Description
These BBQ Baby Back Ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky-sweet flavor! Slow-cooked until fall-off-the-bone perfect, then finished with a sticky, caramelized BBQ glaze, they’re the ultimate crowd-pleaser for BBQ nights, summer cookouts, or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks (about 4 lbs) baby back ribs
- 1 tbsp olive oil (to help seasoning stick)
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar (adds caramelized sweetness)
- 1 tbsp paprika (smoky flavor)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional, for extra depth)
For the BBQ Sauce (or use store-bought):
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for extra stickiness)
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (adds tanginess)
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (adds umami depth)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ribs
- Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by loosening a corner with a knife and pulling it off with a paper towel. (This makes them more tender!)
- Rub olive oil over the ribs, then coat evenly with the dry rub mixture.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Ribs (Oven Method)
- Wrap ribs tightly in foil and place on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender but not falling apart.
(Alternative: Use a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.)
Step 3: Glaze & Caramelize the Ribs
- Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat (400°F/200°C).
- Unwrap the ribs and brush generously with BBQ sauce mixture.
- Grill (or broil) for 5-10 minutes, flipping and basting with extra sauce, until glazed and caramelized.
Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes, then slice between the bones.
- Serve with extra BBQ sauce, coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans!
Notes
- No Grill? Broil ribs for 5 minutes on high instead.
- Smoky Flavor? Add 1 tsp liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
- Make Ahead: Cook ribs a day ahead, refrigerate, then reheat and glaze on the grill.