Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in some fall-off-the-bone tender baby back ribs! Whether you’re a seasoned grilling enthusiast or just looking for a new twist on a classic dish, we’ve got you covered with these 18 mouth-watering recipes that will elevate your barbecue game. From sweet and sticky glazes to spicy and smoky flavors, each of these dishes is designed to bring out the best in baby back ribs.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring the most delicious and innovative ways to prepare baby back ribs. From classic BBQ flavors to international twists and creative sauces, we’ve gathered the ultimate collection of recipes that will make your taste buds do the happy dance. So grab your apron, fire up your grill, and get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously tender and flavorful baby back ribs!
Honey Garlic Glazed Baby Back Ribs
Sweet and savory, these baby back ribs are slathered in a sticky honey garlic glaze that will leave your taste buds singing. Perfect for a casual dinner or as an impressive show-stopper at your next barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, garlic, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone-side down.
5. Brush glaze evenly over ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the top of the ribs.
7. Bake for 2 hours and 15 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Smoky BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with these tender and flavorful baby back ribs smothered in a rich, tangy BBQ sauce. This recipe is perfect for a summer cookout or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup Smoky BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup wood chips (hickory or apple work well)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F or your oven to 275°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack (if present).
4. Apply the dry rub evenly to both racks of ribs.
5. Place the ribs in the smoker or oven for 4-5 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. During the last 30 minutes, brush with Smoky BBQ Sauce.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Spicy Sriracha Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to level up your BBQ game with these tender and spicy ribs, smothered in a tangy Sriracha glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, honey, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rib rack. Place ribs on a large baking sheet or grill mat.
4. Brush the Sriracha glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Cook for 2-3 hours or until tender, flipping occasionally.
6. Finish with a blast of high heat (500°F/260°C) for 10-15 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Sticky Maple Bourbon Baby Back Ribs
Sticky Maple Bourbon Baby Back Ribs: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic BBQ Favorite!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Wood chips or chunks for smoking (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, bourbon whiskey, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional).
4. Place the ribs in a large baking dish or tray and brush with the sticky glaze.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Grill or smoke the ribs for 2-3 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Asian-Inspired Five-Spice Baby Back Ribs
Discover the harmonious fusion of East meets West with these tender and flavorful baby back ribs, infused with a blend of five aromatic spices. Perfect for your next gathering or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons five-spice powder
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, five-spice powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove membrane from ribs; pat dry with paper towels.
4. Brush both sides of ribs with the spice mixture; let sit for 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Bake ribs for 2 hours and 15 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. If desired, brush with hoisin sauce during last 10 minutes of cooking.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Coca-Cola Baby Back Ribs
Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs infused with the rich flavor of Coca-Cola and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks baby back ribs
– 1 cup Coca-Cola
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Coca-Cola, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs (this will help the rub penetrate).
4. Place the racks in the slow cooker, bone-side down. Pour the Coca-Cola mixture over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
6. Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and let them rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your barbecue game with this sweet and tangy twist on classic baby back ribs. The combination of brown sugar, pineapple juice, and a hint of soy sauce creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks baby back ribs
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs (optional).
4. Place the ribs on the grill, bone-side down.
5. Brush the ribs with the glaze every 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
6. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cajun-Spiced Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the bold flavors of Louisiana as you experience the magic of these tender and spicy baby back ribs. This recipe combines the perfect blend of Cajun spices, brown sugar, and a hint of smokiness to create a mouth-watering masterpiece.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and season with salt.
4. Apply the spice mixture evenly across both racks of ribs.
5. Place the ribs in a large baking dish, bone-side down.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar and water.
7. Pour the vinegar mixture over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
8. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
9. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Brown Sugar and Mustard Glazed Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with this sweet and tangy glaze featuring brown sugar and mustard, perfect for fall-off-the-bone tender baby back ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Remove ribs from packaging and place on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
4. Brush the glaze evenly onto both sides of the ribs.
5. Sprinkle smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 2 hours or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Korean Gochujang Baby Back Ribs
Experience the bold flavors of Korea with these sweet and spicy baby back ribs smothered in a gochujang-based glaze. Perfect for a crowd-pleasing main course or game-day gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
3. Add the baby back ribs to the marinade, making sure they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 2 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Garlic Parmesan Baby Back Ribs
Garlic Parmesan Baby Back Ribs Recipe:
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup barbecue sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the ribs.
4. Bake for 2 hours, or until tender and slightly charred.
5. While ribs are baking, combine Parmesan cheese with 1/4 cup barbecue sauce in a small bowl.
6. After 2 hours, remove ribs from oven and brush with the garlic-Parmesan mixture.
7. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Apple Cider Vinegar Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with this mouthwatering recipe that combines the sweetness of apple cider vinegar with the tenderizing power of baby back ribs. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weekend gathering or a casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the baby back ribs to the marinade and toss to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off. Grill or bake the ribs for 2-1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Cherry Cola Glazed Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, juicy baby back ribs smothered in a sweet and tangy cherry cola glaze. This recipe is perfect for a weekend BBQ or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1 cup cherry cola
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cherry cola, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Remove membrane from the back of each rack of ribs. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the glaze.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove foil and continue to bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Jerk-Spiced Baby Back Ribs
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering Jerk-Spiced Baby Back Ribs recipe, perfect for a BBQ or casual dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Add the garlic and ginger to the mixture; stir well.
4. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended for easier glazing).
5. Apply the jerk spice mixture evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated.
6. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, bone-side down.
7. Bake for 2 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Balsamic Glazed Baby Back Ribs
Tender and sweet, these baby back ribs are elevated to new heights with a rich balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended for tenderization).
4. Place the ribs on a large baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.
6. Cover the baking sheet with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the glaze is caramelized and the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2.5 hours
Peach BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Savor the perfect blend of sweet peaches and tangy barbecue sauce on tender baby back ribs. This recipe is a summer BBQ must-have!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup peach preserves
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and apply the peach BBQ sauce mixture evenly, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place ribs on grill and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and caramelized.
5. Brush with additional BBQ sauce during last 10 minutes of cooking.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Teriyaki Baby Back Ribs
Perfectly glazed with a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, these baby back ribs are a crowd-pleaser. This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush teriyaki glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Bake for 2 hours or until tender and caramelized.
6. Increase oven temperature to broil (500°F/260°C) for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until glaze is bubbly and slightly charred.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes
Lemon Pepper Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with these tangy and flavorful Lemon Pepper Baby Back Ribs! Tender, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs are infused with a zesty lemon pepper seasoning that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back pork ribs
– 1/4 cup lemon pepper seasoning
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon pepper seasoning, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs (optional but recommended for easier cooking).
4. Brush the lemon pepper mixture evenly onto both sides of the ribs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
7. Cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in tender, juicy baby back ribs with these 18 mouth-watering recipes. From classic BBQ flavors to international inspirations, this collection has something for every taste bud. Try Honey Garlic Glazed Baby Back Ribs, Smoky BBQ Baby Back Ribs, or Spicy Sriracha Baby Back Ribs for a spicy kick. Or, opt for sweet and tangy flavors like Sticky Maple Bourbon Baby Back Ribs or Sweet and Tangy Pineapple Baby Back Ribs. Whatever your preference, these baby back ribs are sure to satisfy your cravings.