These fall-off-the-bone ribs on the grill are everything you need for a perfect cookout. With tasty spices and a bit of barbecue sauce, they become a crowd favorite!
There’s nothing like the feeling of biting into tender, juicy ribs. It’s messy, fun, and totally worth it! I can never resist grabbing a few extra for leftovers. Yum! 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are perfect for this recipe because they are meaty and tender. If you can’t find baby backs, spare ribs will also work. Just know they might take a bit longer to cook as they are tougher.
BBQ Seasoning: You can use store-bought or make your own. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and some chili powder is great. If you’re avoiding sugar, a spice blend without sugar can add good flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds acidity and helps tenderize the meat. If you don’t have it, white vinegar or lemon juice can work as substitutes. Just use a little less vinegar, as these can be more potent.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps caramelize the ribs. If you want a healthier twist, try coconut sugar or even maple syrup for a different flavor.
How Do I Achieve Tender Ribs on the Grill?
Cooking ribs so they fall off the bone is all in the technique and patience! Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs—this really helps the ribs cook evenly and absorb flavors.
- After applying the dry rub, let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps penetrate the flavors.
- When cooking, use indirect heat—this means keeping the ribs away from direct flames to avoid burning. Maintain a steady temperature between 225°F and 250°F.
- Don’t skip spritzing the ribs! That apple cider vinegar mixture keeps them moist and helps develop a great bark.
Finally, for that caramelized finish, move the ribs to the hotter side of the grill for the last few minutes with a layer of BBQ sauce. It’s not just about cooking time, but also about maintaining moisture and heat for the perfect bite!
Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 3 racks of baby back ribs
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dry Rub:
- 1 cup of your favorite BBQ seasoning (dry rub)
- 1/2 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tbsp of paprika
- 1 tbsp of garlic powder
- 1 tbsp of onion powder
- 1 tsp of cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Moisture and Glazing:
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup of BBQ sauce (for glazing)
- 2 tbsp of honey
Extras:
- Wood chips for smoking (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This BBQ ribs recipe takes about 30 minutes for preparation and around 3 hours of cooking time. Don’t forget to let the ribs rest for 10-15 minutes before digging in. So, you’re looking at around 3.5 hours total for this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ribs:
Start by removing the tough membrane from the back of each rack of ribs. This helps the flavors soak in better. Trim any excess fat, then rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. This ensures a good surface for the dry rub to stick to.
2. Apply the Dry Rub:
In a bowl, combine the BBQ seasoning, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Generously rub this mixture all over the ribs, making sure they’re completely coated. For the best taste, let the ribs sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes, or refrigerate for a few hours to let the flavors deepen.
3. Preheat the Grill:
It’s time to prepare your grill for indirect cooking. If you have a charcoal grill, light the coals and wait until they’re ashy before moving them to one side of the grill. If using a gas grill, turn on just one side of the burners to create indirect heat. This will keep the ribs from burning while they cook low and slow.
4. Add Moisture:
Mix the apple cider vinegar with a bit of water in a spray bottle or a bowl. This mixture will help keep the ribs nice and moist throughout the cooking process. A little moisture goes a long way!
5. Cook the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the cool side of the grill, with the bone side facing down. If you’re using wood chips, soak them in water for about 30 minutes, then add them to your coals for that yummy smoky flavor. Close the grill lid and cook the ribs for about 3 hours, keeping the grill temperature between 225°F – 250°F. Every 30 minutes, give the ribs a quick spray with the apple cider vinegar mixture to keep them moist and flavorful.
6. Glaze the Ribs:
After 3 hours have passed, it’s time to add some BBQ sauce! Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the ribs. If you want to create a delightful caramelized finish, move the ribs over to the hot side of the grill for the last 15-20 minutes, turning them occasionally and adding more BBQ sauce as they cook.
7. Check for Doneness:
Your ribs are ready when the meat has pulled back from the bone, and a toothpick slides easily between the bones. Aim for an internal temperature of about 190°F – 203°F for that tender, fall-off-the-bone experience!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once cooked, take the ribs off the grill and let them rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps to keep all those juicy flavors intact. Slice them up, serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side, and get ready to enjoy your delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Absolutely! Spare ribs can be used, but keep in mind they might require a bit more cooking time because they are thicker. Make sure to check for doneness using the same signs: the meat pulling back from the bone and an internal temperature of 190°F – 203°F.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Cider Vinegar?
If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, you can substitute it with white vinegar, red wine vinegar, or even lemon juice for a similar tang. Just remember that each will slightly alter the flavor profile, so choose based on your taste preference!
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or on the grill over low heat until warmed through. If you add a bit of BBQ sauce or apple cider vinegar while reheating, it helps maintain moisture!
Can I Cook These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can cook the ribs in the oven! Preheat your oven to 275°F and wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours until tender, then brush with BBQ sauce and broil for a few minutes for that caramelized finish.
