Grilled Ribs

A delicious aroma fills the air as you grill tender, juicy ribs that are perfectly caramelized on the outside. This Grilled Ribs recipe is packed with flavor and takes about two hours from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for a weekend cookout or a special family meal. The secret to these ribs is the zesty marinade combined with a flavorful dry rub that keeps the meat juicy while adding layers of taste.

This recipe is perfect for backyard grill enthusiasts and anyone looking to impress friends and family. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a holiday gathering, these ribs are sure to be a hit. You can prepare the ribs a day in advance for a more convenient cooking experience, allowing the flavors to really develop.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The ribs are infused with a complex flavor from the marinade.
• The dry rub creates a beautifully crispy crust that contrasts with tender meat.
• Smoking them on the grill allows for a superior depth of flavor.
• You’ll enjoy a crowd-pleasing meal that requires minimal maintenance while cooking.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make your Grilled Ribs:

For the Marinade

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (or avocado oil)
• 2 tablespoons garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons 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 tablespoons kosher salt (more if desired)

For the Dry Rub

• 2 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 2 1/2 tablespoons lemon pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon smoked garlic powder
• 1/2 tablespoon onion powder
• 1/2 tablespoon ground black pepper

For Serving

• 1 cup your choice of BBQ sauce

Optional substitutions include using tamari for soy sauce and any preferred BBQ sauce variety.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Avocado oil can replace olive oil.
• Use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder.
• Other vinegars like red wine can work too.
• Chicken or pork ribs can be swapped for baby back ribs.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to achieve the perfect grilled ribs.

1. Make Marinade

Combine marinade ingredients in a medium bowl and whisk to combine. Set aside.

2. Prep Ribs + Marinate

Pat ribs dry with a clean paper towel. Place the ribs, meat side down, on a baking sheet. Using a small knife, gently lift off the corner of the membrane (the layer of thin connective tissue) and gently pull to remove. Place in a 9×13 pan and pour marinade over top, rubbing it all over to cover 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 to 500 degrees F.

4. Make Dry Rub

In a small bowl, combine the 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 and let the excess drip off. Place them on a baking sheet and cover 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. Reduce heat to 300 degrees F. (I usually turn off the middle burner and leave the outer two on and on low). Cook the ribs for 30 minutes, then flip.

7. Check Doneness

Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches between 190-203 degrees F. (190 degrees F. will be more firm, while 203 degrees F. will allow the meat to fall off the bone easier).

8. BBQ Sauce

When the 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 they finish cooking.

9. Rest Ribs

Remove from the grill and place 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: store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, ribs lose quality when frozen.
Reheat: microwave on low for 2-3 minutes or warm on the grill.

Tips for Best Results

• Remove the membrane from the ribs for better flavor absorption.
• Let the ribs rest after grilling for optimal tenderness.
• Use a quality BBQ sauce that complements the marinade.
• Monitor the grill temperature closely to prevent burning.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with classic coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
• Serve alongside corn on the cob for a delicious summer meal.
• Enjoy with baked beans for a hearty side dish.