If you’re looking for a recipe that will impress at family dinners, game nights, or summer cookouts, these Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are the answer. They combine tender, juicy pork ribs with a sticky glaze that’s the perfect balance of sweet, savory, and garlicky goodness. Every bite is packed with flavor, and the caramelized coating makes them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love These Ribs
Perfect texture: Slow-cooked until tender, then finished with a sticky glaze. Flavor-packed glaze: Honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of spice create the ultimate sticky sauce. Crowd-pleaser: These ribs disappear fast – make extra if you have guests! Versatile: Works great for oven-baked ribs, grill, or even slow cooker methods.
Ingredients
For the Ribs:
2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sticky Honey Garlic Sauce:
½ cup honey
¼ cup soy sauce (low sodium if preferred)
3 tablespoons ketchup
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or apple cider vinegar)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ribs
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for maximum tenderness. Mix salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Rub this seasoning evenly over the ribs.
Wrap ribs in foil and place on a baking sheet.
Bake for 2.5–3 hours, or until ribs are tender and nearly falling off the bone.
2. Make the Sauce
In a saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, ketchup, garlic, vinegar, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Glaze and Finish
Remove ribs from the oven and carefully unwrap.
Brush generously with the honey garlic sauce.
Increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) or preheat grill.
Cook ribs uncovered for 10–15 minutes, basting with more sauce until sticky and caramelized.
Tips for Success
For extra tenderness, cook ribs in a slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours, then glaze and broil for a sticky finish.
Double the sauce recipe if you like extra dipping sauce on the side.
Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a restaurant-style presentation.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs with:
Creamy coleslaw Cornbread or dinner rolls Garlic mashed potatoes Grilled vegetables
They’re the perfect mix of comfort food and party food – whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.