If you care about real ingredients and bold, smoky flavor, Rib Rack Barbecue Sauce is a must-have. It’s one of those rare bottled sauces that actually tastes better than homemade without any of the junk.
Made in the USA, this clean-label sauce is perfect for brushing on ribs, glazing grilled chicken, or drizzling over pulled pork. It’s gluten-free, non-GMO, and contains no high-fructose corn syrup.
In this post, you’ll learn how to make your own version of Rib Rack’s barbecue sauce at home. With just a few pantry staples and a little simmer time, you’ll get that same rich, tangy flavor without the preservatives.
What Is Rib Rack BBQ Sauce?
Rib Rack BBQ Sauce is a popular all-natural barbecue sauce known for its clean ingredients and bold, authentic flavor. Unlike many commercial sauces filled with high fructose corn syrup and artificial additives, Rib Rack uses real cane sugar, natural spices, and quality vinegar. The result is a balanced sauce with smoky depth and a hint of sweetness.
What truly sets Rib Rack apart is its focus on health-conscious cooking without compromising on taste. This makes it a favorite among those who want a more natural, wholesome option for their barbecue.
Additionally, Rib Rack offers several varieties to suit different flavor preferences. From the classic Original to the rich Honey Bourbon and the bold Sweet Heat, there’s something for everyone. Whether you prefer mild and sweet or smoky and spicy, Rib Rack BBQ Sauce is a must-have.
How to Make Rib Rack BBQ Sauce at Home
Making a homemade version of Rib Rack BBQ Sauce is simpler than you might think, and it lets you customize the flavor exactly to your liking. This sauce balances sweetness, tang, and smokiness, using wholesome ingredients.
Here’s a straightforward way to recreate that rich, natural Rib Rack taste in your own kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are for making tender, flavorful grilled ribs finished with Rib Rack BBQ Sauce:
- Pork ribs (baby back or St. Louis style)
2 pounds of rib is needed for this recipe. Choose fresh, meaty ribs with minimal silver skin for the best texture and flavor.
- Rib Rack Original Barbecue Sauce
Add ½ cup (plus more for serving) of Rib Rack Original BBQ Sauce. It is a clean-label sauce that adds a rich, smoky-sweet glaze without artificial ingredients.
- Salt
1 teaspoon of salt is essential for bringing out the natural flavor of the pork.
- Black pepper
We need ½ teaspoon of black pepper to add a touch of savory spice.
- Brown sugar
1 tablespoon (optional) of brown sugar gives a sweet crust when grilling, especially if you love that caramelized bark.
- Smoked paprika
Take 1 teaspoon (optional) of smoked paprika. it adds a deep, smoky note that complements the sauce.
- Garlic powder
½ teaspoon (optional) of garlic powder for extra savory depth, especially if you’re skipping a full rub.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ribs
Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (if not already done). This helps the seasoning and sauce absorb better.
Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel, then season both sides evenly with salt and pepper. If you’re using the optional brown sugar, paprika, or garlic powder, rub those in now.
Step 2: Preheat the Grill
Set your grill for indirect heat at around 300°F (150°C). For charcoal grills, bank the coals to one side; for gas grills, light one side and leave the other off. Place a drip tray under the ribs if needed.
Step 3: Cook Low and Slow
Place the seasoned ribs bone-side down on the cooler side of the grill. Cover and cook for 45–60 minutes, turning once halfway through.
You’re looking for the meat to be tender and slightly pulling away from the bones.
Step 4: Glaze with Rib Rack Sauce.
Brush the ribs generously with Rib Rack Original BBQ Sauce. Move them over to direct heat and grill each side for 2–3 minutes to caramelize the sauce. Watch closely; sugars can burn quickly.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute.
Slice between the bones and serve with extra warmed Rib Rack sauce on the side.
Pro Tips
- Shake the bottle before using; no artificial stabilizers, so ingredients may settle.
- Add extra heat? Stir a few dashes of hot sauce into the base bottle.
- Make it shine: Warm the sauce slightly before glazing for better adhesion and gloss.
- Storage note: Keep it in the fridge after opening; it’s best to print on the bottle. It’s still good a bit after that, but shakes have become your friend.
How to Use Rib Rack Barbecue Sauce?
This sauce is incredibly versatile. Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or slow-cooking, Rib Rack brings that classic BBQ finish. Try it in:
- Smoked baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs
- BBQ pulled pork or chicken sandwiches
- Brushed-on grilled veggie skewers or cauliflower steaks.
- Topping for baked BBQ meatballs
- Stirred into baked beans or BBQ mac and cheese
- Marinade for grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms
Whether you’re slathering it on or serving it on the side, Rib Rack-style sauce makes every dish feel like summer.
Rib Rack Barbecue Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp Tomato Paste
- 1 Tbsp Molasses
- 1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1/2 Tsp Garlic Powder
- 1/2 Tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 Tsp Onion Powder
- 1/4 Tsp Black Pepper
- 1/2 Tsp Sea Salt
- 1/2 Tsp Natural Smoke Flavor
- 1/3 Cup Water or Broth
Instructions
- Combine tomato paste, molasses, and vinegar in a saucepan over low heat.
- Whisk in garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, pepper, and salt.
- Add water or broth and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in smoke flavor and adjust seasoning to taste. Cool and store in an airtight jar for up to 1 week.
Nutrition
Final Thoughts
When you want bold barbecue flavor without the artificial extras, Rib Rack Barbecue Sauce is a standout. It is tangy, rich, and sweet in all the right ways. Best of all, it is made with clean, real ingredients you can feel good about.
You can brush it on ribs or marinated chicken thighs or use it as a dip for fries. No matter how you serve it, it brings that signature BBQ flavor to the table. It is not just a sauce; it is essential for your new backyard grilling.
FAQ’s
What Makes Rib Rack Barbecue Sauce Different?
It’s made with natural ingredients: no high fructose corn syrup, no preservatives, just a bold, clean flavor.
Is Rib Rack Bbq Sauce Gluten-free or Keto-friendly?
Most varieties are gluten-free and lower in sugar, but always check the label for carb count if following keto.
How Do You Use Rib Rack Sauce for Grilling and Roasting?
Use it as a finishing glaze for ribs, a marinade for meat or tofu, or mix it into baked beans and pulled pork.
