Barbecued Ribs

Prep: 10 min Cook: 105 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Barbecued ribs are a classic American dish that delivers a delightful combination of smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors. The tender meat falls off the bone, making it perfect for family gatherings or summer cookouts. These ribs are sure to impress anyone who loves hearty comfort food.

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Ingredients

  • 3 to 4 lb. spareribs
  • 4 small onions, chopped
  • 2 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 Tbsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. garlic powder
  • 1 tsp. paprika
  • 1/2 tsp. red pepper
  • 1 c. tomato sauce
  • 3/4 c. water
  • 3/4 c. catsup
  • 2 Tbsp. brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Wash and pat dry the ribs. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Place in a roasting pan and bake in a 375° oven for 50 minutes, covered.
  3. Combine remaining ingredients and pour over meat.
  4. Reduce heat to 350°.
  5. Continue cooking for another 45 to 55 minutes, uncovered. Baste occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For the best flavor, marinate the ribs in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, consider adding more brown sugar or using honey. Substitute apple cider vinegar for a milder taste. For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the sauce. Adjust seasoning to your taste, especially if using low-sodium ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for a satisfying meal. They pair beautifully with Yummy Hot Cider for a comforting fall dinner. For a fresh twist, consider a simple salad or grilled vegetables. Don’t forget to have extra sauce on the side for dipping!

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. For a quick reheat, use the microwave, but be careful not to overcook, as this can dry them out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Ribs contains roughly 662 calories, with 11g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (167% of the Daily Value), iron (85% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2041mg per serving (89% of the Daily Value).

662 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 11.2g 22% DV
Total Fat 9.1g 12% DV
Carbs 150.2g 55% DV
Fiber 21.9g 78% DV
Sugar 118g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2040.7mg 89% DV
Potassium 1895.3mg 40% DV
Cholesterol 5.2mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1500.4mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 15.3mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 267mg 21% DV
Iron 15.4mg 85% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use baby back ribs instead of spareribs?

Yes, baby back ribs can be used as a substitute for spareribs. They are generally more tender and cook faster, so reduce the cooking time by about 10-15 minutes. Adjust the sauce quantity if needed to ensure full flavor coverage.

What can I serve with barbecued ribs?

Barbecued ribs are delicious with traditional sides like macaroni and cheese, potato salad, or corn on the cob. For a lighter option, try serving them with a green salad or roasted vegetables. Pairing with a refreshing drink like Lime-Pineapple Punch can also enhance the meal.

How do I know when the ribs are done cooking?

Ribs are done when the meat is tender and pulls away easily from the bone. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for tender ribs. Always check for doneness before serving.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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