The sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors of BBQ ribs – what’s not to love? Whether you’re a grill master or just looking for a delicious summer meal, these 18 smoky BBQ ribs recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic St. Louis style to international twists like Korean gochujang and Jamaican jerk, we’ve got the perfect recipe for every palate.
Get ready to fire up the grill and get saucy with our ultimate list of BBQ ribs recipes. We’ll take you on a culinary journey from sweet and tangy Carolina-style ribs to spicy chipotle and smoky Texas-style beef ribs. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, we’ve got the perfect recipe to make your taste buds do the happy dance.
Classic St. Louis Style BBQ Ribs
A true Midwestern classic, these tender and tangy ribs are a staple of St. Louis-style barbecue. This recipe yields fall-off-the-bone results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup St. Louis-style BBQ rub (see below for recipe or use store-bought)
– 1/4 cup white vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
St. Louis-Style BBQ Rub:
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon onion powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 tablespoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together BBQ rub, white vinegar, water, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Remove membrane from ribs (if present).
4. Apply the dry rub evenly to both racks of ribs.
5. Place ribs on grill, bone side down. Close lid and cook for 2 hours.
6. Flip ribs; cook an additional 30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Honey Garlic Glazed BBQ Ribs
Honey Garlic Glazed BBQ Ribs
A sweet and savory twist on classic BBQ ribs, these honey garlic glazed ribs are a crowd-pleaser. With the perfect balance of sticky glaze and tender meat, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, and 1 tablespoon of BBQ sauce.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs (if present) and season with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
4. Place ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the honey glaze, making sure to coat all surfaces evenly.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until meat is tender and caramelized.
7. Brush with remaining BBQ sauce during last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Spicy Chipotle BBQ Ribs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Spicy Chipotle BBQ Ribs! A perfect combination of tender meat, spicy kick, and sweet barbecue sauce will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix chipotle peppers, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and apply the chipotle mixture evenly, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
5. Brush with BBQ sauce and return to oven for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Memphis Dry Rub Ribs
Slow-Cooked Memphis Dry Rub Ribs: A Classic Southern Delight
This recipe brings you the authentic flavors of Memphis-style dry rub ribs, slow-cooked to tender perfection. The secret lies in the blend of spices and herbs that create a rich, savory crust on the outside, while keeping the meat fall-apart tender.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup Memphis-style dry rub (see below for recipe)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the dry rub ingredients.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs.
4. Coat each rack evenly with the Memphis-style dry rub, making sure to cover all surfaces.
5. Place the coated ribs in the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly over the ribs.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Bourbon Infused BBQ Ribs
Bourbon Infused BBQ Ribs Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Kentucky’s finest bourbon as it infuses tender BBQ ribs with a depth of smoky sweetness. This recipe is perfect for a summer gathering or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup Bourbon-infused BBQ sauce (see below for ingredients)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together bourbon-infused BBQ sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone-side down.
4. Brush the bourbon-infused glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Cover the ribs with foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Bourbon-Infused BBQ Sauce Ingredients:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Asian-Inspired Sticky BBQ Ribs
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Asian flavors with these tender and sticky BBQ ribs. A perfect blend of East meets West, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef back ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and place them in a large baking dish.
4. Brush the rib sides with sesame oil and sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Pour the sticky BBQ glaze over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Texas-Style Smoked Beef Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with these tender and flavorful Texas-style smoked beef ribs. This recipe is perfect for a low-and-slow BBQ cookout or a backyard gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef ribs
– 1 cup beef rub (see below)
– 1 cup wood chips (post oak, mesquite, or a combination)
– 1 cup liquid smoke
– 1 cup beer (optional)
Beef Rub:
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the beef rub ingredients.
3. Apply the beef rub evenly to both sides of the ribs.
4. Place the ribs in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 8 hours or overnight.
5. After 6 hours, add wood chips and liquid smoke as needed.
6. Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Apple Cider Braised BBQ Ribs
Experience the perfect blend of fall flavors and classic BBQ with these tender, juicy ribs. A hint of apple cider adds a surprising depth to the rich, sweet, and tangy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine apple cider, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Meanwhile, season ribs with salt and pepper.
5. Place ribs in a large baking dish and pour apple cider glaze over them.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and braise for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue cooking for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Maple Mustard Glazed Ribs
Sweet and tangy, these maple mustard glazed ribs are a perfect blend of flavors. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this will help the glaze stick).
4. Place the ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Korean Gochujang BBQ Ribs
Get ready for a sweet and spicy twist on traditional BBQ ribs with this easy recipe that combines the bold flavors of Korean gochujang paste with tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef or pork ribs
– 1/4 cup gochujang paste
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together gochujang paste, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, sesame oil, and ginger.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and place them in a large baking dish.
4. Brush the gochujang glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 2.5 hours
Pineapple Teriyaki BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors! These Pineapple Teriyaki BBQ Ribs are a unique twist on traditional BBQ ribs, adding a tropical twist from the pineapple and teriyaki sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/2 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic.
3. Remove membrane from ribs; season with salt and pepper.
4. Place ribs in a large baking dish; brush with olive oil.
5. Brush the teriyaki glaze over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil; increase oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15-20 minutes
Brown Sugar and Bourbon BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with this mouthwatering recipe for Brown Sugar and Bourbon BBQ Ribs. The perfect blend of sweet and tangy, these ribs are sure to impress your friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (4-5 lbs)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with olive oil.
5. Brush the rib mixture evenly onto both racks of ribs.
6. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Smoked Paprika and Coffee Rubbed Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with this bold and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of coffee with the depth of smoked paprika. Perfect for a weekend cookout or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef ribs
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons instant coffee powder
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, coffee powder, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and brush with olive oil.
4. Generously apply the rub mixture to both sides of the ribs.
5. Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Finish under broiler for an additional 2-3 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 2-3 minutes
Jamaican Jerk Spiced BBQ Ribs
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with these succulent ribs infused with a blend of aromatic spices and sweet barbecue sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs. Place the ribs on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Sprinkle the jerk spice mixture evenly over both racks of ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Bake for 2 hours or until the meat starts to pull away from the bone.
6. Brush the barbecue sauce over the ribs during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours (including resting time).
Cherry Cola BBQ Ribs
Get ready to fall off your ribs with these mouthwatering Cherry Cola BBQ Ribs! A unique twist on traditional BBQ, the sweet and tangy flavors of cherry cola bring a new dimension to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks pork ribs
– 1/4 cup Cherry Cola
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cherry Cola, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs; place on baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
4. Brush Cherry Cola mixture evenly over both racks of ribs.
5. Bake for 2 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Garlic Parmesan BBQ Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with these tender and flavorful ribs smothered in a rich garlic parmesan sauce. Perfect for a summer cookout or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both racks of ribs.
4. Grill ribs for 20-25 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. While ribs are grilling, combine BBQ sauce and Parmesan cheese in a small bowl.
6. Once ribs are done, brush the garlic parmesan BBQ sauce all over the ribs.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Carolina BBQ Ribs
Sweet and Tangy Carolina BBQ Ribs Recipe
Experience the authentic flavors of the Carolinas with this sweet and tangy take on classic barbecue ribs. Fall-off-the-bone tender, these babies are slathered in a sticky sauce that’s both sweet and tangy.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips or chunks (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Season the ribs with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Wrap the ribs in foil and bake for 2 hours.
4. Remove the ribs from the foil and brush with the sweet and tangy sauce (see below).
5. Return the ribs to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Sweet and Tangy BBQ Sauce:
– Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
Cooking Time: 2 hours, 30 minutes
Fiery Habanero Mango BBQ Ribs
Get ready to spice up your BBQ game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of mango with the heat of habaneros. These ribs are sure to be a hit at your next backyard gathering!
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of pork ribs
– 1/4 cup habanero pepper paste
– 1/4 cup mango chutney
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together habanero paste, mango chutney, BBQ sauce, brown sugar, and smoked paprika.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and slather the spicy glaze evenly onto both racks.
4. Place the ribs on the grill or smoker, bone-side down.
5. Cook for 2 hours, then flip and cook for an additional hour.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill with these 18 mouthwatering smoky BBQ ribs recipes! From classic St. Louis style to innovative twists like Asian-inspired sticky and Jamaican jerk spiced, there’s something for every grilling enthusiast. Discover bold flavors, tender textures, and a whole lot of deliciousness in this collection of must-try recipes.
