Costillas BBQ

Costillas BBQ

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Juicy, fall-off-the-bone tender, and coated in a rich, sticky barbecue sauce—Costillas BBQ (BBQ Ribs) are a timeless classic that never go out of style. Whether you’re grilling outdoors in summer or baking them slow and low in your kitchen, these ribs deliver bold, smoky flavor that’s hard to resist.Costillas BBQ

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  1. Incredibly Tender Texture – Cooked low and slow, the ribs become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

  2. Customizable Sauce – Use your favorite BBQ sauce or make a homemade version.

  3. Perfect for Gatherings – Ideal for cookouts, game day, or Sunday dinner.

  4. Easy Techniques – With simple steps, anyone can master juicy ribs at home.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need for your homemade Costillas BBQ:

For the Ribs:

  • 2 full racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

  • 1 tbsp garlic powder

  • 1 tbsp onion powder

  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika

  • 1 tsp chili powder

  • 1 tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp salt

  • 1 tsp cumin

For the BBQ Sauce (Optional, or use store-bought):

  • 1 cup ketchup

  • 1/3 cup brown sugar

  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 tsp mustard

  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Timing & Servings

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes

  • Cook Time: 2.5 to 3 hours

  • Total Time: Around 3 hours

  • Servings: 4–6 people

Step-by-Step Instructions for Costillas BBQ

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Remove the thin silver membrane from the back of the ribs. This ensures better texture and allows flavors to penetrate the meat.

Step 2: Make the Dry Rub

In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, chili powder, pepper, salt, and cumin. Rub generously over both sides of the ribs.

Step 3: Marinate (Optional but Recommended)

Wrap the seasoned ribs in foil and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight. This enhances flavor and tenderness.

Step 4: Preheat the Oven or Grill

  • Oven Method: Preheat to 300°F (150°C).

  • Grill Method: Heat one side of the grill to medium-low and keep the other side off for indirect cooking.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

  • Oven: Place foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 2.5 hours.

  • Grill: Cook ribs over indirect heat for 2.5 hours with the lid closed.

Step 6: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

While the ribs are cooking, combine all sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer on low for 15–20 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 7: Unwrap and Sauce the Ribs

After the ribs are cooked, unwrap and brush with BBQ sauce. For extra flavor, add another coat of sauce just before serving.

Step 8: Broil or Grill for a Caramelized Finish

  • Oven: Broil for 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

  • Grill: Grill over direct heat for 5 minutes, flipping once.

Costillas BBQ

Tips for the Best Costillas BBQ

Use a Meat Thermometer

Cook ribs to an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C) for tenderness.

Rest Before Serving

Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes after cooking to retain their juices.

Use Foil or Butcher Paper

Wrapping helps trap moisture and makes the ribs fall-off-the-bone tender.

Serving Suggestions

Classic Pairings

  • Coleslaw

  • Corn on the cob

  • Baked beans

  • Macaroni and cheese

Fresh and Light Options

  • Mixed green salad

  • Grilled vegetables

  • Watermelon slices

  • Cornbread

Flavor Variations

Spicy Chipotle Ribs

Add chipotle powder or minced chipotle peppers in adobo to the BBQ sauce.

Honey-Garlic Ribs

Mix honey and minced garlic into the sauce for a sweet and sticky glaze.

Asian-Inspired Ribs

Swap BBQ sauce for hoisin, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger-based glaze.

How to Store and Reheat

Refrigeration

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Wrap cooled ribs in foil, place in a freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven wrapped in foil for 20 minutes, or microwave for a few minutes.

Make-Ahead Tips

  • Dry Rub Ahead: Rub the ribs a day in advance to deepen the flavor.

  • Pre-Cook & Reheat: Cook the ribs the day before and simply reheat and glaze before serving.

BBQ Ribs on the Smoker

Want a more authentic barbecue taste?

  • Use a smoker set to 225°F (107°C).

  • Smoke ribs with wood chips like hickory or applewood.

  • Follow a 3-2-1 method: 3 hours smoke, 2 hours wrapped, 1 hour unwrapped with sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Skipping the Membrane – It prevents seasoning from penetrating the meat.

  2. Cooking Too Fast – Low and slow cooking is key for tender ribs.

  3. Over-saucing Early – Sauce too early and it can burn; wait until the last 30 minutes.

  4. Not Letting Them Rest – Resting after cooking locks in the juices.

FAQs

Can I use beef ribs instead of pork?

Yes, beef ribs are delicious too but require longer cooking due to their size.

What’s the best cut for Costillas BBQ?

Baby back ribs are more tender, while spare ribs have more flavor and meat.

Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?

Air fryers work best for reheating or smaller rib portions. For full racks, use an oven or grill.

How do I know when ribs are done?

The meat should pull back from the bone and reach at least 190°F (88°C) internally.

Is it better to boil ribs before cooking?

Boiling can make the meat mushy. Oven or grill roasting is best for texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Costillas BBQ bring the smoky, saucy joy of ribs straight to your kitchen or backyard. Whether you’re using the oven, grill, or smoker, the secret is slow cooking, a flavorful rub, and just the right amount of sticky, caramelized sauce. Serve them at your next family dinner or summer party and watch them disappear—bone by bone.