These Fall Off The Bone Ribs are a barbecue lover’s dream! With their sweet and smoky flavor, they’ll have everyone coming back for seconds at your next cookout.
Who doesn’t love tender ribs that practically hug the bone? I always keep some napkins handy, because things can get a little messy—and that’s part of the fun! 😂
Grilling them is a breeze too! Just slather on your favorite sauce, and let the grill work its magic. You’ll impress your friends without breaking a sweat! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These ribs are tender and flavorful. If you can’t find baby back ribs, St. Louis-style ribs or spare ribs will work, but they may take longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick. You can swap it with vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even melted butter for a richer flavor.
Spices (Paprika, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder): These are essential for flavor. For a smoky twist, use smoked paprika. If you’re out of garlic or onion powder, fresh garlic and onion can be finely minced and added instead.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the ribs. If you’re avoiding sugar, try using honey or a sugar substitute like coconut sugar.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce to enhance the ribs. For a healthier option, look for low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauces. Don’t be afraid to get creative with flavors!
How Do I Remove the Membrane for Tender Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial for tenderness and flavor absorption. This thin layer can make the meat chewy if left on. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the ribs so the bone side is facing up.
- Use a knife to slide under one edge of the membrane to get it started.
- Grab the membrane with a paper towel for a better grip, and slowly pull it off. It should come off in one piece; if not, reinsert the knife and try again.
Take your time with this step; it makes a big difference! Once it’s off, you can proceed with seasoning the ribs for that perfect flavor.
How to Make 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 Spice Rub:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep and seasoning, plus 3 to 4 hours for grilling. With some patience and love, you’ll unlock ribs that literally fall off the bone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Ribs:
Start by preheating your grill to indirect heat, aiming for a temperature between 225°F to 250°F. This low and slow cooking method is key! Next, gently remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This step helps the seasoning penetrate better and results in more tender meat. Just work a knife under the membrane and peel it off carefully.
2. Seasoning the Ribs:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). Rub the olive oil all over the ribs to help the spices stick, then generously sprinkle the spice mixture on both sides of the ribs. Make sure to cover every inch for maximum flavor!
3. Grilling the Ribs:
Now it’s time to grill! Lay the ribs on the grill with the bone side facing down. Close the lid and let them cook for about 3 to 4 hours. Keep an eye on the temperature, maintaining that steady heat. You’ll know they’re done when the meat is tender and pulls away from the bones easily.
4. Adding the Sauce:
During the last 30 minutes of grilling, brush your favorite barbecue sauce over the ribs to create a delicious glaze. Don’t forget to close the lid again after saucing—it helps the sauce set beautifully and enhances flavor!
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the ribs are nice and tender and the sauce has caramelized, remove them from the grill and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making every bite extra juicy!
6. Serving It Up:
Slice the ribs between the bones and arrange them on a lovely serving platter. If you’re feeling saucy, drizzle a bit more barbecue sauce on top. Gather your friends and family, and get ready to enjoy these amazing fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Absolutely! Spare ribs are a great substitute and tend to have more meat and flavor. Just keep in mind that they might require a slightly longer cooking time, about 4 to 5 hours, depending on their thickness. Always check for tenderness before serving!
What If I Don’t Have Paprika?
No worries! You can substitute paprika with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or use chili powder for extra heat. Just remember that the flavor profile might change slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
How to Store Leftover Ribs
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, you can reheat them in the oven at 300°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also add a bit more barbecue sauce while reheating to keep them moist!
Can I Prep the Ribs in Advance?
Definitely! You can season the ribs up to a day ahead. Just wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate even more. Bring them to room temperature before grilling for the best results!
