Smoky Fourth of July ribs glazed with tangy BBQ sauce are a high protein, carnivore-approved family celebration staple. These tender ribs are the ultimate patriotic cookout centerpiece.
Preheat your smoker or oven to 275°F for gentle, even cooking. Prepare your rib rack by removing the thin membrane from the bone side for optimum tenderness.
Mix brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper thoroughly to create your dry rub.
Generously coat the ribs on both sides with the dry rub, pressing the seasoning into the meat for deeper flavor penetration.
Place the ribs bone-side down on the smoker grate or on a baking rack in a roasting pan. Cover tightly with foil if baking. Smoke or bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, checking at the 2-hour mark for tenderness.
Remove the foil (if using) and brush BBQ sauce evenly over the ribs. Increase heat to 350°F or finish over direct grill heat. Cook uncovered for 30–40 minutes, brushing with additional sauce every 10 minutes for a sticky glaze.
Let the ribs rest under tented foil for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones and serving.