These Sticky Glazed BBQ Ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with a rich, smoky-sweet flavor. Slow-cooked to perfection and coated with a caramelized glaze, they make the perfect dish for a backyard barbecue or a comforting weekend meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fall-off-the-bone tenderness – Slow-cooked ribs ensure a juicy, tender bite.
- Perfect balance of flavors – A blend of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite.
- Easy to prepare – Simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process.
- Great for gatherings – A crowd-pleasing dish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pork ribs
- Brown sugar
- Smoked paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Cayenne pepper (optional)
- BBQ sauce
- Honey
- Apple cider vinegar
- Worcestershire sauce
- Dijon mustard
Directions
- Prepare the ribs – Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Make the dry rub – In a bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Season the ribs – Rub the seasoning blend all over the ribs, ensuring an even coating. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes or overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the oven – Set the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Bake the ribs – Wrap the ribs in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
- Make the glaze – In a saucepan, combine BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Simmer until thickened.
- Glaze the ribs – Unwrap the ribs, brush them generously with the glaze, and broil them in the oven for 5-7 minutes until caramelized. Alternatively, finish them on a grill for extra smokiness.
- Serve – Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Glazed Ribs – Add extra cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the glaze.
- Asian-Inspired Ribs – Replace BBQ sauce with hoisin sauce and add a touch of soy sauce and ginger.
- Honey Garlic Ribs – Swap Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce and add minced garlic to the glaze.
- Smoky Bourbon Ribs – Stir in a small amount of bourbon for a rich, deep flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing – Wrap the ribs tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating – Warm the ribs in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, brushing them with extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist.
FAQs
How do I make my ribs more tender?
Slow-cooking at a low temperature and wrapping them in foil helps retain moisture, making them extra tender.
Can I cook these ribs on the grill instead of the oven?
Yes, you can cook them on a grill over indirect heat for 2-3 hours, then glaze and finish them over direct heat.
What’s the best type of ribs to use?
Baby back ribs are tender and cook faster, while spare ribs have more fat and flavor.
How can I get a deeper smoky flavor?
Use smoked paprika in the rub and finish the ribs on a grill with wood chips for extra smokiness.
Can I make these ribs ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake them in advance, refrigerate, and glaze them just before serving.
Do I need to remove the membrane from the ribs?
Yes, removing the membrane ensures the seasonings penetrate better and results in a more tender bite.
What’s the best BBQ sauce for this recipe?
A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce works best, but you can customize it to your preference.
Can I use boneless ribs?
Yes, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them to prevent drying out.
How do I prevent my ribs from drying out?
Cooking them low and slow while keeping them covered helps retain moisture.
What can I serve with BBQ ribs?
Coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, and mac and cheese are great side options.
Conclusion
These Sticky Glazed BBQ Ribs are the perfect combination of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors with a fall-off-the-bone texture. Whether cooked in the oven or on the grill, they are sure to be a hit at any meal. Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying feast