These Easy Copycat Texas Roadhouse BBQ Ribs are tender, juicy, and slathered in a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for a fun family dinner or weekend treat!
I love that these ribs are so simple to make at home! You just cook them low and slow, then brush on that BBQ sauce. It feels special, but it’s really easy. Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These are ideal for juicy, tender ribs. If you prefer a leaner option, try using pork loin ribs, but they might not be as tender.
Spices: Paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder are key for flavor. If you’re out of paprika, smoked paprika adds a nice touch. You can skip the cayenne or decrease it if you want less heat.
Apple Juice or Water: Apple juice adds a hint of sweetness and flavor. You can swap it for beef broth for a richer taste or just use plain water if you prefer.
Barbecue Sauce: While store-bought makes it easy, homemade sauce gives a personal touch. Experiment with different sauces to find your favorite flavor.
How Do You Achieve Tender, Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs?
The key to tender ribs lies in low and slow cooking. This method breaks down the collagen in the meat, making it super tender.
- Start by removing the membrane from the ribs. This ensures better flavor absorption and tenderness.
- Cook the ribs covered in foil for a couple of hours. This steams the ribs, creating moisture.
- Finish with a high-temperature bake or on the grill to caramelize the barbecue sauce for that delicious sticky exterior.
Patience is crucial, so resist the urge to rush through the cooking! Enjoy the process and the tasty rewards at the end!
Easy Copycat Texas Roadhouse BBQ Ribs
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 3-4 pounds total)
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup apple juice or water (for moist cooking)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade, for brushing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 3.5 to 4 hours total, including 30 minutes of prep time and 2.5 to 3 hours for baking. A little patience is key, but the tender, fall-off-the-bone results are worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
First, preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature helps cook the ribs slowly, making them tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Ribs
Carefully remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the meat to become more tender and absorb the flavors of the rub better.
3. Mix the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper. This will create a flavorful dry rub for your ribs.
4. Season the Ribs
Evenly rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated.
5. Prepare for Baking
Place the ribs meat-side up on a large piece of aluminum foil. Pour the apple juice or water underneath the ribs to create steam and keep them moist while baking.
6. Wrap and Bake
Wrap the ribs tightly with the foil, making sure the edges are sealed well. Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake them in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulling away from the bone.
7. Unwrap and Drain
Once baked, remove the ribs from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil to avoid steam burns. Drain any excess liquid to prepare for the final cooking step.
8. Finish with BBQ Sauce
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) or preheat your grill. Generously brush barbecue sauce all over the ribs, coating them well on all sides.
9. Caramelize the Sauce
Place the ribs back in the oven or on the grill for 10-15 minutes. Baste with more sauce halfway through until the sauce caramelizes and becomes sticky.
10. Cut and Serve
Once done, remove the ribs from heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Cut between the bones into individual ribs and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Enjoy your delicious, tender, and flavorful Copycat Texas Roadhouse BBQ ribs with family and friends!
FAQ: Easy Copycat Texas Roadhouse BBQ Ribs
Can I Use Other Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs work great for this recipe, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the size and type of ribs used, so check for tenderness.
How Can I Make These Ribs Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can increase the cayenne pepper in the dry rub or add a dash of hot sauce to your barbecue sauce. You could also try using a spicy barbecue sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Marinate the Ribs Overnight?
Definitely! Marinating the ribs with the dry rub overnight can enhance the flavor. Just cover the seasoned ribs with plastic wrap and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also grill them to help re-crisp the outside.
