How Long to Cook Ribs on a Propane Grill

Ribs are a BBQ favorite, but achieving that perfect balance of tenderness and smoky flavor on a propane grill can be challenging. Unlike charcoal or pellet grills, propane grills require careful heat management to ensure slow, even cooking. The key to great ribs is cooking them low and slow, allowing the connective tissues to break down while keeping the meat juicy. If done right, you can expect to spend anywhere between 2.5 to 3.5 hours grilling ribs on a propane grill. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process—from preparation to serving—to ensure you get mouthwatering, fall-off-the-bone ribs every time.

Preparing the Ribs

Before firing up the grill, it’s important to prepare your ribs properly. The type of ribs you choose and the way you season them can significantly impact the final outcome.

Choosing the Right Ribs

There are two main types of pork ribs:

1. Baby Back Ribs – These ribs are smaller, leaner, and cook faster, usually in about 2.5 hours. They have a slightly curved shape and are known for their tenderness.
2. Spare Ribs – Larger and meatier, these ribs take longer to cook—about 3 to 3.5 hours. They have more connective tissue, which makes them incredibly flavorful when cooked properly.

Removing the Membrane

On the underside of the ribs (bone side), you’ll find a thin membrane called the silverskin. This should be removed to allow seasonings to penetrate better and to create a more tender bite. To remove it:

• Slide a butter knife under the membrane on one end of the rack.
• Use a paper towel to grip and pull the membrane off in one piece.

Seasoning the Ribs

You can choose between a dry rub, marinade, or both. A dry rub is a great way to develop a flavorful crust, while marinades can help tenderize the meat. A simple yet effective dry rub includes:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tbsp salt
• 1 tbsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Apply the rub generously and let the ribs sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge for deeper flavor).

Setting Up the Propane Grill

To mimic the effects of a smoker, you’ll need to set up your propane grill for indirect grilling. Here’s how:

1. Preheat the Grill – Turn on one side of the burners to 225–250°F and leave the other side off. This will create a two-zone cooking environment.
2. Use a Drip Pan – Place a pan filled with water or apple juice under the unlit side. This helps maintain moisture and regulate temperature.
3. Add Smoke Flavor (Optional) – If you want a smoky taste, use a smoker box with wood chips (hickory, apple, or cherry work great). Place it over the lit burner.

Cooking the Ribs

Step 1: Initial Cooking Phase (1.5 to 2 Hours)

• Place the ribs on the unlit side of the grill (indirect heat) with the bone side down.
• Close the lid and maintain a steady 225–250°F temperature.
• Avoid opening the lid too often, as this will cause temperature fluctuations.

Step 2: Wrapping the Ribs (30 to 45 Minutes)

• After about 1.5 to 2 hours, the ribs should have a deep reddish-brown color. This is when you wrap them.
• Place the ribs in aluminum foil and add butter, honey, or apple juice before sealing the foil. This locks in moisture.
• Return the wrapped ribs to the grill (still on indirect heat) and cook for another 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 3: Final Glazing and Caramelization (30 Minutes)

• Remove the ribs from the foil and place them back on the grill.
• Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce.
• Let the sauce set by cooking for another 30 minutes, flipping occasionally to prevent burning.

Checking for Doneness

Ribs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 195–203°F. However, there are additional ways to check doneness:

• Bend Test – Pick up the ribs with tongs and let one end hang. If they bend and start to crack, they are ready.
• Toothpick Test – Insert a toothpick into the meat; if it slides in with little resistance, they are done.
• Bone Pull Test – The meat should slightly pull away from the bones when gently tugged.

Resting and Serving the Ribs

Once your ribs are perfectly cooked, let them rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. When cutting, slice between the bones for even portions.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes – Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or mac and cheese.
• Extra Sauce – Offer additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.
• Garnish – Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh finish.

Conclusion

Cooking ribs on a propane grill takes time and patience, but the results are well worth the effort. By following these steps—preparing the ribs properly, setting up for indirect heat, cooking low and slow, wrapping for moisture, and finishing with a flavorful glaze—you can achieve BBQ-quality ribs right in your backyard. Experiment with different rubs, sauces, and wood chips to create your signature flavor. Happy grilling.