Confession time: ribs used to intimidate me. I thought they were messy, time-consuming, and something only “grill masters” could pull off. But one weekend when I was totally craving something bold and spicy, I decided to try. And wow. These ribs changed everything. They’re easy, flavorful, and the meat practically falls off the bone. My husband? Obsessed. The kids? Messy-faced and happy. Me? Proud and full. You’re gonna want to keep this one on repeat.

Ingredients:

For the Ribs:

• 2 racks pork baby back ribs (about 4 lbs)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper (or more if you like it hot!)

For the Spicy Glaze:

• ½ cup ketchup

• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1 tbsp honey

• 1 tbsp hot sauce (Frank’s RedHot or your fave)

• 1 tsp chili powder

• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ribs:
Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs. Rub with olive oil. Mix dry rub ingredients and massage evenly over the ribs. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for max flavor).

2. Grill the Ribs (Low & Slow):
Preheat grill to 300°F. Grill ribs over indirect heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, turning occasionally. Keep the lid closed as much as possible to trap the heat.

3. Make the Glaze:
While the ribs are cooking, combine all glaze ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Finish & Serve:
Brush the glaze over the ribs during the last 15–20 minutes of grilling. Flip and baste a couple times to caramelize the glaze. Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

Sarah’s Tips:

• No grill? Bake the ribs covered at 300°F for 2.5 hours, then broil with glaze for 5–10 minutes.

• Make it family friendly: Cut back on the cayenne and hot sauce, and let each person add extra heat if they want.

• Serve with: Corn on the cob, sweet potato wedges, or a crisp summer slaw!

Nutrition (per serving, serves 6):

• Calories: 410

• Protein: 28g

• Carbs: 18g

• Fat: 26g

• Fiber: 1g

• Sugar: 13g