Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in the rich, tangy flavor of tender baby back ribs slathered in a sticky glaze or rubbed with a bold dry seasoning. Whether you’re a grilling enthusiast or just looking for new ways to impress your friends and family, these 18 smoky baby back ribs recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.
From sweet and spicy to savory and tangy, each recipe on this list offers a unique twist on the classic BBQ dish. You’ll find recipes that feature bold flavors like chipotle lime and maple brown sugar, as well as more subtle takes like garlic parmesan and rosemary and garlic. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and sticky or smoky and savory, there’s sure to be a recipe on this list that’s just right for you.
Honey Garlic Glazed Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with this sticky and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of honey, garlic, and brown sugar to create a mouthwatering glaze for tender baby back ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 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 honey, garlic, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season the ribs with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the ribs in a large baking dish and brush the glaze all over the meat.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are caramelized and tender.
7. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Spicy Dry-Rubbed Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the tender, flavorful results of this simple dry-rub recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Apply the spice mixture evenly to both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Place ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
6. Bake for 2 hours, then increase oven temperature to broil (high).
7. Broil ribs for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 10-15 minutes
Slow-Cooked Bourbon BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Slow-Cooked Bourbon BBQ Baby Back Ribs: A Tender and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe
These slow-cooked baby back ribs are slathered in a rich bourbon-infused BBQ sauce, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone meat that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 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 slow cooker to low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove membrane from ribs and place them in the slow cooker.
4. Pour the bourbon BBQ sauce over the ribs.
5. Cook for 8-10 hours or overnight.
6. Remove ribs from slow cooker and brush with additional bourbon BBQ sauce (if desired).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Maple Brown Sugar Baby Back Ribs
Maple Brown Sugar Baby Back Ribs
Sweet and tangy, these maple brown sugar baby back ribs are perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy night in. With just the right balance of flavors, they’re sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 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 grill to medium-low heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs (optional). Season both sides with salt and pepper.
4. Place ribs on grill, bone side down. Brush with the maple-brown sugar mixture every 10-15 minutes.
5. Cook for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until tender. Flip ribs after 1 hour and continue to cook.
6. Remove from heat when done. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 to 3 hours
Asian-Inspired Sticky Baby Back Ribs
Asian-Inspired Sticky Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with the sweet and savory flavors of Asia, as we transform classic baby back ribs into a mouthwatering delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add the baby back ribs to the marinade, making sure they’re fully coated.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, bone-side down.
7. Bake for 25 minutes per pound, or until the meat is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour to 2 hours, depending on size of ribs.
Smoked Paprika Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with these tender and flavorful baby back ribs smothered in a rich smoked paprika glaze. Perfect for a weekend barbecue or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or smoker to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together smoked paprika, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and olive oil.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs and place them on the grill or smoker.
4. Brush the smoked paprika glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Close the lid and cook for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Apple Cider Braised Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory with this autumnal twist on traditional ribs. The apple cider braising liquid adds a depth of flavor that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1 cup apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine apple cider, brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the baby back ribs to the braising liquid, making sure they’re fully submerged.
4. Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
6. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Chipotle Lime Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with these tender, flavorful ribs smothered in a spicy chipotle lime sauce!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together chipotle peppers, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, and cumin.
3. Place the ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
4. Brush the chipotle lime mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 2-1/2 hours or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Tips:
– For extra crispy skin, broil the ribs for an additional 2-3 minutes after baking.
– Serve with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or cornbread.
Mustard and Molasses Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall in love with the rich flavors of these Mustard and Molasses Baby Back Ribs! A perfect combination of sweet and savory, this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup mustard (such as Dijon or whole-grain)
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together mustard, molasses, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and place them in a large baking dish or sheet pan.
4. Brush the mustard-molasses mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are caramelized and tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Pineapple Teriyaki Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to fall off the bone with this delectable recipe that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of teriyaki sauce. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or just a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, and garlic powder.
3. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended for easier tenderization).
4. Place the ribs in a large baking dish and brush with the teriyaki mixture, making sure to coat all surfaces evenly.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and caramelized.
7. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your rib game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the pungency of garlic and the richness of parmesan cheese. These tender baby back ribs are sure to impress!
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds baby back ribs
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove the membrane from the back of each rib (this will help the seasonings penetrate).
5. Place the ribs on the prepared baking sheet and brush with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle the garlic-Parmesan mixture evenly over the ribs.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender and falls-off-the-bone.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Espresso-Rubbed Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of espresso with the tender juiciness of baby back ribs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup espresso powder
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together espresso powder, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and apply the espresso rub evenly, making sure to coat all surfaces.
4. Place ribs on grill or smoker, bone side down.
5. Close lid and cook for 2 hours, flipping halfway through.
6. Finish with a quick blast of direct heat (5-7 minutes) to caramelize the surface.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Sweet and Spicy Sriracha Baby Back Ribs
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these tender and juicy baby back ribs smothered in a sweet and spicy Sriracha glaze. Perfect for a BBQ gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
– 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Sriracha sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, and garlic powder.
3. Remove membrane from the back of the ribs (optional but recommended for tenderization).
4. Brush both sides of the ribs with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.
6. Brush Sriracha glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
7. Bake for 2 hours, then increase oven temperature to broil (high). Broil for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until caramelized and sticky.
8. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Rosemary and Garlic Baby Back Ribs
A flavorful twist on classic baby back ribs, this recipe combines the pungency of rosemary with the richness of garlic for a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
3. Season the ribs with salt and pepper.
4. Apply the garlic-rosemary mixture evenly to both sides of the ribs.
5. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone side down.
6. Bake for 2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Cherry Cola Glazed Baby Back Ribs
Transform ordinary ribs into a show-stopping main course with this unique glaze, featuring the sweet and tangy flavors of cherry cola. Perfect for your next BBQ or gathering!
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1 cup cherry cola
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine cherry cola, brown sugar, honey, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking until smooth.
4. Remove glaze from heat and brush onto both sides of the ribs.
5. Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone-side down.
6. Bake for 2 hours or until meat is tender and easily pulled apart.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Jerk-Spiced Baby Back Ribs
Get ready to taste the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering jerk-spiced baby back ribs recipe. Perfect for a casual dinner or backyard gathering, these tender and juicy ribs are slathered in a spicy jerk seasoning that will leave your guests begging for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, garlic, and thyme.
3. Remove membrane from back of ribs and pat dry with paper towels.
4. Slather both sides of ribs with the jerk mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
5. Place ribs on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, leaving some space between each rack.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 2 hours or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Balsamic Glazed Baby Back Ribs
Elevate your BBQ game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the richness of baby back ribs with the tanginess of balsamic glaze. Perfect for a special occasion or a relaxed weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds baby back ribs
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, olive oil, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone side down. Brush the glaze all over the ribs, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Bake for 2 hours or until the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones.
5. Increase oven temperature to broil (500°F/260°C). Broil for an additional 5-7 minutes or until caramelized.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Five-Spice Baby Back Ribs
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and savory with these tender Five-Spice Baby Back Ribs. The addition of five distinct spices takes this classic dish to new heights.
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
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 the back of the ribs and place them on a large baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
4. Brush the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the ribs, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Bake for 2 1/2 hours or until tender and slightly caramelized.
6. Increase oven temperature to broil (high) and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes to caramelize the top.
Cooking Time: 3-3 1/2 hours
Summary
Get ready to fire up your grill and indulge in some finger-lickin’ good ribs with these 18 smoky baby back ribs recipes! From sweet and sticky to spicy and tangy, this collection has something for every grilling enthusiast. Try honey garlic glaze, slow-cooked bourbon BBQ, or chipotle lime for a bold flavor kick. Or go classic with dry-rubbed ribs or maple brown sugar. With options ranging from Asian-inspired to Mediterranean-style, there’s no excuse not to try one (or three, or six…). Let the rib-tickling adventure begin!
