These fall-off-the-bone ribs are a treat for any BBQ lover! Cooked on the grill, they are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. Just wait for that tasty crust!
Every time I make these, I can’t resist sneaking a little bite while they cook. Who can blame me? They smell amazing! 🍖 My favorite part? They’re easy to whip up and perfect for gatherings!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ribs: Baby back ribs are perfect for this recipe due to their tenderness. If they aren’t available, spare ribs work too, although they take a bit longer to cook. You can also try lamb ribs for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This helps the rub stick to the ribs. If you’re avoiding oil, you can use a small amount of mustard or even apple juice for a unique touch!
Spices: Paprika and cayenne pepper give great flavor and color. If you’re out of cayenne, try chili powder or smoked paprika. I often add more garlic powder for an extra kick!
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for glazing. If you want something lighter, try a vinegar-based sauce. You can even make your own by mixing ketchup, vinegar, and spices if you’re feeling adventurous.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from the Ribs?
Removing the membrane is key for better flavor and texture. It can be tough and chewy, so getting rid of it is a good move. Here’s how:
- Use a small knife to lift the edge of the membrane at one end of the rack.
- Grab the membrane with your fingers or a paper towel for better grip.
- Slowly pull it off, applying steady pressure. It should come off in one piece.
Packing the dry rub directly onto the meat is much easier when the membrane is gone. Trust me; it makes a difference!
How Can I Get That Perfect Grill Temperature?
Grilling ribs at the right temperature is crucial. Here’s how to ensure you maintain those low and slow cooking conditions:
- Preheat your grill to around 250°F to 275°F. Use a grill thermometer for accuracy.
- If using charcoal, place the coals on one side for indirect heat. This way, the ribs cook evenly without burning.
- If you have a gas grill, turn on only the burners on one side and place the ribs on the other side.
Maintaining the temperature takes patience, but it results in those tender, juicy ribs we all love!
Fall Off The Bone Ribs On The Grill
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
For Glazing:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- Optional: additional BBQ sauce for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 2.5 to 3 hours for cooking on the grill. Give yourself enough time to enjoy the grilling process and the tasty results!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ribs:
Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. Use a knife to slide under the membrane, then grab it with your hands and pull it off. This step is important for getting tender, flavorful ribs!
2. Make the Dry Rub:
In a bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine into a dry rub that will flavor the ribs beautifully.
3. Season the Ribs:
Drizzle the olive oil over the ribs to help the dry rub stick better. Rub the mixture generously onto both sides of each rack of ribs, getting into every nook and cranny for maximum flavor.
4. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to a medium heat of about 250°F to 275°F. If you’re using a charcoal grill, set it up for indirect cooking for the best results.
5. Cook the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs bone-side down on the grill. Let them cook for about 2 to 3 hours, maintaining the grill temperature. If you have wood chips, toss them on the grill for an extra smoky flavor!
6. Baste with BBQ Sauce:
After about 2 hours, it’s time to brush on some BBQ sauce. Keep grilling for another 30 minutes to an hour, basting with more BBQ sauce every 15 minutes. This helps create that beautiful caramelized crust on the outside.
7. Check for Doneness:
Your ribs are ready when the meat pulls away from the bone easily and they have a lovely deep color. That’s when you know you’ve got fall-off-the-bone goodness!
8. Rest and Serve:
Once off the grill, let the ribs rest for about 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat. Then, slice between the bones to serve.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your ribs with additional BBQ sauce on the side if desired. Get ready to dig into these flavorful, fall-off-the-bone ribs! Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are a great choice 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 typically requiring a bit longer due to their thicker meat.
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! You can adjust the spice blend based on what you have. For example, if you’re out of onion powder, try using a bit of minced fresh onion instead. You can also use a store-bought rib rub if you’re short on time or ingredients!
Can I Make These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Yes, you can! For oven cooking, preheat your oven to 300°F. Wrapped tightly in foil, rib racks should bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours on a baking sheet. Uncover, baste with BBQ sauce, and then broil for a few minutes to get that nice caramelization—just watch closely so they don’t burn!
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the ribs wrapped tightly in foil for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm in a low oven or on the grill with a splash of BBQ sauce to keep them moist.
