How Long to BBQ Spare Ribs? Time, Temp & Tips

By Bill Ohaire | Published: April 2026 | Last Updated: April 2026

Slow-cooked BBQ pork ribs with smoky glaze

Quick Answer

BBQ Spare Ribs for Low and slow: 5-6 hours at 110-120°C (225-250°F). Internal temp: 88-93°C (190-200°F). Rest for 10-15 minutes.

Spare Ribs BBQ Guide

Spare ribs are the full rib slab — bigger, meatier, and fattier than baby backs. Use the 3-2-1 method: 3 hours smoke, 2 hours wrapped in foil with butter, 1 hour unwrapped with sauce. Remove the membrane from the bone side or your rub won't penetrate and the texture will be chewy.

Cook Time

Low and slow: 5-6 hours

Temperature

110-120°C (225-250°F)

Internal Temp

88-93°C (190-200°F)

Rest Time

10-15 minutes

How to BBQ Spare Ribs — Step by Step

Prep: Bring to room temperature. Season or marinate as desired.
Preheat: Get your BBQ to 110-120°C (225-250°F). Clean and oil the grate.
Cook: Grill for Low and slow: 5-6 hours.
Check: Use a meat thermometer — target 88-93°C (190-200°F)..
Rest: 10-15 minutes before serving.

Common Mistakes

Not removing the membrane
Cooking too hot — low and slow is non-negotiable
Wrapping too tight or too long — the bark goes soggy

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long to BBQ spare ribs?

BBQ spare ribs for Low and slow: 5-6 hours at 110-120°C (225-250°F). Target internal temperature: 88-93°C (190-200°F).

What temperature for spare ribs on the BBQ?

Cook spare ribs at 110-120°C (225-250°F). Internal temperature should reach 88-93°C (190-200°F).

Related BBQ Guides

All Cooking Times Temperature Chart

Sources & References

America's Test Kitchen (YouTube)

Tested methods for ribs, chops, and pulled pork perfection.

Video

Serious Eats

Food Lab science for smoking pork low and slow.

Reference

Guga Foods (YouTube)

Creative pork BBQ experiments including belly and ribs techniques.