Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsGrandpa's Southern BBQBaby Back Ribs Recipe

Baby Back Ribs Recipe

Time5h
Serves4

Specially smoked and seasoned. Cooked tender and 'good-to-the-bone'.

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Ingredients

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Ingredients for Baby Back Ribs

Method

Directions for Cooking Baby Back Ribs

  1. 1

    Prepare the Ribs

    Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and trim any excess fat.

  2. 2

    Make the Rub

    In a bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well.

  3. 3

    Season the Ribs

    Rub the spice mix generously all over the ribs, ensuring even coverage. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.

  4. 4

    Preheat the Smoker

    Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).

  5. 5

    Smoke the Ribs

    Place the ribs in the smoker bone side down. Smoke for about 3 hours.

  6. 6

    Spritz with Apple Cider Vinegar

    After 1.5 hours, spritz the ribs with apple cider vinegar to keep them moist.

  7. 7

    Apply BBQ Sauce

    After 3 hours, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce and continue to smoke for an additional 1 hour.

  8. 8

    Check for Tenderness

    Check for tenderness by inserting a toothpick. If it goes in easily, the ribs are done.

  9. 9

    Rest and Serve

    Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes before cutting. Serve with additional BBQ sauce on the side.

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