Busy Day Barbecue Ribs
Juicy, tender barbecue ribs with rich sauce flavor, perfect for quick, satisfying meals on busy days, loved by barbecue enthusiasts and families alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat your microwave oven.
- Place the 2 lb. of country spareribs in a 2-quart Pyrex dish.
- Pour the 18 oz. jar of Bulls Eye barbecue sauce over the ribs.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the dish and microwave until the ribs are cooked through and tender, approximately 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, allow the ribs to marinate in the barbecue sauce for at least 30 minutes before microwaving to enhance the flavor. If you prefer a smoky taste, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke or using a smoked barbecue sauce as a substitute. Adjust the cooking time based on the wattage of your microwave; thicker ribs may require a few extra minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Busy Day Barbecue Ribs with classic sides like coleslaw or cornbread for a delicious meal. They pair beautifully with Refrigerator Pickles for a refreshing crunch. For a complete dinner, offer a side of Wite Beans And Rice to complement the savory flavors of the ribs.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the ribs in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. For best flavor, consider reheating on a grill or stovetop.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Busy Day Barbecue Ribs contains roughly 214 calories, with 17g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1334mg per serving (58% of the Daily Value).
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 a different type of barbecue sauce?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute Bulls Eye barbecue sauce with your favorite brand or flavor. A sweet and tangy sauce works well, or you could try a spicy variant for an added kick. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly based on the sauce's consistency.
Can I cook the ribs in the oven instead?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and place the ribs in a covered baking dish. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, basting with the barbecue sauce halfway through, until tender. This method provides a different texture and flavor, giving the ribs a nice caramelized crust.
What can I do if the ribs are tough after microwaving?
If the ribs are still tough, they may need additional cooking time. Cover them and microwave in 1-minute increments until they reach the desired tenderness. Alternatively, transferring them to a slow cooker with a bit of extra barbecue sauce can help them become more tender over time.
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).