10/08/2025
Pan-Fried BBQ Pork Ribs
This recipe is for pan-fried pork ribs that are tender on the inside with a delicious, caramelized BBQ sauce coating. This method is great when you don't want to fire up the grill but still want that classic BBQ flavor.
Ingredients
* For the Ribs:
* 1 rack (about 2-3 lbs) pork ribs, either baby back or St. Louis style
* 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* 1/2 cup water or chicken broth
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/2 onion, finely chopped (optional, for flavor)
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* For the BBQ Sauce:
* 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (or see simple homemade recipe below)
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon brown sugar (adjust to your preference)
* 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Simple Homemade BBQ Sauce (if you don't have a store-bought one)
* 1 cup ketchup
* 1/4 cup brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
* Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions
* Prepare the Ribs:
* Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This helps with browning.
* Cut the rack of ribs into individual or 2-3 rib sections. This makes them easier to handle in the pan.
* Generously season the ribs on all sides with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
* Sear the Ribs:
* Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pan or skillet (a cast-iron skillet works great) over medium-high heat.
* Place the seasoned ribs in the hot pan in a single layer. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.
* Sear the ribs for 3-5 minutes on each side until they are nicely browned. The browning adds a lot of flavor.
* Braise the Ribs:
* After searing all the ribs, return them all to the pan.
* Add the minced garlic and chopped onion (if using) and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
* Carefully pour in the 1/2 cup of water or chicken broth.
* Bring the liquid to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let the ribs braise.
* Cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Check occasionally to make sure the liquid hasn't all evaporated; if it has, add a splash more water.
* Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
* While the ribs are braising, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and everything is well mixed.
* Finish with the Sauce:
* Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
* Discard any remaining liquid and onion/garlic from the pan.
* Return the pan to medium heat. Pour in your prepared BBQ sauce.
* Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
* Return the cooked ribs to the pan and toss them in the simmering sauce, coating them completely.
* Continue to cook for 5-10 minutes, turning the ribs to make sure they are evenly coated and the sauce caramelizes slightly. The sauce should become sticky and delicious.
* Serve:
* Serve the pan-fried BBQ ribs immediately with your favorite side dishes like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or mac and cheese.
Enjoy your delicious and tender pan-fried BBQ pork ribs!