking them, this ribs recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone goodness with minimal effort. Perfect for BBQs, family dinners, or game day, these ribs are sure to be a hit!

FAQs

What type of ribs should I use?

Baby back ribs are more tender, while spare ribs have more meat and flavor.

How do I get the ribs extra tender?

Cooking them low and slow with a wrap (like foil) helps retain moisture.

Can I make ribs without a grill?

Yes! The oven method works great for fall-off-the-bone ribs.

Should I marinate the ribs overnight?

While not necessary, letting the rub sit overnight enhances flavor.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

The meat should pull away from the bone easily, and an internal temp of 195-205°F is ideal.

Can I cook ribs faster?

Yes, using a pressure cooker or Instant Pot can cut cooking time significantly.

What’s the best wood for smoking ribs?

Hickory, apple, and cherry wood all complement pork ribs well.

Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce?

Absolutely! Use your favorite or make a homemade version.

Should I wrap the ribs in foil?

Yes, wrapping helps steam and tenderize the meat during cooking.

Can I make ribs ahead of time?

Yes, cook them a day in advance and reheat before serving for convenience.

Conclusion

This ribs recipe delivers mouthwatering, tender meat packed with smoky, savory flavors. Whether you’re using the oven, grill, or smoker, these ribs are sure to impress. Try them for your next gathering and enjoy BBQ perfection!

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Ribs

Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Ribs

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: Maria B. Evans
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours
  • Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Oven or Grill
  • Cuisine: American, BBQ

Description

Tender, juicy, and packed with smoky barbecue flavor, these ribs are slow-cooked to perfection and finished with a caramelized glaze. Perfect for grilling or baking!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 racks baby back ribs (or spare ribs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

For Dry Rub:

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

For BBQ Sauce (or use store-bought):

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
  • 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

Instructions

  • Prep the ribs – Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for tenderness. Pat dry and rub with olive oil.
  • Make the dry rub – Mix all dry rub ingredients in a bowl. Generously coat both sides of the ribs.
  • Wrap & rest – Wrap the ribs in plastic wrap or foil and let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).
  • Slow cook the ribs:
    • Oven method: Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Wrap ribs in foil and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
    • Grill method: Set up your grill for indirect heat at 275°F (135°C). Cook ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours, wrapping them in foil halfway through.
  • Make the BBQ glaze – Mix barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce in a bowl.
  • Glaze & finish:
    • Oven: Unwrap ribs, brush with BBQ sauce, and broil for 5 minutes until caramelized.
    • Grill: Brush with BBQ sauce and grill over direct heat for 5-10 minutes until slightly charred.
  • Rest & serve – Let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes, then slice and serve with extra BBQ sauce.

Notes

  • For extra smoky flavor: Add a teaspoon of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
  • Want fall-off-the-bone ribs? Bake at 250°F for 4 hours for even more tenderness.
  • Short on time? Use an Instant Pot: Pressure cook on high for 25 minutes, then broil or grill with BBQ sauce.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 15g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Protein: 35g

Leave a Comment & Rate this Recipe!

If you love this recipe, please consider giving it a star rating when you leave a comment. Star ratings help people discover my recipes online. Your support means a lot to me, I appreciate you.

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *