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Skeleton Rib BBQ Pork Bites

These Skeleton Rib BBQ Pork Bites are tender, smoky-sweet ribs that make an exciting and cozy dish, perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Barbecue
Calories: 3100
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 2 racks baby back pork ribs (about 2 1/2 lbs each), membrane removed from the back of each rack Choose meaty and evenly trimmed racks.
For the Dry Rub
  • 3 tbsp packed light brown sugar Can substitute with dark brown sugar for a richer sweetness.
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika Use regular paprika for a milder flavor.
  • 1 tbsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper Can replace with chili powder for less heat.
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
For Saucing
  • 1 1/2 cups your favorite barbecue sauce, divided Reserve half for finishing.
  • white barbecue sauce or extra warmed sauce, for "bone" dipping effect (optional) For serving.
  • black sesame seeds, for garnish (optional) For decoration, to resemble dirt.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F.
  2. Use a paper towel to grip and peel the thin membrane from the back of each rack of ribs.
  3. In a small bowl, stir together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
  4. Rub the mixture all over both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat.
Slow Roasting
  1. Wrap each rack tightly in a double layer of aluminum foil, sealing the edges.
  2. Place the wrapped ribs on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 2 hours to 2 hours 15 minutes until the meat is very tender.
Saucing and Broiling
  1. Carefully unwrap the ribs and transfer them to a foil-lined baking sheet, bone-side down.
  2. Brush with 1 cup of barbecue sauce.
  3. Set the oven to broil on high and broil for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely until the sauce bubbles and lightly chars.
Resting and Serving
  1. Let the ribs rest for 5 to 10 minutes before slicing between the bones into individual pieces.
  2. Arrange the rib pieces on a platter in a loose bone-pile pattern and brush with the remaining barbecue sauce.
  3. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired and serve warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers. Reheat in a covered skillet with a splash of water or barbecue sauce, or in the microwave.