Firecracker BBQ Ribs

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Bold, Nostalgic Flavor for Your Backyard BBQ

These Firecracker BBQ Ribs are inspired by summer fireworks and backyard memories. Think of the 4th of July scene from The Sandlot—that's the kind of explosive flavor you’re getting here. Sweet, spicy, sticky, and made to impress, these ribs are perfect for a laid-back weekend cookout on your Masterbuilt Gravity Series® 800.

Pro Tips for BBQ Rib Perfection

  • Use a drip pan under the ribs for easier cleanup and more consistent moisture.

  • Want extra bark? Skip wrapping the ribs mid-cook and go unwrapped the full 6 hours.

  • Save extra Firecracker Sauce for wings or burgers—it’s that good.

Why the Gravity Series 800?

The Gravity Series 800 Digital Charcoal Griddle + Grill + Smoker combines smart, modern temperature control with the rich flavor of traditional charcoal cooking. It enables three key steps in your rib cook—slow smoking, sticky glazing, and final sear—to execute seamlessly and consistently. If you’re after tender, flavorful ribs with minimal fuss, this grill is a game-changer.

Firecracker BBQ Ribs

Serves: 4 people
Cook Time: 6+ hours
Skill:
Beginner
Method:
Smoked
Food:
Pork
Firecracker BBQ Ribs

Ingredients

  • Firecracker Sauce

  • Ribs

Instructions

  1. 01

    Score the membrane on the back of the ribs to help the rub and smoke penetrate.

  2. 02

    Season generously with your favorite BBQ rub combo.

  3. 03

    Let ribs sit for 30–60 minutes to absorb the rub.

  4. 04

    Preheat your Masterbuilt Gravity 800 to 250°F. Use your favorite wood chunks—hickory or cherry work great for pork.

  5. 05

    Place ribs on the smoker and cook low and slow until tender and the bones start to pull back (about 5–5.5 hours).

  6. 06

    In a saucepan, combine all Firecracker Sauce ingredients.

  7. 07

    Heat over medium-low, stirring frequently until the sauce thickens slightly (about 10 minutes).

  8. 08

    In the final 15 minutes of your cook, brush the ribs with the Firecracker BBQ sauce.

  9. 09

    Let the glaze caramelize slightly, flipping once to avoid burning.

  10. 10

    Remove from the smoker once the internal temp hits 195–203°F and ribs are probe tender.

  11. 11

    Let ribs rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing.

  12. 12

    Serve with extra sauce on the side—and maybe a firework or two.

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