Sticky Honey BBQ Beef Ribs

Few things in life are as satisfying as a rack of sticky, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs drenched in a sweet and smoky honey BBQ sauce. These ribs are slow-cooked to tender perfection, then caramelized on the grill (or in the oven) for a rich, finger-licking glaze. Whether you're hosting a backyard BBQ or just craving some serious comfort food, this recipe will hit the spot.

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Sticky Honey BBQ Beef Ribs

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 3 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Mixing bowls
• Grill or oven broiler
• saucepan
• Basting brush

Ingredients

  

For the Ribs

• 2 racks of beef back ribs about 4-5 lbs total
• 1 tbsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cayenne pepper optional for heat

For the Honey BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup
• ½ cup honey
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper optional

Instructions

 

Prepare the Ribs

1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness. Pat dry with paper towels.

Season the Ribs

1. Mix salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne in a bowl. Rub generously over the ribs.
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Slow Cook the Ribs

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 3 hours until tender.

Make the Honey BBQ Sauce

1. While the ribs are cooking, combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
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Glaze & Grill

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (or use your oven's broiler). Brush the ribs generously with the honey BBQ sauce and grill for about 5 minutes per side, allowing the sauce to caramelize.

Serve

1. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra sauce and enjoy!

Pairings

These sticky honey BBQ beef ribs go perfectly with:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Garlic mashed potatoes
• Cornbread
• Grilled corn on the cob
• A cold glass of iced tea or a smoky bourbon cocktail

FAQs

1. What type of ribs should I use?

Beef back ribs are ideal for this recipe since they have great marbling and become tender when slow-cooked. Short ribs can also work but will require a longer cooking time.

2. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook the seasoned ribs on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours, then finish on the grill or broiler with the sauce.

3. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F for 15 minutes or until warmed through.