Ribs are my all-time favorite dish to smoke, and I’ve shared numerous recipes like my Traeger 2-2-1 ribs and fall-off-the-bone ribs. Now, I’m excited to introduce a lazy twist on the classic recipe with my No Wrap Ribs. This method is perfect for the backyard pitmaster who wants to enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the pool or lake while making mouthwatering ribs with minimal effort. Using my Traeger Timberline XL, I take advantage of the large hopper and precise temperature control to ensure perfect ribs every time. If you love summer grilling and crave that delicious smoky flavor, this no-fuss recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients for No wrap, No sauce Ribs
1 Slab Baby Back Ribs: Meaty ribs from the top of the rib cage.
2 tbsp Yellow Mustard: Helps rubs adhere without changing flavor.
2 tbsp Smoked Q Rock’s Anytime Seasoning: SPG blend for salt, pepper, and garlic flavors.
1 tbsp Smoked Q Smashville HOT Spice Blend: Adds heat and flavor on the underside.
1 tbsp Smoked Q Hey Boo! Honey Spice Blend: Sweet finish to the flavor profile.
Instructions for making No wrap, No Sauce Ribs
Experience the pure, smoky goodness of ribs with these simple instructions for making No Wrap, No Sauce Ribs. Achieve perfectly tender, flavorful ribs by slow-smoking them to perfection, letting the natural juices and spices shine through without the need for wrapping or saucing.
Bring smoker to temp
I cooked these ribs on my Traeger at 275ºF. This temperature is perfect for maintaining the desired texture while ensuring the ribs are cooked within a fairly reasonable timeframe.
Remove the membrane
To begin the prep of these baby back ribs, I used my finger to get underneath the membrane on the underside of the rib. Then, using a paper towel, I removed this thin layer, allowing for the maximum flavor to adhere from the rub and the smoke.
Bottom side binder and seasoning
To ensure the rub stays on the ribs, I coated them with yellow mustard before layering on the seasoning. Starting with my trusted Smoked Q Rock’s Anytime Seasoning blend on the underside, I then added Smoked Q Rock’s Smashville HOT spice blend for an extra kick.
Top side binder and seasoning
I then applied a generous layer of yellow mustard to the top side, followed by Smoked Q Rock’s Anytime Seasoning blend. Then, I added a generous layer of Smoked Q Rock’s Hey Boo! Honey spice blend to finish off the prep.
Smoke for 5 & ½ hours
This one is very simple, let the ribs roll on the Traeger at 275º until the meat hits 198º. This often takes between 5 to 6 hours.
Let rest and separate
Once they have hit temp, I removed them from my Traeger, let them rest for about 10 minutes before separating.
Variations and Substitutions
Alternate Rubs for Smoking Ribs
- Heath Riles Rubs:
- Anytime Substitute: Heath Riles Everyday Rub
- Hey Boo! Honey: Heath Riles Honey Rub
- Smashville HOT: Heath Riles Hot BBQ Rub
Substitution or Variation:
- St. Louis Style or Spareribs: These ribs can dry out if smoked for a long time without wrapping. Consider:
- Lowering the cooking temperature.
- Reducing the cooking time.
- Pulling them at an internal temperature of 190-195ºF.
Tips and Tricks for No Wrap, No Sauce Ribs
- Select Ribs with Marbling: Look for ribs with visible white lines of marbling in the red meat for better flavor and tenderness.
- Use Worcestershire Sauce as Binder: It adds flavor and tenderizes the meat when left on for 30 minutes to an hour before smoking.
- Offer Warm Barbecue Sauce: For guests who like sauce, warm some in a heat-resistant container on the smoker during the last 30 minutes. My favorite is Smoked Q Irish Whiskey BBQ Sauce.
