I’ve made this BBQ Ribs Recipe many times, and they never fail to impress. Every bite is tender, juicy, and packed with sweet-savory flavor. The first time I served them, everyone asked for seconds before I even sat down. What I love most is how simple ingredients transform into something truly special.
If you’re craving classic barbecue flavor, this recipe is for you. For a sweet dessert idea to serve after this meal, you might enjoy strawberry cheesecake lasagna recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds pork spareribs – Choose fresh, well-marbled ribs for the best tenderness and flavor.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a rich caramelized glaze.
- ½ cup chile sauce – Provides tangy depth with mild spice.
- ¼ cup ketchup – Balances the sauce with classic tomato flavor.
- ¼ cup soy sauce – Brings savory umami and enhances overall taste.
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce – Adds complexity and a slightly tangy richness.
- ¼ cup rum (optional) – Gives extra depth and warmth; can be replaced with apple juice or more ketchup.
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed – Fresh garlic delivers stronger, brighter flavor than powdered.
- 1 teaspoon dry mustard – Adds subtle sharpness and boosts the sauce profile.
- 1 dash ground black pepper – Freshly ground pepper improves aroma and taste.
- Cooking spray – Helps prevent sticking while baking or grilling.
Note: Serves 8 people generously.
Variations
- Sugar-free option: Replace brown sugar with a natural sugar substitute like monk fruit or allulose.
- Alcohol-free version: Skip the rum and replace it with apple juice or extra ketchup.
- Spicy ribs: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for heat.
- Smoky flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce if you want deeper barbecue taste.
- Low-sodium version: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce to control salt levels.
- If you enjoy bold, savory meal ideas, you may also like italian grinder sliders recipe.
Cooking Time
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: About 2 hours
• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours 15 minutes
Equipment You Need
• Oven or Grill – Main cooking method for tender ribs.
• Large Roasting Pan – Holds ribs while baking.
• Aluminum Foil – Keeps moisture locked in during cooking.
• Mixing Bowl – For preparing the barbecue sauce.
• Basting Brush – Helps apply sauce evenly.
How to Make BBQ Ribs Recipe
Preparing the Ribs
Start by trimming excess fat and removing the thin membrane on the back of the ribs. This step helps the seasoning absorb better and ensures tender results. Pat the ribs dry before seasoning or marinating. Proper preparation sets the foundation for great flavor.
Making the Sauce
In a bowl, combine brown sugar, chile sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, rum (if using), garlic, mustard, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended. The mixture should look thick and glossy. This sauce gives the ribs their signature sweet and savory flavor.
Baking the Ribs
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ribs in a foil-lined pan and coat with sauce. Cover tightly with foil to keep moisture inside and bake until tender. Slow cooking ensures juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
Finishing and Glazing
Remove the foil during the last stage of cooking. Brush generously with additional sauce. Return to the oven or place on the grill to caramelize the glaze. This step creates that sticky barbecue finish everyone loves.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
• I always marinate the ribs for several hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
• I prefer using freshly crushed garlic instead of powdered for stronger taste.
• Basting the ribs multiple times during cooking makes the glaze richer and thicker.
• If possible, I finish them on a hot grill for a lightly charred edge.
• Letting the ribs rest for 10 minutes before cutting keeps them juicy.
How to Serve BBQ Ribs Recipe
Serve ribs hot on a large platter for a classic presentation. Garnish with chopped parsley for color contrast. Pair with traditional sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, or potato salad. Offer extra barbecue sauce on the side. For a beautiful touch, slice between bones and stack them neatly before serving.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
• Calories: About 500–520 kcal – A hearty and satisfying dish.
• Protein: Around 30g – Great source of protein.
• Carbohydrates: About 23g – Mainly from the sauce.
• Fat: Around 30g – Provides richness and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh for up to 4 days. The flavor often improves after resting overnight.
Freezing
Wrap cooled ribs tightly in foil or freezer-safe packaging. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with the date for best quality.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 300°F until warmed through. Add a little extra sauce or water to keep them moist. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
Here’s why this BBQ ribs recipe will become a favorite:
• Easy preparation: Simple ingredients and clear steps make it beginner-friendly. The process is straightforward and stress-free.
• Incredible flavor: Sweet, tangy, smoky, and savory notes blend perfectly in every bite.
• Great for gatherings: Ideal for family dinners, cookouts, and special occasions. It’s always a crowd-pleaser.
• Customizable: You can adjust sweetness, spice level, or add smoky flavor easily. It fits many preferences.
• Tender results: Slow cooking ensures juicy ribs that are soft and satisfying.
This BBQ ribs recipe delivers everything you want in classic barbecue — sticky glaze, deep flavor, and tender meat. It’s simple enough for beginners yet impressive enough for guests. Once you try it, it will quickly become one of your go-to comfort food recipes. Enjoy every delicious bite! 🍖
BBQ Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Start by trimming excess fat and removing the thin membrane on the back of the ribs. This step helps the seasoning absorb better and ensures tender results. Pat the ribs dry before seasoning or marinating. Proper preparation sets the foundation for great flavor.
- In a bowl, combine brown sugar, chile sauce, ketchup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, rum (if using), garlic, mustard, and black pepper. Whisk until smooth and well blended. The mixture should look thick and glossy. This sauce gives the ribs their signature sweet and savory flavor.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ribs in a foil-lined pan and coat with sauce. Cover tightly with foil to keep moisture inside and bake until tender. Slow cooking ensures juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
- Remove the foil during the last stage of cooking. Brush generously with additional sauce. Return to the oven or place on the grill to caramelize the glaze. This step creates that sticky barbecue finish everyone loves.
Notes
- I always marinate the ribs for several hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- I prefer using freshly crushed garlic instead of powdered for stronger taste.
- Basting the ribs multiple times during cooking makes the glaze richer and thicker.
- If possible, I finish them on a hot grill for a lightly charred edge.
- Letting the ribs rest for 10 minutes before cutting keeps them juicy.
