Cooking ribs on the grill is easier than you think. Learn how to perfectly grill baby back ribs every time with this foolproof recipe!
Cooking Ribs On the Grill
Wondering how to grill baby back ribs? You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:
How to Cook Ribs On the Grill
Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make baby back ribs on the grill:
- Make the spice rub.
- Trim the ribs, then season with the spice mix.
- Cook the ribs on the grill according to the detailed recipe below.
- Brush the grilled baby back ribs with barbecue sauce.
- Grill for five more minutes.
Baby Back Ribs Spice Rub
This grilled baby back rib recipe calls for a savory homemade spice rub made with cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
How Long to Cook Ribs On the Grill
It should take about an hour to perfectly cook these baby back ribs on the grill. You’ll know the ribs are done when an instant read thermometer inserted into the center reads 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).
What to Serve With Baby Back Ribs
If you’re looking for mouthwatering serving inspiration, we’ve got you covered. Explore our collection of 13 Delicious Side Dishes for Ribs for crowd-pleasing pairing ideas. Here are a few of the top-rated recipes you’ll find:
How to Store Baby Back Ribs
Store your leftover baby back ribs in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat the ribs in the oven, on the grill, in an air fryer, or (in a pinch) in the microwave.
Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise
“This is a foolproof recipe,” according to Charles Nguyen. “Easy to find ingredients, simply get an excellent quality rib, pair it with your favorite bbq sauce and voilà!”
“Absolutely fantastic,” raves Adam Brown. “You can play with the spice mix, but if you follow the cooking directions, you’ll have ribs with meat falling off the bones.”
“The rub itself is absolutely amazing,” according to Mosey. “Top it off with my favorite BBQ sauce...heaven! Best ribs I've had in a long time!”
Editorial contributions by Corey Williams
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon ground cumin
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1 tablespoon chili powder
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1 tablespoon paprika
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salt and pepper to taste
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3 pounds baby back pork ribs
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1 cup barbeque sauce
Directions
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Gather the ingredients.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Preheat a gas grill for high heat, or arrange charcoal briquettes on one side of the barbeque. Lightly oil the grate.
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Combine cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a small jar; close the lid and shake to mix.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Trim the membrane sheath from the back of each rack. Run a small, sharp knife between the membrane and each rib, and snip off the membrane as much as possible.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Sprinkle as much of the rub onto both sides of ribs as desired. To prevent ribs from becoming too dark and spicy, do not thoroughly rub spices into ribs. Store any unused spice mix in a jar for future use.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Place aluminum foil on the lower rack to capture drippings and prevent flare-ups. Lay ribs on the top rack of the grill (away from the coals, if you're using briquettes). Reduce gas heat to low and close the lid; cook ribs, undisturbed as possible, until meat pulls away easily from the bone, about 1 hour. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read 145 degrees F (63 degrees C).
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Brush ribs with barbecue sauce, and grill for an additional 5 minutes.
Dotdash Meredith Food Studios
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Serve ribs as a whole rack, or cut between each rib bone and pile individually on a platter.
From the Editor
Nutrition data for this recipe includes the full amount of spice mix. The actual amount of spice mix consumed will vary.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| 911 | Calories |
| 71g | Fat |
| 21g | Carbs |
| 48g | Protein |
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings Per Recipe 6 | |
| Calories 911 | |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Total Fat 71g | 91% |
| Saturated Fat 21g | 105% |
| Cholesterol 238mg | 79% |
| Sodium 780mg | 34% |
| Total Carbohydrate 21g | 8% |
| Dietary Fiber 1g | 5% |
| Total Sugars 16g | |
| Protein 48g | 97% |
| Vitamin C 0mg | 0% |
| Calcium 75mg | 6% |
| Iron 5mg | 26% |
| Potassium 781mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.
(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.
