
Sticky BBQ Ribs – Tender, Smoky, and Irresistible
Introduction
Get ready to enjoy the ultimate BBQ experience with these sticky BBQ ribs! Slow-cooked until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender, then coated in a sweet and smoky glaze, these ribs are guaranteed to become the star of your next meal. Perfect for a family dinner, backyard barbecue, or special occasion, this easy recipe is packed with flavor.
Ingredients
For the ribs:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the dry rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the barbecue glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C) for low and slow cooking.
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by loosening a corner with a knife, then pulling it off with a paper towel for grip.
- Rub olive oil all over the ribs to help the dry rub adhere.
Step 2: Season the Ribs
- Mix all the dry rub ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
- Generously apply the dry rub to both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat to ensure an even coating.
Step 3: Slow-Cook the Ribs
- Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil to lock in the moisture and flavors.
- Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and starts to pull back from the bones.
Step 4: Make the BBQ Glaze
- While the ribs are baking, combine barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard in a small saucepan.
- Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens slightly. Set aside.
Step 5: Caramelize the Ribs
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, or set your oven to broil.
- Carefully unwrap the ribs and place them on the grill (or on a baking sheet if broiling). Brush the ribs generously with the BBQ glaze.
- Grill or broil for 5–10 minutes, flipping and basting with more glaze, until the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
- Allow the ribs to rest for 5 minutes before slicing them into individual portions.
- Serve warm with extra barbecue sauce and your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, baked potatoes, or cornbread.
Tips for the Best BBQ Ribs
- Don’t skip removing the membrane – it helps the ribs become more tender and flavorful.
- Use freshly made or high-quality barbecue sauce for the best results.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper in the rub.
Conclusion
These sticky BBQ ribs are the perfect blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Whether grilled or broiled, they deliver tender meat with a rich, caramelized glaze that’s impossible to resist. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will become your go-to for mouthwatering BBQ ribs.
Call to Action
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Share your photos and tips in the comments below, or tag us on social media. Save this recipe for your next BBQ craving – it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!