How To Cook Ribs On A Pellet Grill

Ribs are one of the most popular cuts of meat to grill, and for good reason. Done right, they are tender, juicy and packed full of flavor. If you’re looking to up your BBQ game, mastering the art of cooking ribs on a pellet grill is a must. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about cooking ribs on a pellet grill, from choosing the right cuts to seasoning and cooking times.

Choosing The Right Cut Of Ribs

When it comes to cooking ribs on a pellet grill, there are several different cuts to choose from. Baby back ribs are a popular choice, as they are lean and tender, making them easy to cook and eat. St. Louis-style ribs are another option, and these tend to be meatier and more flavorful than baby backs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even try cooking beef ribs, which require a longer cooking time but are well worth the effort.

Preparing Your Ribs

Before you begin cooking your ribs, it’s important to prepare them properly to ensure they turn out perfectly. Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs, as this can make them tough and chewy. This can be done easily by running a butter knife along the bone, then using a paper towel to grip the membrane and peel it away.

Once your ribs are prepared, it’s time to season them. There are countless seasoning blends and rubs available, but a simple mixture of salt, pepper and garlic powder will work just fine. Apply the seasoning generously to both sides of the ribs, then let them rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Preparing Your Pellet Grill

Once your ribs are prepared, it’s time to fire up your pellet grill. Preheat the grill to 225°F, then add your favorite wood pellets. Hickory, mesquite and applewood are all great choices for ribs, but feel free to experiment with different woods to find your favorite flavor.

Cooking Your Ribs On The Pellet Grill

When cooking ribs on a pellet grill, the key is to cook them low and slow. This means maintaining a consistent temperature of around 225°F for several hours. A good rule of thumb is to cook your ribs for 2-3 hours for baby backs and 3-4 hours for St. Louis-style ribs. For beef ribs, you may need to cook them for up to 6 hours.

To ensure your ribs are cooking evenly, it’s a good idea to rotate them every hour or so. You can also spray them with apple juice or a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water to keep them moist.

Checking The Temperature

To determine when your ribs are done, you’ll need to check their internal temperature. Use a meat thermometer to take the temperature of the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch the bone. For baby back ribs, the temperature should be around 165°F, while St. Louis-style ribs should reach 175°F. Beef ribs will be done at around 195°F.

Finishing Your Ribs

Once your ribs have reached the correct internal temperature, it’s time to finish them off. Remove them from the grill and wrap them in foil, then let them rest for 30 minutes. This will allow the meat to reabsorb its juices, making it even more tender and flavorful.

After the ribs have rested, remove them from the foil and brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce. Return them to the grill for another 15-20 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize and create a delicious crust on the ribs.

Conclusion

Cooking ribs on a pellet grill may take some time and effort, but the results are well worth it. By choosing the right cut of ribs, preparing them properly and cooking them low and slow on your pellet grill, you can create mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone ribs that are sure to impress your friends and family. So fire up your pellet grill and get ready to take your BBQ game to the next level!

FAQs – How To Cook Ribs On A Pellet Grill

What type of ribs are best to cook on a pellet grill?

St. Louis-style spare ribs or baby back ribs are the most popular choices for pellet grill cooking. Both types of ribs are well-marbled, which keeps them moist during the cooking process, and they fall off the bone when cooked properly.

What temperature should I cook my ribs at?

Set your pellet grill’s temperature to 225°F if you want to cook your ribs low and slow. Depending on your recipe and personal preference, you may also want to add a small amount of wood pellets that will impart a smoky flavor. Cook your ribs for approximately five to six hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 180°F to 190°F.

How often should I check on my ribs while they’re cooking?

It’s best to avoid frequently opening the lid of your pellet grill, which can cause heat loss and increase cooking time. However, if you want to check the progress of your ribs, do so every hour to ensure they are cooking evenly and to spritz them with apple juice, apple cider vinegar, or your choice of liquid to keep them moist. Once you determine your cooking time, remember to set a timer and refrain from opening the lid to ensure your ribs are cooked to perfection.

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