BBQ Ribs With Homemade Sauce (For A Memorable 4th Of July Feast)

Servings

4

servings
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

2

hours 
Calories

580

kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs or spare ribs (about 4-5 pounds)

  • 1 cup ketchup

  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed

  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar

  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 tablespoon paprika

  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Directions

  • Prepare the Ribs: First, remove the membrane/skin off the ribs. And to do this, just use a knife to lift one corner of the membrane, then grip it with a paper towel and peel it off in one smooth motion. This will ensure tender ribs that absorb the flavors better.
  • Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix the paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub. Rub this mixture generously all over the ribs, covering every inch with the flavorful spices.
  • Make the Homemade BBQ Sauce: In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Set aside for basting and serving.
  • Grill the Ribs: Preheat your grill to medium-low heat, around 275°F to 300°F (135°C to 150°C). Set up a two-zone fire by placing the coals on one side of the grill and leaving the other side without direct heat. Place the ribs on the cooler side of the grill for indirect cooking.
  • Basting and Grilling: Baste the ribs with the homemade BBQ sauce every 30 minutes while cooking. Close the grill lid and let the ribs cook for 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the thickness of the ribs, until they are tender and slightly charred.
  • Serving: Once the ribs are cooked to perfection, remove them from the grill. Cut the racks into individual ribs for easy serving. Serve the delicious BBQ ribs with extra homemade sauce on the side for dipping and a selection of your favorite sides.

As the sun shines brightly and the air fills with laughter and excitement for the 4th of July celebrations.

It’s a time of year that calls for a festive feast, and what better way to do that than with a crave-worthy 4th of July recipe that brings everyone together?

BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce is a culinary masterpiece that never fails to delight, and it has become a cherished tradition in my family.

The sizzling grill, the smoky aroma, and the smiling faces of friends and family gathering around.

(that’s the magic of BBQ ribs)

It’s a cherished family meal prep dish that exudes warmth and joy, perfect for creating lasting memories and cherishing moments with loved ones.

And when it comes to the 4th of July, the excitement only amplifies.

As you come together to celebrate the nation’s independence, the spirit of camaraderie and unity shines brightly.

BBQ ribs, with their rich flavors and tender textures, perfectly embody the essence of this festive occasion.

In this article, I’ll guide you through every step of creating the perfect BBQ ribs with homemade sauce.

Ensuring your summer gatherings and 4th of July celebrations are truly unforgettable.

From ideal meal-prepping tips for achieving the best flavors to choosing the right ribs, preparing them with care, and crafting a delectable homemade sauce.

Let’s embark on a culinary journey that promises to delight your taste buds and warm your heart!

Expert Tips for Perfect BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce

Fresh baby back ribs on top of a butchers paper

When it comes to preparing the most tantalizing BBQ ribs, mastering the art of preparation is key.

Here are some proven meal-prepping ideas to ensure your ribs turn out absolutely delectable:

  • Choose the Best Ribs: To achieve the best flavors, selecting the right type of ribs is crucial.

    Baby back ribs are all about tenderness and speed. They cook up in a jiffy and practically melt in your mouth.

    (Perfect for those moments when you just can’t wait to sink your teeth into something magical)

    But if you’re looking for a meatier affair with a side of rich flavors, spare ribs are what you need.

    More meat means more opportunities for your taste buds to do a samba of joy.
  • To Remove the Skin/Membrane: Removing the tough membrane from the back of the ribs is essential for tender and succulent results.

    To do this, use a handy meal prep essential like a knife to lift one corner of the membrane.

    Then grip it with a paper towel and peel it off in one smooth motion. (in a smooth, steady motion)

    And voilà. Your ribs are ready to embrace all those flavors.
  • To Get the Best Flavor of Ribs: A well-balanced dry rub adds depth and complexity to the ribs.

    You can use the rub on my smoked brisket with tangy slaw recipe.

    (don’t worry, it’s so easy)

    Just create a dry rub using a combination of salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic.

    Generously sprinkle and massage this medley of flavor onto your ribs.

    I’m talking about a full-on spa treatment, folks. (Every nook, every cranny—let it rain flavor)

With your perfectly chosen ribs, liberated from their clingy shackles, and dressed to the nines with that rub of wonders, it’s time to let the grill work its magic.

Delicious Accompaniments for Your BBQ Ribs with Homemade Sauce

As you prepare to indulge in tantalizing BBQ ribs with homemade sauce.

Complement the star of the show with these mouthwatering accompaniments that will elevate your meal to a whole new level of culinary delight.

Creamy Mashed Cauliflower

Oh, hello there, creamy goodness. This velvety delight is like a happy dance in your mouth.

This creamy cauliflower mashed is the perfect partner-in-crime for your BBQ ribs.

It’s healthier than regular mashed potatoes but just as satisfying.

Crispy Baked Parmesan Zucchini Fries

(Crispy, crunchy, and oh-so-cheesy)

Say hello to your new BBQ ribs bestie – baked Parmesan zucchini fries.

These babies bring the fun to your plate with a savory twist. They’re like a flavorful fireworks display in your mouth, complementing those ribs like nobody’s business. 

Delightful Watermelon Feta Salad

(Hot summer days meet cool, refreshing perfection)

Watermelon feta salad, you sweet thing. This combo is a match made in BBQ heaven.

The juicy watermelon dances with the tangy feta, creating a delightful flavor tango that brightens up your taste buds. 

Embrace the sizzling flavors of your BBQ ribs with homemade sauce and let these delicious accompaniments add a playful twist to your feast.

With every mouthwatering bite, you’ll be celebrating summer and the 4th of July in the most deliciously fun and nourishing way.

As you bid farewell to this delightful culinary journey, you’re left with the lingering taste of BBQ ribs with homemade sauce.

A dish that embodies the spirit of summer and the joy of the 4th of July celebrations.

With expert tips for perfecting the ribs and the delicious accompaniments that brought a smile to your taste buds.

(You’ve created a feast that’s both mouthwatering and memorable)

So, whether you’re grilling up for dinner at camping with the whole group or hosting a vibrant 4th of July gathering, these BBQ ribs are sure to steal the show.

From the tender meat that falls off the bone to the smoky flavors that transport you to BBQ paradise, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser.

The essence goes beyond the cuisine; it encompasses the company you enjoy it with.

As you gather around the table with your loved ones, laughter fills the air, and stories are shared, making these moments even more special.

That’s the magic of preparing a delicious dish for the family. (it brings everyone closer together)

So, as you celebrate summer and the 4th of July, may these BBQ ribs with homemade sauce be the centerpiece of your joyous occasion.

Let the flavors ignite your senses, and let the fun and laughter flow like the fireworks in the night sky.

Here’s to good food, great company, and unforgettable memories that will warm your hearts for years to come.

Cheers to a summer filled with delicious moments and endless opportunities. 

Looking To Organize Your 4th of July Meals in Style?

You’re in for a treat because my free printable meal planner is here to help.

This planner will be your trusty sidekick in creating mouthwatering and nourishing meals for your 4th of July gatherings.

Say goodbye to mealtime stress and hello to a perfectly organized kitchen and delightful dishes.

This printable meal planner will keep you on track and add a touch of elegance to your meal-planning routine.

It’s time to plan, prep, and pamper yourself with culinary wonders.

Download now to get your hands on this fabulous meal planner, and let’s conquer the kitchen together.

FAQ

What is the secret to making good ribs?

Ah, the secret to making finger-licking good ribs lies in the art of patience and flavor balance. 

The key to success lies in the art of taking things slowly and keeping the heat low.

Whether you’re grilling or slow cooking in the oven, allowing the ribs to cook low and slow ensures they become tender, juicy, and infused with smoky goodness.

Also, don’t skimp on the dry rub. It’s the magic touch that takes your ribs from ordinary to extraordinary.

Can you put BBQ sauce on the ribs before cooking?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s a flavor game-changer.

Slathering your ribs with BBQ sauce before cooking not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also creates a beautiful caramelized glaze during the cooking process. 

Basting the ribs with sauce as they cook adds depth and richness to every bite. It’s the secret to achieving that lip-smacking BBQ goodness.

What’s the best way to tenderize ribs?

Tenderizing ribs is the key to melt-in-your-mouth perfection.

For the best results, opt for the slow cooking method. Wrap the ribs in foil and let them cook low and slow in the oven or on the grill.

This gentle cooking process allows the collagen in the meat to break down, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tender ribs.

You’ll be amazed at the incredible tenderness that awaits.

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