If there’s one recipe I make when craving something hearty, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, it’s these Fall Off The Bone Ribs. The first time I tried this Fall Off The Bone Ribs Recipe, I couldn’t believe how tender they turned out. The meat nearly slid off the bone with a gentle tug, and the homemade barbecue sauce added just the right balance of sweet and tangy.
It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel accomplished in the kitchen but doesn’t require hours of complicated cooking. Trust me, your family and friends will rave about these ribs, and you’ll feel like a barbecue champion after giving this recipe a shot!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
This recipe deserves a special spot in your cooking lineup, and here’s why:
1. Effortless Preparation
You don’t need to be a seasoned pitmaster to nail these ribs. The steps are simple, from applying the rub to smoking and glazing the ribs. Even the homemade barbecue sauce comes together in no time. Plus, the low-and-slow cooking method does all the heavy lifting for you.
2. Perfect for Customizing
One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is. You can tweak the flavors based on your preference. Want it spicier? Add extra cayenne pepper. Prefer a sweeter glaze? Use more brown sugar in the sauce. It’s your recipe, and you get to call the shots.
3. Incredible Taste and Texture
What sets this recipe apart is the unbeatable combo of tender meat, smoky flavor, and a caramelized barbecue glaze. It’s the kind of meal where every bite is packed with flavor, from the beautifully seasoned rub to the sticky, finger-licking sauce.
4. Impressive Results
This is a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a special family dinner, these ribs are guaranteed to steal the show. They’re a true centerpiece dish that looks, smells, and tastes amazing.
5. Dietary Options
Another plus? These ribs can easily fit various diets if needed. Opt for a sugar-free barbecue sauce for a low-carb version or skip certain spices in the rub for a mild flavor. You can tailor it to meet the dietary needs of your loved ones.
Cooking Time
Here’s how much time you’ll need to whip up these ribs:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Ingredients
- Pork baby back ribs (2 racks, about 2-3 pounds)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Salt (1 teaspoon)
- Black pepper (1 teaspoon)
- Paprika (2 tablespoons)
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic powder (1 tablespoon)
- Onion powder (1 tablespoon)
- Cayenne pepper (1/2 teaspoon, optional)
- Ketchup (1 cup)
- Apple cider vinegar (1/4 cup)
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup)
- Worcestershire sauce (2 tablespoons)
- Dijon mustard (1 tablespoon)
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon)
Variations
Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:
- Dairy-Free: Skip butter or cream in a sauce accompaniment.
- Sugar-Free: Replace brown sugar in the sauce with a sugar substitute like monk fruit or stevia.
- Spice Mix Twist: Experiment with smoked chili powder, cumin, or even a dash of ground coffee for a bold rub.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Knife – To trim and remove the membrane.
- Paper towels – For drying and handling the rib membrane.
- Grill – Necessary for the slow-cooking process.
- Wood chips or chunks – For that smoky flavor.
- Saucepan – To make the barbecue sauce.
- Pastry brush – For glazing the ribs with sauce.
How to Make Fall Off The Bone Ribs?
If you want to achieve perfectly tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with a smoky, caramelized glaze, this recipe is for you! With slow cooking and the right balance of seasoning and sauce, you’ll get ribs that are irresistibly juicy and packed with flavor. Here’s how to make them step by step:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs 🧑🍳
Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. Hold it with a paper towel and pull gently to peel it off. This step ensures the seasoning penetrates fully. Then, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry. Rub both sides of the ribs with olive oil, followed by a generous sprinkling of rib rub. Massage the rub to coat the meat evenly.
Step 2: Prep the Grill 🔥
Heat your grill for indirect cooking. If you’re using charcoal, push the coals to one side. For a gas grill, turn on only one burner. Place soaked and drained wood chips over the heat source to add a smoky touch.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Ribs 🕐
Lay the ribs on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat. Close the lid and maintain a temperature of around 225°F. Every now and then, flip or rotate the ribs to ensure even cooking. This process will take 3-4 hours, but your patience will pay off when you taste the tender results.
Step 4: Cook the Barbecue Sauce 🍯
While the ribs cook, make the sauce. Combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a saucepan. Mix everything on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Step 5: Glaze and Finish the Ribs 🤤
During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs generously with the barbecue sauce. Close the grill lid and allow the sauce to caramelize into a sticky, delicious glaze.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy 🎉
Once the ribs appear golden and glistening, remove them from the grill. Slice the ribs between the bones, serve with extra sauce on the side, and watch your guests marvel at your handiwork!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Always remove the membrane for optimal seasoning saturation.
- Monitor the grill temperature to avoid overcooking or drying out the ribs.
- Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain the juices.
- If you’re short on time, you can finish the ribs in the oven on a low setting.
How to Serve Fall Off The Bone Ribs?
Presentation can elevate your meal! Serve the ribs on a wooden board or a large platter with the sauce on the side. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and consider pairing them with cornbread, coleslaw, or grilled vegetables for a balanced feast. Don’t forget extra napkins—this is a finger-licking dish!
Nutritional Information
Here’s what you can expect per serving:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
Make Ahead and Storage
These ribs reheat beautifully! If you have leftovers or want to prepare them in advance, here’s what to do:
- Refrigeration: Store ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap the ribs in foil, then seal them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the ribs in a 275°F oven covered with foil until heated through for the best texture.
With these Fall Off The Bone Ribs, you’re in for a treat that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Grab your grill, gather some wood chips, and prepare for a meal that will go down as a favorite for years to come!
Check out this step-by-step video:
Fall Off The Bone Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
- Pork baby back ribs 2 racks, about 2-3 pounds
- Olive oil 2 tablespoons
- Salt 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper 1 teaspoon
- Paprika 2 tablespoons
- Brown sugar 2 tablespoons
- Garlic powder 1 tablespoon
- Onion powder 1 tablespoon
- Cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon, optional
- Ketchup 1 cup
- Apple cider vinegar 1/4 cup
- Brown sugar 1/4 cup
- Worcestershire sauce 2 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon
- Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
- Onion powder 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika 1 teaspoon
Instructions
- Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. Hold it with a paper towel and pull gently to peel it off. This step ensures the seasoning penetrates fully. Then, rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry. Rub both sides of the ribs with olive oil, followed by a generous sprinkling of rib rub. Massage the rub to coat the meat evenly.
- Heat your grill for indirect cooking. If you’re using charcoal, push the coals to one side. For a gas grill, turn on only one burner. Place soaked and drained wood chips over the heat source to add a smoky touch.
- Lay the ribs on the cooler side of the grill, away from direct heat. Close the lid and maintain a temperature of around 225°F. Every now and then, flip or rotate the ribs to ensure even cooking. This process will take 3-4 hours, but your patience will pay off when you taste the tender results.
- While the ribs cook, make the sauce. Combine ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika in a saucepan. Mix everything on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
- During the last 15 minutes of cooking, brush the ribs generously with the barbecue sauce. Close the grill lid and allow the sauce to caramelize into a sticky, delicious glaze.
- Once the ribs appear golden and glistening, remove them from the grill. Slice the ribs between the bones, serve with extra sauce on the side, and watch your guests marvel at your handiwork!
Notes
- Always remove the membrane for optimal seasoning saturation.
- Monitor the grill temperature to avoid overcooking or drying out the ribs.
- Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain the juices.
- If you’re short on time, you can finish the ribs in the oven on a low setting.
