Tender BBQ Ribs (Printable)

Slow-cooked pork ribs with smoky barbecue glaze, perfect for sharing

# What You'll Need:

→ Ribs

01 - 3–4 lbs pork or beef ribs
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Dry Rub

03 - 2 tbsp brown sugar
04 - 1 tbsp smoked paprika
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1 tsp onion powder
07 - 1 tsp ground black pepper
08 - 1 tsp salt
09 - ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

→ Barbecue Sauce

10 - 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
11 - 2 tbsp honey
12 - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

# Step-by-Step Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 300°F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.
02 - Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs, if present. Pat ribs dry with paper towels.
03 - Rub olive oil all over the ribs. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne. Evenly coat the ribs with the dry rub.
04 - Place the ribs on the prepared baking sheet, meat side up. Cover tightly with foil.
05 - Bake for 2–2½ hours, until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bones.
06 - Meanwhile, mix barbecue sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
07 - Remove the ribs from the oven. Increase oven temperature to 425°F or preheat a grill to medium-high heat.
08 - Brush the ribs generously with the barbecue sauce mixture.
09 - Return to the oven uncovered, or place on the grill, and cook for 10–15 minutes, basting once, until caramelized and sticky.
10 - Rest the ribs for 5 minutes, slice between the bones, and serve with extra sauce.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • The dry rub creates a crust that seals in juices while developing layers of flavor
  • That moment when the sauce caramelizes and turns sticky is worth every minute of waiting
  • Leftovers (if they exist) reheat beautifully for next-day sandwiches
02 -
  • Removing that membrane is non-negotiable, as it becomes tough and chewy and blocks flavor absorption
  • The foil seal during baking creates a steam effect that is crucial for tenderness
  • Sauce burns quickly at high heat, so watch closely during the final caramelization stage
03 -
  • Apply the dry rub the night before and refrigerate uncovered for deeper flavor penetration
  • Use a digital thermometer to check doneness, looking for 205°F internally for maximum tenderness
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