These Easy Prize-Winning Baby Back Ribs are the perfect combo of tender meat and sticky, sweet sauce. Just pop them in the oven and let the magic happen!
Honestly, there’s nothing like tearing into a juicy rib at a BBQ. I like to serve mine with coleslaw and cornbread—it’s a meal that really brings everyone together! 🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are the star of the show! If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs work too. They might take a bit longer to cook and can be a little tougher, but they’ll still be delicious.
Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can swap it with coconut sugar or honey. Just keep in mind that honey will make the rub a bit more sticky!
Spices: Paprika and chili powder bring in great flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine. You could even use cayenne if you want it spicier!
Barbecue Sauce: Homemade is great if you have the time, but any store-bought sauce works. I like sweet and tangy options for this recipe.
How Do I Remove the Silver Skin from Ribs?
Removing the silver skin is crucial for tender ribs. This tough membrane can hold in moisture and make for chewier meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the ribs over so the bone side is up.
- Use a butter knife to gently lift a corner of the silver skin.
- Grab it with a paper towel for better grip and pull it off slowly. It should come off in one piece!
Take your time with this step to ensure the best texture for your ribs!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Ribs on the Grill?
Low and slow cooking is the way to go! It allows fat to render and keeps meat juicy. Here’s a simple rundown:
- Preheat to about 225-250°F for indirect cooking.
- Place the ribs on the cooler side of the grill, bone-side down. This prevents burning.
- Close the lid and resist the urge to peek often! Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours for tender results.
Keep an eye on the temperature and use a thermometer for best results. This patience pays off big time!
Easy Prize-Winning Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks baby back ribs (about 2-3 pounds each)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for mop sauce or to add to barbecue sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 30 minutes of prep time, plus around 3 hours of cooking time. You might want to chill the ribs for a few hours with the seasoning, but the cooking process is straightforward and allows you to relax.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
First things first, you need to get your ribs ready! Flip the racks over and use a sharp knife to gently lift one edge of the silver skin membrane that’s on the back of the ribs. Pull it off carefully to expose the meat underneath. This will help make the ribs tender and tasty!
2. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix it up until everything is well combined—this is where all the flavor comes from!
3. Season the Ribs:
Generously rub the dry spice mix all over both sides of the ribs. Make sure every part of the meat is well-coated. For maximum flavor, let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or you can cover and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours. This allows the spices to really soak in!
4. Prepare Your Grill or Smoker:
While your ribs are resting, fire up your grill or smoker! Preheat it to a medium-low heat, aiming for around 225-250°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect heat by placing the coals to one side. If you’re using a gas grill, turn on one side and leave the other side off for cooking with indirect heat.
5. Cook the Ribs Low and Slow:
Once your grill is ready, place the ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill. Close the lid and let them cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Keep an eye on the temperature, making sure it stays between 225-250°F for perfect tenderness.
6. Mop or Spritz (Optional):
Every hour, you can lightly brush the ribs with apple cider vinegar or a mix of apple cider vinegar and water to help keep them moist during the cooking process. This is totally optional, but it does add a little extra flavor!
7. Apply Barbecue Sauce:
After about 2.5 to 3 hours, it’s time to glaze the ribs! Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce on both sides of the ribs. Close the lid and let them cook for another 20 to 30 minutes. You’ll want the sauce to become caramelized and sticky for that perfect finish.
8. Rest and Serve:
Once done, carefully remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making them even juicier. Then, slice between the bones and serve with some extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful, prize-winning baby back ribs with all your favorite sides! Happy grilling! 🍖
FAQ for Easy Prize-Winning Baby Back Ribs
Can I Use a Different Type of Ribs?
Yes! While baby back ribs are ideal for this recipe, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly, with spare ribs generally taking longer to cook due to their size and fat content.
What if I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can simply use regular paprika instead. If you want a touch of smokiness, consider adding a dash of liquid smoke to your dry rub or barbecue sauce.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Allow the ribs to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep well for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for the best texture!
Can I Cook These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! To cook in the oven, preheat it to 300°F (150°C). Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil and cover them with another layer of foil. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, then glaze with barbecue sauce and broil for 5-10 minutes until caramelized!
