The cooking time for ribs on the grill varies depending on the method and type of ribs, but here are common approaches:
- A popular method is to grill ribs over low heat for about 1 hour total: start by grilling the ribs meat-side down with the lid closed for 45 minutes, then brush with BBQ sauce, flip, and grill for another 10-15 minutes until caramelized and tender
- Another method involves cooking ribs indirectly at 300°F for 90 minutes to 2 hours wrapped in foil with some liquid (like chicken stock and vinegar), then finishing them directly on the grill at higher heat with BBQ sauce for 10-20 minutes to get a sticky glaze
- For a low and slow approach, ribs can be grilled covered at 300°F for 1 to 2 hours until the internal temperature reaches 180-190°F for tenderness, then basted with glaze and cooked a few more minutes to finish
- Some quicker methods grill ribs over medium heat for about 20-30 minutes, flipping every few minutes to brown all sides, but this is less common for tender ribs and more for crispier results
- A typical pork rib cook time on a medium grill is about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, including resting time, with turning and basting steps incorporated
In summary, for tender, well-cooked ribs, plan on about 1.5 to 2 hours total on the grill using indirect heat at around 300°F, with finishing over direct heat for saucing and caramelizing
. For faster grilling, about 1 hour with careful turning and saucing can work well
. Key points:
- Preheat grill to about 300°F for indirect cooking.
- Grill ribs covered for 1 to 2 hours until tender.
- Finish ribs over direct heat with BBQ sauce for 10-20 minutes.
- Rest ribs 10-15 minutes before serving.
This approach balances tenderness and flavor for grilled ribs.
