Smoky BBQ Ribs Served with Crunchy Coleslaw

Nothing says backyard BBQ like tender, smoky BBQ ribs paired with refreshing, crunchy coleslaw. These ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, coated in a flavorful spice rub, and finished with a rich, caramelized BBQ glaze. The tangy coleslaw adds the perfect crunch, balancing out the smoky, savory flavors.

Why You’ll Love This BBQ Ribs & Coleslaw Recipe

• Fall-off-the-bone tender – Slow-cooked and juicy ribs with deep smoky flavors.
• Perfectly balanced – Sweet and spicy ribs meet tangy and crunchy coleslaw.
• Great for gatherings – Ideal for BBQs, family dinners, and summer cookouts.

Ingredients for Smoky BBQ Ribs & Crunchy Coleslaw

For the BBQ Ribs:

• 2 racks baby back ribs
• ¼ cup olive oil
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)

For the Coleslaw:

• 4 cups shredded cabbage (green or purple)
• 1 medium carrot, shredded
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the BBQ Ribs

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place a wire rack on top.
2. Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs and pat dry with paper towels.
3. Rub olive oil evenly over both sides of the ribs.

2. Make the Spice Rub & Season the Ribs

1. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin.
2. Generously coat the ribs with the spice rub, pressing it into the meat.

3. Bake the Ribs

1. Place the ribs bone side down on the wire rack.
2. Cover with foil and bake for 2.5–3 hours until tender.

4. Add the BBQ Sauce & Caramelize

1. Remove the foil and brush the ribs generously with BBQ sauce.
2. Return to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
3. Once done, let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

5. Prepare the Coleslaw

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage and shredded carrot.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and carrot mixture, toss well, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.

6. Serve & Enjoy

1. Slice the ribs into individual pieces and serve alongside the crunchy coleslaw.
2. Pair with cornbread, baked beans, or grilled corn on the cob for the ultimate BBQ feast!

Tips for the Best BBQ Ribs & Coleslaw

1. For extra smokiness, grill the ribs for the last 10 minutes instead of baking.
2. Marinate the ribs overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Let the coleslaw chill for at least an hour—it tastes even better the next day!
4. Spice it up! Add a pinch of cayenne to the rub or jalapeños to the coleslaw.

What to Serve with BBQ Ribs & Coleslaw

Complete your meal with these delicious sides:

• Cornbread
• Baked beans
• Grilled corn on the cob
• Mac and cheese
• Garlic butter potatoes

More BBQ & Comfort Food Recipes to Try

Check out these mouthwatering recipes:

• Mini Apple Pies
• Baked Ham and Cheese Croissants
• Footlong Chili Cheese Coney

Find even more recipes on our Pinterest page.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Make Ahead: Prep the ribs with the spice rub and refrigerate overnight for maximum flavor.
• Storage: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat ribs in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals.
• Freezing: Wrap cooked ribs in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information (per serving, including coleslaw)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbohydrates: 22 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Sugar: 12 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fiber: 4 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg

Conclusion

These Smoky BBQ Ribs with Crunchy Coleslaw are tender, flavorful, and perfect for any BBQ gathering. The sweet and smoky ribs combined with the refreshing, tangy coleslaw create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Save this recipe and pin it on Pinterest for easy access! Try it today!

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