The sweet and tangy taste of barbecue ribs – there’s nothing quite like it. Whether you’re a grill master or just looking to impress your friends, perfecting the art of BBQ ribs is a culinary quest worth undertaking. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering smoky BBQ ribs recipes that will take your grilling game to the next level. From classic dry rubs to sweet and sticky glazes, spicy Sriracha flavors to tangy mustard sauces, we’ve got you covered.
Get ready to fire up your grill and dive into the world of smoky, fall-off-the-bone tender BBQ ribs that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most mouthwatering BBQ ribs recipes out there, from tried-and-true classics to innovative twists on traditional favorites.
Stay tuned for our top 18 smoky BBQ ribs recipes, and get ready to elevate your grilling game like never before!
Classic Smoked BBQ Ribs with Dry Rub
Classic Smoked BBQ Ribs with Dry Rub
Get ready to fall in love with these tender and flavorful ribs that are smothered in a sweet and tangy dry rub. Perfect for your next backyard barbecue or family gathering, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup dry rub mixture (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Dry Rub Mixture:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. Remove membrane from back of ribs (optional).
3. Apply dry rub mixture evenly to both racks of ribs.
4. Place ribs in smoker for 4-5 hours, or until tender.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 30 minutes of smoking.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Honey Glazed BBQ Ribs with Garlic Butter
These fall-off-the-bone tender ribs are slathered in a sticky honey glaze and finished with a rich garlic butter. Perfect for a backyard BBQ or family dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, brown sugar, and vinegar.
3. Remove ribs from package and place on grill. Brush with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Close lid and cook for 20 minutes.
5. While ribs are cooking, mix butter and garlic in a small bowl.
6. After 20 minutes, brush ribs with honey glaze and finish with garlic butter.
7. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Sriracha BBQ Ribs with Lime Zest
Get ready to elevate your barbecue game with these bold and tangy ribs! This recipe combines the spicy kick of sriracha with the brightness of lime zest, creating a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lime zest, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sriracha sauce, BBQ sauce, honey, lime juice, and cumin.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and slather with the spicy glaze.
4. Place ribs on grill or baking sheet and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender.
5. Brush with additional glaze during last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with lime zest before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Slow-Cooked Bourbon BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful slow-cooked bourbon BBQ ribs!
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 onion, sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and apply the spice mixture evenly.
4. Place the ribs in the slow cooker, bone side down.
5. Add sliced onion on top of the ribs.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon whiskey and BBQ sauce.
7. Pour the bourbon-BBQ mixture over the ribs and onions.
8. Cook for 8-10 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Maple Brown Sugar BBQ Ribs with Cinnamon
Sweet and smoky, these Maple Brown Sugar BBQ Ribs with Cinnamon are a unique twist on classic ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-low heat (275°F).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon, and smoked paprika.
3. Remove membrane from the back of the ribs and brush both sides with olive oil.
4. Apply the sugar-mixture evenly across the ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Place ribs on grill and close lid. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. During last 15 minutes of cooking, brush with apple cider vinegar.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Tangy Mustard BBQ Ribs with Apple Cider Vinegar
A twist on classic BBQ ribs, this recipe combines the tanginess of mustard and apple cider vinegar for a unique flavor profile. Perfect for your next backyard gathering or casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/2 cup Tangy Mustard BBQ Sauce (see below)
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Tangy Mustard BBQ Sauce:
– 1/2 cup whole-grain mustard
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Tangy Mustard BBQ Sauce ingredients.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs; season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
4. Brush both sides of ribs with apple cider vinegar; let sit for 15 minutes.
5. Grill ribs for 20-25 minutes per side, or until tender and caramelized.
6. During last 10 minutes of grilling, brush Tangy Mustard BBQ Sauce on both sides of ribs.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Smoked BBQ Ribs with Pineapple Jalapeño Glaze
Transform your backyard gatherings with this sweet and spicy twist on classic BBQ ribs. Smoky flavors meld with a tangy pineapple jalapeño glaze for a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1 cup BBQ rub
– 1 cup wood chips (your choice of hickory, apple, or cherry)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, pineapple juice, ketchup, honey, and chopped jalapeño.
3. Apply BBQ rub evenly to both racks of ribs.
4. Place ribs in smoker for 4 hours or until tender.
5. Brush glaze on ribs during last 30 minutes of cooking time.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-1/2 hours
Korean-Style BBQ Ribs with Gochujang Sauce
This recipe combines the sweet and savory flavors of Korean cuisine with the tender, fall-off-the-bone texture of classic BBQ ribs. The addition of gochujang sauce gives it a spicy kick that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup gochujang paste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Add the ribs to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the ribs from the marinade and place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
7. Brush with additional gochujang sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs with Molasses
Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs with Molasses Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with these tender and juicy ribs slathered in a sweet and tangy molasses-based BBQ sauce!
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs.
3. Season the ribs with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
4. Bake the ribs for 2 hours or until tender.
5. In a small saucepan, combine molasses, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Remove the ribs from the oven and brush with the BBQ sauce. Return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes or until caramelized.
7. Let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10-15 minutes
Cherry Cola BBQ Ribs with a Smoky Finish
Experience the sweet and tangy fusion of cherry cola and BBQ sauce on tender pork ribs, finished with a smoky glaze. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup cherry cola
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cherry cola, ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and apply the cherry cola glaze evenly.
4. Bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the BBQ sauce by heating it in a saucepan over low heat with wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional).
6. Brush the ribs with the smoky BBQ sauce during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan BBQ Ribs with Herb Butter
Transform your BBQ ribs into a rich and savory masterpiece by infusing them with the flavors of garlic, parmesan, and fresh herbs. This recipe combines the tender texture of slow-cooked ribs with the tangy zing of herb butter.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup garlic parmesan rub (see below)
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic Parmesan Rub:
– 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons minced garlic
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Apply the garlic parmesan rub evenly to both racks of ribs.
3. Grill ribs for 30 minutes, or until caramelized and slightly charred.
4. Brush with BBQ sauce during last 10 minutes of grilling.
5. While ribs are cooking, mix softened butter with chopped parsley and minced garlic.
6. Serve grilled ribs with herb butter on the side.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caribbean Jerk BBQ Ribs with Mango Salsa
Get ready to transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with this flavorful fusion of sweet and savory. This recipe combines the classic barbecue ribs with the bold flavors of jerk seasoning, topped off with a refreshing mango salsa.
Ingredients:
For the ribs:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Remove membrane from ribs; apply jerk mixture evenly to both sides of the ribs.
4. Grill ribs for 2-3 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and honey in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled ribs with mango salsa on the side.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Texas-Style BBQ Ribs with a Bold Dry Rub
Get ready to fire up your grill and transport yourself to the heart of Texas with these mouthwatering BBQ ribs smothered in a bold dry rub. This recipe combines the perfect balance of spices, herbs, and heat to create a truly unforgettable flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds total)
– 1 cup Bold Dry Rub (see below)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Bold Dry Rub:
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-low heat (275°F).
2. Remove membrane from back of ribs.
3. Apply Bold Dry Rub evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place ribs on grill and cook for 2 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. Finish with a glaze made from brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (optional).
6. Rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
BBQ Ribs with a Peach Whiskey Glaze
Transform tender pork ribs into a mouthwatering masterpiece with this BBQ Ribs recipe, elevated by a tangy Peach Whiskey Glaze. Perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup peach whiskey (or substitute with bourbon or whiskey)
– 2 peaches, diced
Instructions:
1. Preheat the grill to medium-low heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the ribs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover with plastic wrap; refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the ribs from the marinade; let excess liquid drip off.
5. Grill the ribs for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender.
6. In a small saucepan, combine peach whiskey and diced peaches. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
7. Brush the glaze onto the ribs during the last 10 minutes of grilling.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours (including marinating time)
Smoked Ribs with a Coffee Ancho Chili Rub
Elevate your barbecue game with this bold and savory recipe that combines the richness of smoked ribs with the depth of coffee ancho chili rub. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup coffee ancho chili rub (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the coffee ancho chili rub, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Apply the chili rub mixture evenly to both sides of the ribs.
5. Place the ribs in the smoker and cook for 8 hours or until tender and caramelized.
6. Remove the ribs from the smoker and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
BBQ Ribs with a Sweet Chili and Ginger Glaze
Get ready to fall in love with these tender and tangy BBQ ribs smothered in a sweet chili and ginger glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, chili flakes, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Remove membrane from ribs (optional) and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the sweet chili glaze all over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Bake for 2 hours or until tender.
6. During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush with apple cider vinegar and water mixture to add a tangy touch.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Apple Butter BBQ Ribs with Cider Reduction
A twist on classic BBQ ribs, this recipe combines the richness of apple butter with the tanginess of cider reduction. The result is a sweet and smoky glaze that’s perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup apple butter
– 1/4 cup cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together apple butter, cider vinegar, brown sugar, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and place on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the glaze evenly over both racks of ribs.
5. Bake for 2 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
6. Reduce heat to 200°F (90°C) and bake an additional 30 minutes.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with thyme leaves. Let cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
BBQ Ribs with a Spicy Bourbon BBQ Sauce
Get ready to elevate your BBQ game with this mouth-watering recipe featuring tender pork ribs smothered in a spicy bourbon BBQ sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup Spicy Bourbon BBQ Sauce (recipe below)
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Spicy Bourbon BBQ Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Place the ribs on the grill or smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Brush the Spicy Bourbon BBQ Sauce onto the ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in the rich flavors of smoky BBQ ribs! This article presents 18 mouth-watering recipes that will elevate your grilling game. From classic dry rubs to sweet and sticky glazes, spicy sauces, and tangy mustards, there’s something for everyone. Discover unique flavor combinations like Korean-style gochujang sauce, Caribbean jerk seasoning, and Texas-style bold dry rub. Whether you’re a BBQ newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes will guide you in creating the perfect, fall-off-the-bone ribs that are sure to impress.
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