If you love ribs, you’ll enjoy these easy sweet and sticky BBQ ribs! They’re coated in a tasty sauce that makes them finger-lickin’ good. Plus, they cook to perfection without fuss.
I’ve had friends fight over the last bite—it’s that good! 😂 You just mix the sauce, brush it on the ribs, and let your oven do the magic. Who knew something this delicious could be so simple?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are tender and flavorful, but spare ribs are a more affordable option. Both work well for this recipe. If you’re looking for a non-pork option, try using beef short ribs instead!
Barbecue Sauce: Sweet BBQ sauce is ideal for that sticky glaze. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use a homemade sauce made with ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Many store brands also have sugar-free options.
Honey: This adds sweetness and helps with stickiness. You can easily swap it with maple syrup if you’re vegan or want a different flavor profile. Just note that it may slightly change the taste.
Soy Sauce: It adds umami. For a gluten-free option, you can use tamari or coconut aminos. This will keep the flavor but cater to dietary needs.
Spices: The garlic and onion powder are essential for that savory depth. You could substitute them with fresh garlic and onion for a stronger flavor, but note that you’ll need to adjust the quantities since fresh is more potent.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Ribs?
Getting tender ribs is all about cooking them low and slow. The foil wrapping helps keep the moisture in while they bake. Here’s what to do:
- Start your oven at 300°F (150°C) and let the ribs bake for 2 to 2.5 hours.
- Always unwrap the foil carefully to avoid steam burns — it’s hot!
- Finishing the ribs at a higher temperature caramelizes the sauce and gives a nice glaze. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
- Baste the ribs midway through the final cooking to achieve that sticky, sweet layer.
Resting the ribs after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and flavorful. Trust me; take a few minutes for this step!
Easy Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 to 3 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (preferably a sweet variety)
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
For the Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for some heat)
- Salt to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 2 to 2.5 hours for baking. Then, there’s an additional 10-15 minutes to glaze the ribs in the oven. Overall, you’re looking at about 2 hours and 30 minutes to 3 hours until your delicious BBQ ribs are ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prep:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking is essential for tender ribs. Pat your ribs dry with paper towels, and if there’s a thin silver skin membrane on the back, gently peel it off for better seasoning.
2. Season the Ribs:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and chili flakes. This spice mix will add a great flavor. Rub the spice mixture thoroughly over the entire surface of the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
3. Wrap and Bake:
Wrap your seasoned ribs tightly in aluminum foil. Place them on a baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Let them bake for 2 to 2.5 hours until they are nice and tender.
4. Make the BBQ Sauce:
While the ribs are baking, prepare your sticky BBQ sauce. In a bowl, combine your barbecue sauce, honey, soy sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Glaze the Ribs:
After baking, carefully unwrap the foil from the ribs (watch out for steam!). Increase your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Now, generously brush the prepared BBQ sauce all over the ribs.
6. Finish Baking:
Put the ribs back in the oven, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes. During this time, baste the ribs with more sauce halfway through to achieve that sticky and caramelized effect we all love.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re baked to perfection, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Then, sprinkle the top with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for that extra touch. Serve hot with more BBQ sauce on the side if desired!
Enjoy these deliciously sweet, sticky, and tender BBQ ribs that are perfect for any meal or party! Happy eating! 🍖
FAQ for Easy Sweet and Sticky BBQ Ribs
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! Baby back ribs are tender and flavorful, but spare ribs are also a great choice, offering more meat per rib. If you prefer a non-pork option, beef short ribs can work well too!
Can I Prepare the BBQ Sauce in Advance?
Yes! You can make the BBQ sauce a day or two ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to give it a good stir before using it on the ribs to ensure it’s well combined.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) to keep them tender without drying them out.
Can I Cook These Ribs on the Grill Instead?
Definitely! After the initial baking, you can finish the ribs on the grill. Just baste with the BBQ sauce and grill over medium heat for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until they are caramelized and sticky.
