Barbecuing ribs can be a delicious way to prepare a tasty meat dish, but it does require some time and technique to do it right. Here is a comprehensive guide on how long it takes to bbq ribs to perfection.
Introduction
Ribs are a classic barbecued meat that are cherished for their succulent meat that falls right off the bone when cooked properly. BBQ ribs are seasoned with a dry rub or wet barbecue sauce and then slowly cooked over indirect heat from a grill or smoker so the tough connective tissues can break down, making them tender.
But exactly how long does it take to barbecue ribs to get them to that ideal tender yet not overdone consistency? That depends on a few key factors:
Type of Ribs
- Baby back ribs – Taken from the upper rib cage near the spine. Usually more tender and leaner than spare ribs. Take 2-4 hours to cook.
- Spare ribs – From the belly and side section. Meatier and fattier with more connective tissue. Can take 4-6 hours to become tender.
- Beef ribs – From the rib section of a cow. Need extended periods of 6-8+ hours to break down connective tissues.
Cook Method
- Grilling – High direct heat. Quicker but can dry out ribs. Takes 2-3 hours.
- Smoking – Low, indirect heat from wood, charcoal or gas. Long, slow cooking tenderizes. Takes 4-6+ hours.
- Oven roasting – Indirect heat in oven. Similar to smoking. Takes 3-4 hours.
- Braising – Cooking in liquid like a slow cooker. Tenderizes while keeping moist. Takes 4-6 hours.
Number of Ribs
- Individual ribs – Smaller cuts like single baby back ribs. Take less time, around 2-3 hours.
- Full rack of ribs – An entire slab of consecutive ribs. Takes significantly longer at 4-6+ hours.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this timeline guide on just how long you should expect to barbecue different types and cuts of ribs from prep to finished dish:
1. Prepare the Ribs (30 mins – 1 hour)
- Select ribs (baby back, spare, etc) and desired quantity
- Remove membrane from back of ribs
- Trim any excess fat or bone tips
- Apply dry rub, marinade or sauce to season
2. Bring Meat to Room Temp (30 mins – 1 hour)
- Take ribs out of fridge and let sit to lose chill
- Helps them cook more evenly later
3. Preheat Grill/Smoker (30 mins – 1 hour)
- Heat up grill or smoker with charcoal, wood chips or gas
- Target temp of 225-275°F for low, indirect cooking
- Add wood chips or chunks for extra smoke flavor
4. Cook Ribs (2 – 6+ hours)
- Place ribs bone-side down on grill grates
- Maintain even, indirect heat on both sides
- Flip and rotate ribs every hour
- Monitor tenderness; check if bone loosens or meat tears easily
5. Apply Sauce (15 – 30 mins)
- During last 15-30 mins, brush sauce over both sides
- Helps caramelize and thicken sauce to sticky glaze
6. Rest and Serve (10 – 20 mins)
- Remove ribs from heat and let rest 10-20 minutes
- Allows juices to reabsorb for moist, flavorful meat
- Slice into sections or individual ribs
- Enjoy!
Cooking Tips
- Use meat thermometer to check for 205°F internal temp of tender ribs
- Spritz with apple juice or broth during cook to keep moist
- Wrap in foil if ribs drying out but remove for last hour
- Cut rib racks in half for shorter cook times
- Allow 1 – 1 1/2 hours of cook time per pound of ribs
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to bbq baby back ribs?
For baby back ribs, it typically takes 2-4 hours to grill or smoke them to ideal tenderness. Go for 2-2 1/2 hours for a half rack, 3-4 hours for a full rack.
How long should you smoke spare ribs?
Spare ribs often take a bit longer than baby backs due to their thicker meat and connective tissues. You’ll want to smoke spare ribs for about 4-6 hours total for full tenderness.
What temperature should you cook ribs at?
Aim for a consistent temperature between 225-275°F when smoking or grilling ribs. This lower heat tenderizes the meat over time. Higher heats risk burning the outside before the inside cooks through.
Should ribs be cooked in foil?
Wrapping ribs in foil or butcher paper during the mid-stage of cooking helps trap moisture and speed up tenderizing in the meat. But remove the foil during the last 30-60 mins so the sauce can caramelize.
How can you tell when ribs are done?
Check for tenderness where the meat easily tears away. Look for an internal temp of at least 205°F. And perform the bend test where the ribs bend without breaking. When done, the meat should be very tender and fall off the bone.
Conclusion
Perfectly cooked barbecue ribs require controlling the temperature and cooking time in order to break down the connective tissues and fats for a tender, fall-off-the-bone quality. The exact amount of time needed depends on the cut, thickness, prep method and more. But following the techniques from this guide will help ensure your ribs turn out mouthwateringly delicious.
The key is being patient and allowing enough barbecue time of 4-6 hours for most pork ribs to fully tenderize without drying out. Give your smoked or grilled ribs the love and low, slow treatment they deserve. Your patience will pay off in flavorful, juicy ribs that win over any barbecue fan.