How to Cook BBQ Ribs Fast on the Grill

Learn how to grill ribs quickly and efficiently over charcoal or a gas grill on a weeknight with these time-saving tips. I'll share an easy recipe that caters to those with hectic schedules, but still yearn for a mouthwatering BBQ meal for those hungry bellies. Say goodbye to long hours over the grill, and hello to delicious, fast-cooked ribs that will satisfy your cravings in no time. Granted, it won't be as great as the "low and slow", but it will be enough to satiate any appetite. Elevate your weeknight dinners with this hassle-free approach to barbecue deliciousness.

As a Kansas Citian, I have plenty of options for some amazing barbeque restaurants and dives to choose from. However, I've learned a few secrets or two from some of the best out here in the midwest to make my own delicious barbeque.

I did want to start with stomping out three myths about barbeque that were shared with me by some amazing competition barbecue teams.

Myths Busted for Grilling BBQ Ribs

False: Good barbeque takes a long time. Some will say that good barbeque takes HOURS to be smoked. I'm here to tell you that you can grill up some ribs on a weeknight in under an hour. I'm showing you how in the recipe below.

False: You can use any 'ol pack of ribs you find at your grocer. While no one is stopping you, I would highly suggest finding hand trimmed ribs. My favorite are baby back ribs. Baby back ribs are my favorite because of their irresistible combination of tender pork and flavor.

False: Propane is the way to go if you want barbeque quick. This can't be further from the truth. It only takes 15 minutes to get the charcoal going - and if you invest in that time, the flavors of your barbeque will surely stand out.

Tips on Grilling Barbeque Ribs Fast

While the best way to grill ribs is low and slow, sometimes, you just want delicious meals on a busy weeknight without the time needed. Here are a few different methods you can take to shorten the cooking time:

• Make sure you use a paper towel and dry the ribs before cooking.

• Boil the ribs first in water. You can parboil the ribs and cook it in boiling water for about 5 minutes prior to putting it on the grill. While it won't be as tender, it will be just as delicious.
• Remove the membrane (also known as the silver skin). While I generally don't mind eating the membrane, if you pull off the membrane of the ribs, they will generally allow the ribs to cook faster.
• Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker. Yes, I know this pressure cooker is all the rage now, but you can definitely use one to slow down the cooking time. However, the ribs will be softer and not as smokey as you would have it if you did it in full a charcoal grill. You cook the ribs at high pressure for approximately 20-25 minutes on top of a trivet that has around 1 cup of water. The exact cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs, as well as the specific pressure cooker you are using. However, I find that it has a mineral taste to it due to the bone being inside the pressure cooker, which I generally do not like. You can finish it off on a grill to get that smokey flavor.
• You can also pre-cook ribs using the microwave. Remove the membrane from the rack of ribs, add seasoning, then cut between each bone to separate each individual rib. Put the cut side down in two layers in a microwave-safe casserole dish. Add water, microwave on high for 7 minutes, turn, and do it for another 7 minutes. Move it to the grill for another 5 minutes to finish off.

Favorite Tools for Grilling

These are our favorite products for grilling! This seasoning is ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. If you are look for a dry rub, this seasoning is the freaking best!

How to Grill Ribs Fast

Step 1 // Purchase and Prep Your Rubs

Pick some ribs that have a lot of meat on them. For a quick weeknight meal, I just get the cryovac BBQ ribs because they are easy to find without having to go to the butcher. I look for the ones that have a lot of meat on them. I try to avoid the ones that look like they've been just puffed up with water.

Prep the ribs by using a paper towel and drying it off as the moisture will cause it to cook slower than having a dry piece of meat.

Step 2 // Charcoal Prep

Get the charcoal going! Give it about 15 minutes to burn and be ready for these delicious ribs.

You can also use a gas grill if you want, but it won't get you that charcoal taste. Gas grills can certain save a ton of time, so make sure you let it heat it up for long enough.

Step 3 // Dry Rub vs. Sauce

Cut the off the flaps of meat on the front and back slab of the ribs (one on the meat side, one on the bone side). Wash the ribs and pat dry. Rub a very thin layer of olive oil on both sides of the ribs. Cut in half.

Next, decide whether you are planning on using a dry rub or a sauce.

If you plan on using a rub, use this rub. Or if you are the from scratch kind, to create your own rub, combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic salt, chilli powder, crushed red pepper and thyme. Set aside.

If you are using a sauce, I would recommend rubbing just sea salt and freshly ground black peppercorns on the ribs. Here are some of my favorite barbeque sauces, with a few biases from Kansas City:

• Arthur Bryan's BBQ Sauce
• Joe's KC BBQ Sauce (the infamous BBQ joint in a gas station)
• Jack Stack's BBQ Sauce

Next, massage on a layer of the rub or salt/pepper on the bottom and top of the ribs.

Step 4 // Check the Charcoal

Go check on the grill. Once the top charcoal layer has started to turn gray with ash, you'll know that the grill is ready.

Step 5 // Indirect Heat

Place the ribs over indirect heat and close the lid.

Cook for 20 minutes.

You can also use an internal heat thermometer to check out how well it's cooked. This is the one we use at home, and it's been amazing even for cooking in the oven.

If you really want to, brush with your favorite barbeque sauce. If you are using the Hardcore Carnivore seasoning, I would recommend not putting on BBQ sauce at all.

Cover and continue cooking for an additional 20 minutes.

Step 6 // Let Sit

Take it off the grill and let it sit for 5 minutes.

Then, get your grub on!

Pairing BBQ ribs with the perfect side dishes can elevate your weeknight dinner. For a mouthwatering combination, consider serving your delicious ribs with a medley of sides, like coleslaw which offers a refreshing crunch and a hint of creaminess that complements the smoky flavors of the ribs. Baked beans, with their rich, sweet, and savory profile, provide a delightful contrast and enhance the overall BBQ experience. If you're aiming for a touch of Southern comfort, cornbread is a must, as its buttery, crumbly texture and slight sweetness are the perfect accompaniment. And don't forget to add some roasted or grilled corn on the cob for a touch of freshness and that classic BBQ essence. Whether you opt for these suggestions or explore other options, pairing your BBQ ribs with the right sides can turn your meal into a delectable feast.

Smoking Ribs

If you've ever wondered what baby back ribs appear like after two hours in the smoker, here's two hours of smoking and 30 minutes in the oven. Achieving these mouthwatering results requires patience, whether through slow grilling or using a smoker. Smoking ribs is an art that demands time, but the payoff in flavor is undeniably worth it. However, the recipe I've shared above is tailored for those with limited time on their hands, delivering a taste of smoky goodness without the lengthy investment.

I hope these tips help you!

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