Summer is here, and it’s the perfect time to fire up your grill and serve some mouthwatering smoked ribs!

Whether hosting a backyard cookout with friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner outside, smoked ribs will surely steal the show. With so many marinades and rubs to choose from, the flavor possibilities are endless!

This article will explore 20 delicious smoked rib recipes, elevating your outdoor cooking game this summer. Prepare to impress your guests with tender, juicy ribs bursting with flavor. From sweet and tangy to spicy and smoky, there’s a perfect rib recipe for everyone. Let’s dive in and get grilling!

1. Classic Memphis-Style Smoked Ribs

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these Memphis-style smoked ribs! This recipe is a tribute to the famous barbecue hub known for its dry rubs and tender meat. The secret to these ribs is the perfect blend of spices, which includes paprika, black pepper, and cayenne for a little kick.

After marinating overnight, the ribs are slowly smoked to perfection, resulting in meat that falls off the bone. These ribs are perfect for tossing on the grill at your next summer BBQ, impressing friends and family alike!

Recipe Overview:

Servings: 4-6
Prep Time: 15 mins (plus overnight marinating)
Cook Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 mins
Calories: 350 per serving

Nutrition Information:

Protein: 25g
Fat: 20g
Carbohydrates: 5g

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Combine the dry ingredients in a bowl to create the rub.
Rub the mixture generously over the ribs and wrap them in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate overnight.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
Place the ribs in the smoker and cook for 5 hours.
Remove from the smoker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips:

Use hickory or applewood for a subtle smoky flavor.
Always let the ribs rest before cutting to keep them juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pork spare ribs instead?
Yes, adjust the cooking time as they may take longer to cook.

These classic Memphis-style smoked ribs will be a highlight at any summer gathering! Enjoy the robust flavors and tender meat that everyone will love.

2. Tangy Honey BBQ Ribs

If you love sweet and tangy flavors, these honey BBQ ribs are for you! The marinade is a delightful mix of honey, apple cider vinegar, and your favorite BBQ sauce. The sweetness of the honey pairs perfectly with the acidity of the vinegar, creating a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully during smoking. These ribs are delicious and easy to make, making them an excellent choice for outdoor cookouts!

Recipe Details:

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 mins (plus 1 hour marinating)
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 mins
Calories: 400 per serving

Nutrition Information:

Protein: 30g
Fat: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1 cup honey
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Mix honey, apple cider vinegar, and BBQ sauce in a bowl.
Marinate the ribs in this mixture for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
Place the ribs on the smoker and cook for 3 hours.
Brush with remaining marinade every hour.
Remove, let them rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Tips:

For a thicker glaze, apply a final coat of BBQ sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Try using cherry wood for a slightly sweet smoke flavor.

These tangy honey BBQ ribs will have your guests licking their fingers clean and asking for seconds!

3. Spicy Chipotle-Glazed Ribs

Bring the heat to your summer cookout with these spicy chipotle-glazed ribs! Combining smoky chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, zesty lime juice, and aromatic garlic creates a marinade that packs a flavorful punch. Perfectly smoked, these ribs are tender and juicy with just the right spice to keep your guests returning for more. Whether grilling in the backyard or enjoying a picnic, these ribs elevate your outdoor cooking experience.

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Combine the chipotle peppers, minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a blender. Blend until smooth to create your marinade.
Place the ribs in a large dish or a sealable plastic bag, and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the ribs are well coated, then cover or seal and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for a deeper flavor.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
Once the smoker is ready, place the marinated ribs inside and smoke them for about 4 hours, or until they are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
During the last hour of cooking, brush the ribs with any remaining marinade to enhance the flavor.
When done, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for about 15 minutes before slicing.
Serve hot, and enjoy the spicy, smoky goodness!

Tips:

If you prefer a milder flavor, adjust the number of chipotle peppers used in the marinade.
Pair these ribs with cooling sides like coleslaw or a refreshing salad to balance the heat.

These spicy chipotle-glazed ribs will impress anyone who loves grilling recipes and outdoor cooking. Get ready for a summer BBQ that won’t soon be forgotten!

4. Sweet and Sticky Teriyaki Ribs

Transport your taste buds to Asia with these sweet and sticky teriyaki ribs! This recipe features a homemade teriyaki sauce that is both sweet and savory, making it a delightful choice for summer grilling. The marinade, crafted from soy sauce, ginger, and brown sugar, caramelizes beautifully while smoking. These ribs are perfect for those who love a sticky, finger-licking glaze that adds a unique twist to traditional BBQ ribs!

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Mix the soy sauce, brown sugar, grated ginger, sesame oil, and minced garlic until well combined.
Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated.
Marinate the ribs in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for a deeper flavor.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
Once the smoker is ready, remove the ribs from the marinade and place them in tit.
Smoke the ribs for about 3 hours, brushing with extra marinade every hour for that perfect sticky glaze.
After 3 hours, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10 minutes.
Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips:

Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an authentic look.
Serve with steamed rice and grilled veggies for a complete meal.

These sweet and sticky teriyaki ribs will add a unique flair to your summer BBQ and have everyone asking for the recipe!

5. Herb-Crusted Garlic Ribs

Herb-crusted garlic ribs are a fantastic choice for summer cookouts. Combining fresh herbs and garlic creates a mouthwatering crust that enhances the ribs’ natural flavors. These tender, smoky delights will impress your guests and elevate your outdoor dining experience.

Perfect for grilling enthusiasts, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time. This allows you to focus on enjoying your gathering. The ribs can be served alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/4 cup olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Mix olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, chopped thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Rub the herb mixture generously over both ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Cover the ribs and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C) to prepare for cooking.
Once the smoker is ready, place the marinated ribs inside, bone side down, and let them smoke for about 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
After cooking, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Finally, slice the ribs between the bones and serve with your favorite sides.

These herb-crusted garlic ribs will be a highlight of any summer BBQ, offering a delicious and aromatic experience that everyone will love. Enjoy the flavors of outdoor cooking with this delightful dish!

6. Maple Bourbon Glazed Ribs

Get ready to elevate your summer BBQ with these maple bourbon glazed ribs! This recipe combines maple syrup’s rich sweetness with bourbon’s smooth depth, creating a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes beautifully as the ribs cook. Perfect for outdoor cooking, these ribs will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for smoked meats.

Whether you’re a grilling aficionado or starting, this straightforward recipe results in tender, flavorful ribs, pair them with your favorite sides, and you’ll have a memorable meal that embodies the essence of summer cookouts.

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/2 cup maple syrup
1/4 cup bourbon
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
Generously coat the ribs with the marinade and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F, preparing it for a low and slow cook.
Place the ribs in the smoker and cook for about 3.5 hours. Brush the ribs with the glaze every hour to build up that delicious caramelized coating.
Once done, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps retain the juices and enhances the flavor.
Slice the ribs between the bones and serve them hot, garnished with any remaining glaze if desired.

Enjoy these maple bourbon glazed ribs, highlighting your summer grilling recipes!

7. Citrus Zest Ribs

Brighten up your summer BBQ with these citrus zest ribs! This recipe utilizes fresh orange and lemon zest, creating a refreshing and vibrant flavor perfect for hot days. The citrus marinade adds flavor and tenderizes the meat, producing juicy, flavorful ribs. This dish is ideal for those who love a fresh and zesty twist on traditional smoked ribs!

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
Zest of 1 orange
Zest of 1 lemon
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Combine orange zest, lemon zest, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Marinate the ribs for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
Smoke the ribs for about 4 hours until tender.
Let rest for 15 minutes, then slice and serve.

Tips:

Use fresh citrus for the best flavor.
Pair with a light salad or grilled fruits for a refreshing meal.

These citrus zest ribs are a delightful and refreshing option for your summer cookout, sure to be a crowd favorite!

8. Pomegranate Molasses Ribs

Transform your summer cookout with these pomegranate molasses ribs that will be a hit. The unique combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the succulent meat. Your guests will be pleasantly surprised by the depth of flavor of the pomegranate molasses, making your BBQ an unforgettable experience.

Perfect for outdoor cooking, these ribs taste amazing and look stunning with a sprinkle of fresh pomegranate seeds on top. Pair them with Mediterranean sides for a truly unique summer BBQ feast.

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/2 cup pomegranate molasses
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Combine the pomegranate molasses, apple cider vinegar, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well to create your glaze.
Generously coat the ribs with the marinade, ensuring they are well covered. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
Place the marinated ribs in the smoker. Smoke for about 3 hours, brushing with the glaze every hour.
After smoking, remove the ribs and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Slice and serve with a garnish of fresh pomegranate seeds.

Tips:

For a colorful presentation, sprinkle pomegranate seeds over the finished ribs.
Complement with Mediterranean sides like tabbouleh or roasted vegetables.

These pomegranate molasses ribs are a flavorful addition to your list of grilling recipes, making your summer BBQ stand out!

9. Sweet Chili Lime Ribs

Spice up your summer cookout with these sweet chili lime ribs! This recipe features sweet chili sauce and fresh lime juice for a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The marinade gives the ribs a beautiful glaze that caramelizes beautifully while cooking. These ribs are ideal for those who enjoy a bit of a kick while still savoring the sweetness of summer!

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
Juice of 2 limes
2 tablespoons soy sauce
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Mix the sweet chili sauce, lime juice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them—Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F.
Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Reserve the marinade for basting.
Smoke the ribs for about 3 hours, brushing with the reserved marinade every hour.
Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with lime wedges for an extra zesty finish.

These sweet chili lime ribs will be a fantastic addition to your summer BBQ, bringing flavor to your plate! Pair them with tropical sides like grilled pineapple or coconut rice for a complete meal to impress your guests. Enjoy the perfect combination of sweet and spicy that will have everyone returning for seconds!

10. Garlic Parmesan Ribs

These garlic parmesan ribs are a must-try to elevate your summer BBQ game. The combination of rich garlic and nutty parmesan creates a mouthwatering crust that perfectly complements the tender, smoky meat. Ideal for garlic lovers, these ribs are not just a meal; they’re an experience that will impress your guests and leave them craving more. Pair them with your favorite sides for a complete outdoor feast.

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/4 cup olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Mix the olive oil, minced garlic, grated parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Generously rub the mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
Let the ribs marinate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F, preparing it for a slow and low cooking method.
Place the marinated ribs in the smoker and smoke them for 4 hours until tender and infused with flavor.
Once cooked, let the ribs rest for 15 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute.
Slice the ribs and serve, optionally sprinkling more parmesan on top for an extra burst of flavor.

For a truly delightful experience, serve these ribs alongside garlic bread and grilled veggies, making your summer BBQ unforgettable.

11. Jamaican Jerk Ribs

Take your taste buds on a tropical vacation with these Jamaican jerk ribs! This dish features a bold and spicy jerk marinade made with allspice, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. The unique flavors of the marinade create a deliciously tangy and aromatic meal that will transport you straight to the Caribbean. Perfect for those who love a little heat in their food, these ribs are a must-try for your summer BBQ.

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/4 cup allspice
1 tablespoon dried thyme
2 Scotch bonnet peppers, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

To create the jerk marinade, combine the allspice, thyme, minced Scotch bonnet peppers, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Rub the marinade generously over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F.
Once the smoker is ready, place the marinated ribs inside and smoke them for approximately 4 hours, or until they are tender and have absorbed a rich, smoky flavor.
After smoking, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before slicing them into individual portions.
Serve the ribs hot, and consider pairing them with cooling sides like mango salsa or coconut rice to balance the heat.

Enjoy these Jamaican jerk ribs as a fiery centerpiece at outdoor cooking gatherings!

12. Italian Herb Ribs

Bring a taste of Italy to your summer BBQ with these Italian herb ribs! The blend of oregano, basil, and rosemary creates a fragrant and flavorful dish that stands out from traditional BBQ fare.

These ribs are a delightful addition to your outdoor cooking repertoire and perfect for those who crave Mediterranean flavors during the warm months. Your guests will surely appreciate the unique taste that these smoked meats bring to the table.

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Combine the olive oil, oregano, basil, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Rub the mixture generously over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
Let the ribs marinate for at least 1 hour to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
Place the marinated ribs in the smoker and smoke for about 4 hours, or until tender and fully cooked.
Once done, let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve and enjoy your Italian herb ribs with your favorite sides!

Tips:

For the best flavor, always use fresh herbs.
Pair these ribs with a simple pasta salad to complete your meal.

With these Italian herb ribs, you can elevate your summer BBQ and impress your friends and family with a delicious taste of the Mediterranean!

13. Asian Sesame Ribs

These Asian sesame ribs are necessary for anyone looking to elevate their summer BBQ game. Combining sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey creates a sumptuous marinade that infuses the ribs with a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. Not only are they delicious, but they also bring a unique twist to traditional barbecue dishes.

Perfect for outdoor cooking, these ribs are easy to prepare and can be enjoyed by family and friends alike. Serve them alongside steamed rice and stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal that will impress your guests at any cookout.

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/4 cup sesame oil
1/2 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 cloves garlic, minced

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Mix the sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and minced garlic in a bowl until well combined.
Place the baby back ribs in a large dish or resealable bag and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated—Marinate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for more flavor.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C).
Remove the ribs from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
Place the ribs in the smoker and smoke for about 3 hours. Brush the ribs with the reserved marinade every hour to keep them moist and flavorful.
Once cooked, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before slicing them into individual portions.
Serve garnished with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an authentic touch.

These Asian sesame ribs will surely be a hit at your next cookout, adding flavor to your grilling recipes!

14. Bourbon Peach Glazed Ribs

Indulge in the irresistible combination of sweet and smoky with these bourbon peach-glazed ribs. Perfect for summer BBQs, this recipe combines the rich flavors of bourbon and the freshness of peaches, creating a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on your ribs. These ribs will impress your family and friends at your next cookout with a tender finish and a mouthwatering aroma.

The marinade enhances the meat’s flavor and helps create a delightful crust as the ribs smoke. Whether you’re an experienced grill master or just starting, these bourbon peach glazed ribs will elevate your outdoor cooking game and make any summer gathering memorable.

Ingredients List:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/2 cup bourbon
1/2 cup peach preserves
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Whisk together the bourbon, peach preserves, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Place the baby back ribs in a large zip-top bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Ensure the ribs are well coated and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F. To maintain consistent cooking temperatures, ensure it’s ready before taking the ribs out.
Remove the ribs from the marinade and let any excess marinade drip off. Reserve the remaining marinade for basting.
Place the ribs in the smoker and cook for about 3.5 hours. During the last hour of cooking, brush the ribs with the reserved glaze every hour to build a flavorful crust.
Once cooked, remove the ribs from the smoker and rest for about 10 minutes. This helps to retain the juices.
After resting, slice the ribs between the bones and serve with your favorite sides.

Tips:

For an extra burst of flavor, use fresh peaches when they are in season.
Consider pairing these ribs with grilled vegetables or a refreshing salad for a summer meal.

These bourbon peach glazed ribs will add a sweet and savory twist to your summer BBQ, making it a memorable experience!

15. BBQ Rubbed Ribs with Apple Cider Glaze

Finish off your summer cookout with these BBQ-rubbed ribs enhanced with an apple cider glaze! This recipe combines a savory dry rub with a sweet apple cider glaze, creating a deliciously balanced flavor. The glaze caramelizes beautifully, resulting in a stunning finish that will impress your guests. These ribs are perfect for those who love the classic BBQ flavor with a fruity twist!

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1/4 cup BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
1/2 cup apple cider
1/4 cup brown sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Rub the BBQ rub all over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated. Allow the ribs to marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour to let the flavors penetrate.
Preheat your smoker to 250°F (121°C). This low and slow cooking method is key to tender, flavorful ribs.
Once the smoker is ready, place the marinated ribs inside. Smoke the ribs for about 4 hours, maintaining a consistent temperature. Brush the ribs with the apple cider glaze every hour to build a sweet, sticky coating.
After 4 hours, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making for more tender meat.
Slice the ribs between the bones and serve them hot, garnished with your favorite BBQ sides.

These BBQ rubbed ribs with apple cider glaze will bring a delicious conclusion to your summer cookout, leaving everyone satisfied and happy! Enjoy them alongside classic sides like baked beans and coleslaw for a memorable meal.

16. Cilantro Lime Ribs

Bright and zesty, these cilantro lime ribs bring a refreshing twist to your summer BBQ. The marinade combines fresh lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of garlic, infusing the meat with tangy goodness that perfectly balances the richness of the ribs.

The flavors meld beautifully as they smoke, creating a tender, juicy bite that bursts with freshness. Paired with a vibrant corn salsa or a light avocado salad, these ribs taste fantastic and look stunning on the plate, making them a showstopper at any gathering.

Ingredients:

2 racks of pork ribs
1/2 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

In a medium bowl, mix the lime juice, olive oil, cilantro, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to create the marinade.
Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
Remove the ribs from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Discard the marinade.
Place the ribs in the smoker bone-side and smoke for 4 to 5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
During the last 30 minutes of smoking, you can brush the ribs with a bit of extra marinade if desired for added flavor.
Once done, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for garnish.

17. Garlic and Herb Butter Ribs

Indulge in the rich flavors of garlic and herb butter ribs that will sing to your taste buds. This recipe features a decadent garlic herb butter slathered over the ribs, creating a mouthwatering glaze that caramelizes as they smoke. Combining fresh herbs like dill and parsley adds a fragrant twist, elevating the traditional BBQ experience to gourmet status. As you serve these ribs, the buttery aroma and glossy finish will entice everyone at the table, making them a must-try for special occasions.

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)

Instructions:

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
Combine the softened butter, minced garlic, dill, parsley, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and brown sugar in a mixing bowl. Mix until well combined.
Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back for better flavor absorption.
Generously apply the garlic herb butter mixture over both sides of the ribs, ensuring an even coat.
Place the ribs in the smoker bone-side down and smoke for about 4–5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C) for tender meat.
During the last hour of smoking, brush additional garlic herb butter over the ribs to create a beautiful glaze.
Once done, remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of these garlic and herb butter ribs!

18. Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Ribs

Experience a tropical paradise with sweet and spicy pineapple ribs that perfectly balance flavors. The marinade features fresh pineapple juice, brown sugar, and a kick of chili flakes, resulting in a vibrant glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. These ribs are delicious and visually stunning, with a glossy finish that makes them irresistible. Pair them with grilled pineapple slices for a harmonious presentation to impress your guests and transport them to a beachside oasis.

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs

For the Marinade:

1 cup fresh pineapple juice
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste

For Grilling:

Olive oil (for brushing)
Fresh pineapple slices (for grilling and garnish)

Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili flakes—season with salt and pepper.
Marinate the Ribs: Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (around 300°F/150°C) when cooking.
Prepare the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Brush the ribs lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Grill the Ribs: Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down. Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally and basting with the reserved marinade during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Grill the Pineapple: In the last 10 minutes of grilling, place the pineapple slices on the grill until caramelized and grill marks appear.
Serve: Once the ribs are tender and the glaze is caramelized, remove them from the grill. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with grilled pineapple slices for a beautiful presentation.

Enjoy these sweet and spicy pineapple ribs at your next summer BBQ, and watch them steal the show among your smoked meats and outdoor cooking favorites!

19. Bourbon Maple Glazed Ribs

Savor the deep, rich flavors of bourbon maple-glazed ribs that perfectly blend sweet and smoky elements. The marinade is a delightful mix of maple syrup, bourbon, and a hint of mustard, which caramelizes beautifully during cooking, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.

These ribs taste amazing and look spectacular on the grill, with their shiny finish and tantalizing aroma. Served with creamy coleslaw or cornbread, this dish becomes the highlight of any summer gathering, capturing the essence of southern comfort food.

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs
1 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup bourbon
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
Optional: extra maple syrup for basting

Instructions:

Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better flavor absorption. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the maple syrup, bourbon, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt until well combined.
Marinate the Ribs: Place the ribs in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat (about 300°F). If using a charcoal grill, arrange the coals for indirect cooking.
Cook the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the marinade and reserve the marinade for basting. Place the ribs on the grill, bone side down, and cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours, basting with the reserved marinade every 30 minutes.
Caramelize the Glaze: In the last 15 minutes of cooking, baste the ribs with extra maple syrup for a sticky finish.
Check for Doneness: The ribs are done when tender and the meat has pulled back from the bones. You can also check with a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 190°F to 203°F for optimal tenderness.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides like creamy coleslaw or cornbread. Enjoy the burst of flavors!

20. Moroccan Spiced Ribs

Take your taste buds on an exotic journey with Moroccan spiced ribs bursting with flavor. This recipe features a unique blend of cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, creating a rich and aromatic rub that transforms ordinary ribs into a culinary masterpiece.

As they smoke, the spices infuse the meat, resulting in tender ribs with a complex flavor profile that will leave everyone wanting more. Pair these ribs with couscous or a fresh salad to complete the Middle Eastern experience, and watch as they steal the spotlight at your summer BBQ.

Ingredients:

2 racks of baby back ribs
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Spice Rub:

2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground coriander
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

For the Marinade:

1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions:

Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C).
Mix all the spice rub ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then rub them with olive oil to help the spices adhere.
Generously apply the spice rub over the ribs, ensuring they are evenly coated.
Whisk together the honey, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice in a separate bowl to create the marinade.
Place the ribs in a large resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Once marinated, remove the ribs from the fridge and let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before smoking.
Place the ribs in the smoker, bone side down, and smoke for about 4–5 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
If desired, brush the ribs with additional honey for a beautiful glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Remove the ribs from the smoker and let them rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your Moroccan spiced ribs alongside couscous or a fresh salad for a delightful summer BBQ experience!

Conclusion

This summer, elevate your cookouts with these incredible smoked rib recipes!

There’s a rib recipe for everyone to enjoy, with flavors ranging from sweet and tangy to spicy and savory. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting, these recipes are designed to impress and delight your guests.

So gather your friends and family, fire up the grill, and make this summer one to remember with these delicious smoked ribs!