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Grilled Ribs (ribs on the grill)

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These grilled ribs are tender, smoky, and coated with a flavorful BBQ glaze. Perfect for family gatherings or weekend cookouts, this recipe combines a savory marinade with a bold dry rub to create ribs that melt in your mouth.

  • Total Time: 3 hours+
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • Marinade:

    • 1/3 cup soy sauce

    • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive 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

  • Ribs & Rub:

    • 2 racks baby back ribs (approx. 34 lbs each)

    • 1 1/4 tablespoons kosher salt

    • 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

    • 1 cup BBQ sauce

Instructions

  • Rinse and dry the ribs. Remove the silver membrane from the back.

  • Mix marinade ingredients and coat ribs. Refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight.

  • Combine rub ingredients. Remove ribs from marinade, pat dry, and apply rub evenly.

  • Preheat grill to 250–275°F using a two-zone setup.

  • Place ribs bone-side down on indirect heat. Cook for 2.5–3 hours, rotating every 30 minutes and brushing with marinade or sauce as needed.

  • In the last 20 minutes, brush with BBQ sauce in thin layers, allowing it to caramelize.

  • Check for doneness by bending ribs or using a toothpick test.

  • Rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight enhances flavor.

  • Substitute beef ribs for baby back ribs if preferred, adjusting cooking time slightly.

  • Lightly spray with water or apple cider vinegar while grilling to prevent dryness.

  • Author: Layla
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 2–12 hours marinating)
  • Cook Time: 3 hours