These Copycat Texas Roadhouse Ribs are tender and full of flavor, just like the ones you love at the restaurant! Smothered in a tasty homemade BBQ sauce, they’re simply irresistible.
Cooking them can feel like a big hug from your oven! I like to make them on a weekend and enjoy every saucy bite with friends and family. Yum! 🤤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are my favorite for their tenderness. If you’re looking for a more economical choice, spare ribs can work too, but they might take a little longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This helps the seasoning stick to the ribs. You can substitute with vegetable oil or even melted butter for a richer flavor.
Kosher Salt: It’s great for seasoning. If you have table salt, use a little less because it’s more concentrated. Sea salt could work, too.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelization. If you’re out, white sugar can replace it, but brown sugar brings a nice depth of flavor.
BBQ Sauce Ingredients: If you want a healthier version, low-sugar ketchup or homemade BBQ sauce can be great alternatives. For heat, add a dash of hot sauce instead of cayenne!
How Do I Remove the Silver Skin from Ribs?
Removing the silver skin is important for tenderness! This tough membrane can prevent flavors from penetrating the meat. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Use a sharp knife to gently slide under the edge of the membrane on one end of the rack.
- Once you have a little flap, grip it with a paper towel for better traction.
- Pull it off gently, working from one end to the other, keeping it as intact as possible.
This simple step can make a big difference in the final texture! Don’t rush it—take your time, and your ribs will turn out deliciously tender.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Ribs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 3-4 pounds)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 3 to 3.5 hours in total. You’ll need around 30 minutes for preparation, including seasoning the ribs and making the BBQ sauce, then about 2.5 to 3 hours of baking time. If you choose to broil them at the end, add an extra 5 minutes. So, grab your favorite drink and relax while those ribs cook low and slow!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking method will help tenderize the ribs and make them super flavorful.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Carefully remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs—they can be tough if left on. Just slide a sharp knife under the edge and gently pull it off. Your ribs will be much more tender without it!
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat!). Mix it well. This mixture will give your ribs a delicious flavor.
4. Season the Ribs:
Now, rub the olive oil all over the ribs to help the seasoning stick. Then, sprinkle that flavorful dry rub all over the ribs, covering both sides generously.
5. Wrap and Bake:
Wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil to keep the moisture in. Place them on a baking sheet and pop them into your preheated oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are tender.
6. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
While the ribs are baking, make the BBQ sauce! In a saucepan, mix together ketchup, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens up nicely.
7. Glaze the Ribs:
Once your ribs are done baking, carefully unwrap the foil (watch out for hot steam!). Brush both sides generously with the BBQ sauce you just made.
8. Optional Broiling:
If you love a caramelized topping, place the ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing them up. Serve them with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy your mouthwatering Copycat Texas Roadhouse Ribs with family and friends!
Bon Appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Yes! While baby back ribs are great for their tenderness, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, with spare ribs generally requiring a bit more time.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs and the BBQ sauce a day in advance. Just keep the dry-rubbed ribs wrapped in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven before glazing with BBQ sauce. Add a few minutes to reheating time to ensure they are warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, wrap them in foil to keep them moist, and warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Ribs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked ribs! Just let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven with BBQ sauce to regain that delicious flavor!
