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Memphis Dry Rub Baby Back Ribs Recipe Easy Authentic BBQ Guide

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This recipe delivers flavorful Memphis-style dry rub baby back ribs that are smoky, tender, and easy to make at home without a smoker. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 racks baby back ribs (about 2.5 to 3 pounds total)
  • 2 tablespoons paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed (light or dark)
  • 1 tablespoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon dry mustard powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
  • Optional for serving: apple cider vinegar or BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Prep the ribs (15 minutes): Remove the silver skin membrane from the bone side of the ribs using a sharp knife and paper towel for grip.
  2. Mix the dry rub (5 minutes): Combine paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, dry mustard, and chili powder in a mixing bowl and stir well.
  3. Apply the rub (10 minutes): Pat ribs dry and generously rub the spice mix all over both sides. Let sit for 30 minutes at room temperature or up to overnight in the fridge wrapped tightly.
  4. Preheat oven or grill (10 minutes): Set oven to 275°F (135°C) or prepare grill for indirect heat at the same temperature.
  5. Cook the ribs (2.5 to 3 hours): Place ribs bone-side down on a foil-lined baking sheet or grill rack. Cover tightly with foil and cook until tender, checking after 2 hours.
  6. Optional glaze or finish (10 minutes): Remove foil, brush ribs with BBQ sauce or apple cider vinegar, and return to heat uncovered for 10 minutes to caramelize.
  7. Rest and serve (10 minutes): Let ribs rest before slicing between bones to lock in juices.

Notes

Remove the silver skin membrane for tender ribs. Cook low and slow at 275°F to avoid drying out. Wrap ribs tightly in foil to trap moisture. Use a meat thermometer to check for internal temperature of 190-203°F for perfect tenderness. Spritz ribs occasionally with apple juice or water when grilling to keep moist. For a spicier version, increase cayenne or add chipotle powder. For gluten-free, ensure all spices are certified gluten-free.

Nutrition

Keywords: Memphis ribs, dry rub ribs, baby back ribs, BBQ ribs, easy ribs recipe, smoky ribs, authentic Memphis BBQ

Find it online: https://sweetstirring.com/memphis-dry-rub-baby-back-ribs-recipe-easy-authentic-bbq-guide/