Root Beer BBQ Ribs
May 11, 2026
Root beer isn’t just a delicious beverage, it’s also a fantastic marinade for ribs! The carbonation tenderizes the meat, while the sugar adds a deep, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with grilled foods. This easy rib recipe will soon become a highly-requested family favorite…but don’t worry, your secret ingredient is safe with us.
SERVINGS
6-10
PREP TIME
30 min
COOK TIME
2 hr 30 min
Ingredients
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1rack L&B Premium Duroc All-Natural Pork Baby Back Ribs
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2tablespoons L&B Smoky Pork Seasoning
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2(7.4 oz.) cans 1919 Root Beer
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1⅔ cups ketchup
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3garlic cloves, minced
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2teaspoons L&B Ancho Powder
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2teaspoons L&B Onion Powder
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1teaspoon L&B Ground Chipotle Powder
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½teaspoon kosher salt
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Thinly sliced chives, for garnish
Directions
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1
Heat oven to 325 F. Season the ribs on both sides with the L&B Smoky Pork Seasoning and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours, until tender. Remove from the oven and allow to cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
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2
While the ribs are cooking, make the barbecue sauce: In a saucepan, combine the root beer, ketchup, garlic, ancho powder, onion powder, chipotle powder and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced by ¾, about 20 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and allow to cool to room temperature, about 30 minutes.
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3
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Slice the rack of ribs into individual ribs. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of the barbecue sauce and the ribs and toss to coat.
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4
Grill the ribs on all sides until charred, about 3 minutes per side, brushing the ribs with more barbecue sauce as they cook. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chives. Serve with remaining barbecue sauce on the side.