These Copycat Texas Roadhouse Ribs are falling-off-the-bone tender and coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that makes you want to lick your fingers clean. Perfect for any barbecue lover!
I love how easy it is to make these ribs at home, especially when I have friends over. Just throw them in the oven, and the smell will have everyone gathering around—trust me on this!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These ribs are tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use pork loin ribs, but baby back ribs are my favorite for this recipe due to their juiciness.
Paprika: This adds a rich color and mild flavor. If you want a smokier taste, switch it with smoked paprika. Regular paprika works just as well too if it’s what you have on hand.
Brown Sugar: It gives a sweet touch to the rub. If you’re avoiding sugar, try using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like Stevia, but adjust to taste as some may be sweeter.
BBQ Sauce: For the most authentic flavor, use a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce. If you’re looking to make this healthier, opt for a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce to control the ingredients.
How Do You Get Tender Ribs?
Achieving tender ribs depends on a few key steps. The main technique is slow cooking, which breaks down the tough fibers over time. Here’s how to ensure your ribs turn out just right:
- Remove the Membrane: This step is crucial! Removing the tough membrane from the backside allows the flavors to penetrate the meat better and leads to a more tender product.
- Low and Slow: Cooking the ribs at a low temperature (275°F) for a longer period (2.5 to 3 hours) helps them to become super tender. Be patient; it’s worth the wait!
- Wrap Them Up: Wrapping ribs in foil helps keep moisture in. The steam created while baking helps break down tough meat tissues.
With these tips in mind, your Copycat Texas Roadhouse Ribs will surely impress everyone around your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 2 to 2.5 pounds each)
- 1/4 cup paprika
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup apple juice or apple cider
- 1 cup Texas Roadhouse style BBQ sauce (or your favorite sweet BBQ sauce)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes for prep and about 2.5 to 3 hours for cooking in the oven. So, set aside around 3 to 3.5 hours total, with most of that being hands-off time while the ribs cook low and slow in the oven.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature will help the ribs cook slowly and become super tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Flip the ribs so the bone side is facing up. Use a knife to carefully slide under the thin, shiny membrane and gently peel it off. Removing this membrane helps make the ribs more tender.
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a medium bowl, mix together the paprika, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). This mixture will give the ribs an amazing flavor!
4. Season the Ribs:
Generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs, making sure to cover every area. This step is crucial for maximizing flavor!
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Place the ribs meaty side up on a large sheet of aluminum foil. Carefully pour the apple juice underneath the ribs on the foil, avoiding the top of the meat. This steam will help keep the ribs juicy. Then, wrap the foil tightly around the ribs, sealing it well.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Put the wrapped ribs in the preheated oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours. They’re done when they are very tender and meat starts to pull away from the bones.
7. Unwrap and Sauce Up:
Once baked, remove the ribs from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil. Place the ribs on a baking sheet. Now, brush both sides of the ribs generously with BBQ sauce, ensuring they are well coated.
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and return the ribs to the oven, uncovered. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the BBQ sauce is bubbly and caramelized. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice them up and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Get ready for some juicy, flavorful ribs that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Enjoy your homemade Copycat Texas Roadhouse Ribs that are flavorful, tender, and irresistibly saucy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness, you can also use spare ribs. Just keep in mind that spare ribs may take a bit longer to cook, so adjust the cooking time as needed.
What Can I Substitute for Apple Juice?
If you don’t have apple juice or cider on hand, feel free to use other fruit juices like pear or white grape juice. For a non-sweet option, you can substitute with chicken broth or even water with a splash of vinegar for acidity.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them moist when reheating, consider wrapping them in foil and gently warming them in the oven or microwave with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce.
Can I Make These Ribs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs through the wrapping stage and refrigerate them overnight. When you’re ready to cook, just bake them as directed. You can also freeze them after cooking; just make sure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
