Cook Spare Ribs on a Gas Grill the Right Way for Flavor

Spare ribs are a classic backyard favorite.

They're meaty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a crowd.

But if you’re using a gas grill, cooking ribs the right way can make all the difference between juicy perfection and dry disappointment.

Today, we’re breaking down the best way to cook spare ribs on a gas grill.

From choosing the right ribs to finishing with your favorite BBQ sauce, you’ll learn everything you need for tender, smoky, and flavorful ribs—without needing a smoker.

Why Spare Ribs + Gas Grills Need a Special Plan

Spare ribs are bigger and fattier than baby back ribs. 

They take longer to cook and love slow, steady heat. 

Gas grills are great for this, but you’ll need to set things up right. 

With a few smart tricks, you’ll turn your gas grill into a rib-making machine.

👉 Quick promise: This guide will teach you the right method to get flavor, texture, and ease—all from your gas grill.

Learn More: How to Clean Gas Grill Burners: Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the Right Spare Ribs

Not all ribs are the same. 

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Spare ribs: Larger, more fat, and deeper flavor. Great for slow cooking.

• Baby back ribs: Smaller, leaner, cook faster.

• St. Louis-style: Trimmed spare ribs with a more even shape for cooking.

🛒 What to Look for:

• Good marbling: You want little streaks of fat in the meat.

• Even size: So everything cooks evenly.

• Bone-to-meat ratio: Meatier is better for grilling.

Prepping the Ribs Like a Pro

🧼 Remove the Membrane

On the back of the ribs, there’s a thin silver skin. 

Use a butter knife to loosen it, then peel it off with a paper towel. 

This helps seasonings soak in better and makes ribs easier to chew.

✂️ Trim Extra Fat

Too much fat can cause flare-ups on the grill. 

Trim it but don’t go overboard—fat adds flavor.

📦 Pat Dry

Before adding seasoning, pat the ribs dry with paper towels. 

This helps the rub stick better.

Discover More: The Best Guide to Grill Burner Cleaning: Step-by-Step Tips

The Best Rib Rubs and Marinades

You don’t need fancy ingredients. 

Here’s a simple rub:

Easy Dry Rub Recipe:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp paprika

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• Pinch of cayenne (optional)

Rub the ribs all over, wrap them in foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1–2 hours (or overnight for deeper flavor).

🧪 Optional Marinade: A mix of apple juice, soy sauce, garlic, and a splash of vinegar can add tangy depth if you have time.

Setting Up Your Gas Grill for Success

Here’s where many people go wrong. 

Ribs need indirect heat—you’re baking them, not searing.

🔥 Indirect vs. Direct Heat

• Direct heat: Right over the flame. Good for burgers.

• Indirect heat: Off to the side. Perfect for ribs.

🔧 How to Set a 2-Zone Fire:

• Turn on only one side of your grill.

• Place a drip pan with water on the unlit side (adds moisture and catches drips).

• Heat to 250–275°F. Use your built-in thermometer or a digital one.

The Best Way to Cook Spare Ribs on a Gas Grill

Here’s your rib roadmap:

• Preheat the grill and set up your 2 zones.

• Add a water pan to the unlit side.

• Place ribs bone side down on the indirect heat zone.

• Close the lid and don’t peek!

• Maintain 250–275°F for 2 hours.

During this time, keep your grill steady. 

If things get messy, you can use a bristle-free brush like Easy Function’s coiled grill brush with scraper to tidy up without risking wire bristles. 

It’s safe, long-lasting, and easy to grip—perfect for routine mid-cook clean-ups if needed.

The 2-2-1 or 3-2-1 Method: Should You Wrap?

Ever heard of the “Texas Crutch”? 

Wrapping ribs in foil helps them stay juicy.

🕒 What’s the 3-2-1 Method?

• 3 hours unwrapped

• 2 hours wrapped in foil with a splash of juice or butter

• 1 hour unwrapped to firm up and glaze with sauce

🕒 What’s the 2-2-1 Method?

With spare ribs on a gas grill, try the 2-2-1 method instead:

• 2 hours unwrapped

• 2 hours wrapped

• 1 hour final cook

Pros: Tender ribs, added moisture.

Cons: Foil-wrapping can soften the bark (outer crust). Try both and see what you prefer!

Adding Smoke Flavor on a Gas Grill

You don’t need a smoker for smoky ribs.

🌳 Add Wood Chips:

• Use apple, hickory, or cherry for ribs.

• Soak chips for 30 minutes (optional, prevents burning fast).

• Wrap in foil and poke holes or use a smoker box.

• Place over the lit burner.

Even on a gas grill, this adds a touch of that smoky BBQ goodness.

Finishing with Sauce (or Not)

Sauce is personal. 

Some love sticky ribs, some prefer dry-rubbed.

🍯 When to Sauce:

• In the last 15–30 minutes.

• Apply in layers to build a glaze.

• Keep heat low to prevent burning.

Don’t be shy to try store-bought favorites or whip up your own. 

Just keep sugar content in mind—it burns fast!

How to Tell When Your Ribs Are Done

Skip the timer—use your senses.

✅ Done When:

• Bend test: Pick up ribs with tongs. They should bend and crack slightly.

• Toothpick test: Slides in between bones with little resistance.

• Internal temp: Aim for 190–203°F.

Resting and Serving Your Ribs

Letting ribs rest keeps the juices where they belong.

• Rest for 10–15 minutes under foil.

• Use a sharp knife and slice between bones.

• Serve with sides like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or baked beans.

🧼 After your feast, don’t forget to clean your grill. 

The Easy Function wood grill scraper molds to your grate over time, making cleanup faster and safer with each use—and it’s eco-friendly, too.

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Conclusion

Cooking spare ribs on a gas grill is not only doable—it can be incredible. 

With the right ribs, a smart setup, and a bit of patience, you’ll master the best way to cook spare ribs on a gas grill in no time.

Remember:

• Use indirect heat

• Try the 2-2-1 method

• Add smoke for flavor

• Wrap if you like them juicy

• Sauce carefully

• Rest before serving

And don’t forget to keep your grill tools in good shape.

Whether it’s a bristle-free brush, a wood scraper, or the temperature magnet, Easy Function’s got smart tools to help you clean, cook, and grill with confidence.

👉 Want to check out our grill gear? 

Click on the image below to see all Easy Function products – because grilling should be easy and fun.

Now go fire up that gas grill and show those spare ribs who’s boss!