Grilled Ribs

The smell of succulent, smoky ribs sizzling on the grill is enough to bring anyone to the backyard. This Grilled Ribs recipe takes about 2 hours (including marinating time) to prepare and cook, and it works beautifully due to the flavorful marinade and spice rub that infuse every bite with deliciousness.

This recipe is perfect for weekend gatherings, summer barbecues, or any time you crave mouthwatering ribs. You can even marinate the ribs the day before for a more intense flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The ribs are tender and fall-off-the-bone delicious.
• A perfect balance of savory and smoky flavors.
• The dry rub gives a satisfying crust while keeping the meat juicy.
• Easy to customize with your favorite BBQ sauce.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to create flavorful grilled ribs:

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 2 tbsp garlic, minced
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• pinch of kosher salt
• pinch of ground black pepper

For the Ribs

• 2 racks of baby back ribs (approx. 3-4 lbs each)
• 1 1/4 tbsp kosher salt (more if desired)

For the Dry Rub

• 2 1/2 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 1/2 tbsp lemon pepper
• 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tbsp smoked garlic powder
• 1/2 tbsp onion powder
• 1/2 tbsp ground black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup your choice of BBQ sauce

For the best flavor, use high-quality BBQ sauce.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use low-sodium soy sauce for less salt.
• Avocado oil is a great neutral alternative.
• Maple syrup can replace sugar if needed.
• Any favorite seasoning can substitute the dry rub spices.

How to Make It

Prepare your ingredients and follow these steps for mouthwatering grilled ribs.

1. Make Marinade

Combine all marinade ingredients in a medium bowl. Whisk to combine and set aside.

2. Prep Ribs + Marinate

Pat ribs dry with a clean paper towel. Place ribs, meat side down, on a baking sheet. Using a small knife, gently lift off the corner of the membrane and pull to remove it. Place ribs in a 9×13 pan and pour marinade over the top. Rub the marinade all over to ensure it covers every nook and cranny. Cover and let marinate for 30-60 minutes.

3. Prep Grill

Ensure grill grates are clean and well-greased. Preheat grill temperature to 500 degrees F.

4. Make Dry Rub

In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, smoked paprika, lemon pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), smoked garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper.

5. Season Ribs

Remove ribs from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Place on a baking sheet and cover ribs with the dry rub, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated.

6. Grill Ribs

Place both racks of ribs meat-side down over the middle burner. Drop heat down to 300 degrees F (consider turning off the middle burner and leaving the outer two on low). Let ribs cook for 30 minutes, then flip.

7. Continue Cooking

Continue cooking ribs until the internal temperature reaches between 190-203 degrees F (190 degrees F will yield firmer ribs, while 203 degrees F will have meat that easily falls off the bone).

8. BBQ Sauce

When ribs are approximately 5 degrees away from being done, brush the tops with a generous amount of your favorite BBQ sauce and close the lid until fully cooked.

9. Rest Ribs

Remove ribs from the grill and place them on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and let sit for 30-60 minutes.

10. Serve

Uncover the foil and serve!

How to Store It

Fridge: Enjoy within 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, but best eaten fresh.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes or warm in the oven.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to marinate the ribs for the full time for maximum flavor.
• Maintain consistent grill temperature for even cooking.
• Baste with BBQ sauce in the last few minutes for a caramelized finish.
• Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
• Serve with cornbread for a comforting side.
• Enjoy alongside grilled vegetables for a colorful plate.