Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs: Finger-Licking Goodness for Every Family Gathering 🍖🔥🍽️
1. Introduction to Jay’s Famous BBQ Ribs

If you’re a fan of flavor-packed BBQ delights, then you’ve hit the jackpot with Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs! This mouth-watering recipe transforms ordinary pork ribs into a culinary masterpiece. Imagine tender, juicy ribs, falling off the bone, slathered in a delectable homemade barbecue sauce that’s both sweet and savory. It’s a taste sensation sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Perfect for family gatherings, summer cookouts, or even a cozy night in, these BBQ ribs are always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re an experienced pitmaster or a novice cook, this recipe is designed to deliver BBQ perfection every time. Prepare to impress your loved ones with this easy-to-follow guide, featuring step-by-step instructions for creating unforgettable BBQ ribs. Looking for other delicious dinner options? Check out our Dinner Recipes for more inspiration.
These Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs are inspired by [Grill, Interrupted](https://modernfamily.fandom.com/wiki/Grill,_Interrupted), and promise a delightful cooking experience with a rewarding, flavorful outcome.
2. Ingredients for Unforgettable BBQ Ribs
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika – adds a rich, smoky flavor
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder – for that essential savory note
- 1 tablespoon onion powder – enhances the overall flavor profile
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper – a dash for a little heat
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper – for depth and complexity
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – to bring out all the flavors
- 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce – homemade or store-bought works!
- Wood chips (for smoking, optional) – such as hickory or applewood
Need more recipe options? Explore our recipe index for something new!
3. Tools Required for Perfect BBQ Ribs
- Grill or smoker – essential for the BBQ experience
- Meat thermometer – to ensure perfectly cooked ribs
- Whisk – for mixing the spice rub
- Aluminum foil – for wrapping the ribs during cooking (optional)
- Sharp knife – for trimming the ribs
- Basting brush – for applying barbecue sauce
4. Preparation Steps: Mastering the Art of BBQ Ribs
Step 1: Trim the Ribs for Even Cooking

Start by trimming excess fat from the pork ribs. While some fat is desirable for flavor, too much can prevent the spices and smoke from penetrating the meat effectively. Use a sharp knife to carefully remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs, if present. This membrane can become tough and chewy during cooking. Proper trimming ensures the ribs cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully, resulting in tender, juicy BBQ ribs.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade for Flavor Infusion

Now it’s time to build those layers of flavor! In a bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt. This spice blend is the foundation of your BBQ ribs’ distinctive taste. Rub this spice mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, ensuring an even coating. Really massage the spices into the meat for maximum flavor penetration. Then, cover the ribs tightly with plastic wrap and let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for a deeper, more intense flavor infusion. A longer marinating time allows the spices to fully penetrate the meat, resulting in truly exceptional BBQ ribs. Try also our The Sopranos Capicola platter, also a great recipe.
Step 3: Grill the Ribs to Perfection

Preheat your grill to a medium-low heat, ideally around 225°F (107°C). This low and slow cooking method is key to achieving fall-off-the-bone tenderness. If using a gas grill, use only one or two burners to create an indirect heat zone. Place the ribs bone-side down on the indirect heat side of the grill and cook them for approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, or until they are very tender. If using a smoker, maintain a steady temperature and add wood chips (such as hickory or applewood) to the smoker box for that characteristic smoky flavor. Maintaining steady temperatures throughout the cooking process is vital for achieving the best results with your BBQ ribs.
Craving something different? How about Scooby-Doo Pizza Rolls for a fun alternative?
Step 4: Glaze and Serve Your BBQ Ribs

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, it’s time to glaze those BBQ ribs! Brush your favorite barbecue sauce generously over the ribs, ensuring every nook and cranny is coated in that sweet and tangy goodness. This glazing step not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful, glossy finish to the ribs. Continue cooking until the ribs are deeply caramelized and the sauce has set. Once they are incredibly tender and have a slightly sticky exterior, remove them from the grill. Allow the ribs to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in even juicier and more flavorful BBQ ribs.
Looking for another breakfast recipe? Check out Breaking Bad Bacon, Eggs, and Pancakes for a different kind of deliciousness.
5. Serving Suggestions for BBQ Ribs
Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs are the star of any BBQ spread, but they truly shine when paired with classic sides. Creamy coleslaw provides a cool and refreshing contrast to the richness of the ribs, while baked beans add a savory and comforting element. Corn on the cob, grilled to perfection and slathered in butter, is another essential side dish for any BBQ. To elevate your family meal, consider adding a vibrant fresh salad or grilled vegetables on the side. Don’t forget the ice-cold beverages to complete the BBQ experience!
For a thematic breakfast, try How I Met Your Mother Breakfast at MacLaren’s!
6. Storage Tips for Leftover BBQ Ribs
If you happen to have any leftovers (which is a rare occurrence!), it’s important to store them properly to maintain their flavor and texture. First, allow the ribs to cool completely. Then, store the leftover BBQ ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag or airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, gently warm the ribs in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F or 120°C) for the best results. This will help prevent them from drying out. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be careful not to overheat them, as this can make them tough and dry.
Check out our recipe for The Mandalorian Thermal Detonator Eggs; you will love it.
7. FAQs: Your BBQ Ribs Questions Answered
What type of ribs are best for this BBQ recipe?
Pork baby back ribs and spare ribs are both excellent choices for this BBQ recipe. Baby back ribs are leaner and more tender, while spare ribs have more fat and a richer flavor. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preference.
Can I make these ribs in the oven if I don’t have a grill or smoker?
Absolutely! You can achieve delicious results by cooking the ribs low and slow in the oven. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C), place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil, and cook for about 3 to 4 hours, or until they are very tender. You can even add a pan of water to the bottom of the oven to create a more humid environment, which will help keep the ribs moist.
Can I use store-bought BBQ sauce, or is homemade essential?
While homemade barbecue sauce offers the opportunity to customize the flavors to your exact preferences, any quality store-bought BBQ sauce will work well in this recipe. Look for a sauce that you enjoy the taste of and that complements the flavors of the spice rub.
8. Alternative Cooking Methods for BBQ Ribs
While grilling and smoking are the most traditional methods for cooking BBQ ribs, there are other options available if you prefer. Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs can also be prepared in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. For the slow cooker, place the ribs in the slow cooker, add the marinade, and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the ribs are very tender. For the Instant Pot, use the pressure cooking function for 30 minutes followed by a natural pressure release. These alternative methods offer convenience and can be great options for busy weeknights.
For a quick snack between meals, give Grey’s Anatomy Granola Bar Snack a try!
9. Conclusion: Enjoy Your Delicious BBQ Ribs!
Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs are not only easy to make, but they’re also bursting with flavor, making them the ideal dish for family gatherings, parties, or simple weeknight dinners. This recipe provides a surefire way to create delicious, tender ribs that everyone will love. So fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and get ready for a culinary adventure. With a little practice, you’ll be a BBQ ribs master in no time, and your family and friends will be begging for more. Enjoy your cooking adventure and prepare for compliments around the table!
Don’t forget dessert! Try our The Good Place Banana Cream Pie.
For a late-night treat, check out Stranger Things Eggo Sundae!
Print
Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs
Savor the deliciousness of Modern Family Jay’s BBQ Ribs! This recipe features tender, juicy pork ribs coated in a flavorful homemade barbecue sauce, perfect for family gatherings and summer cookouts.
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork ribs
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce
- Wood chips (for smoking, optional)
Instructions
- Trim excess fat from the pork ribs and remove the silver skin for even cooking.
- Mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a bowl. Rub this spice blend over both sides of the ribs and marinate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
- Preheat your grill to medium-low heat (225°F/107°C) and cook the ribs bone-side down for 2.5 to 3 hours, adding wood chips if using a smoker.
- Brush barbecue sauce over the ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking, then remove from the grill once tender and caramelized. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Serve ribs with sides like coleslaw and corn on the cob for a classic BBQ experience.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Alternative cooking methods include oven baking, slow cooking, or using an Instant Pot for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Carnivore
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib
- Calories: 350 Kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg