How Long Should You Cook Ribs on a Gas Grill at 350°F?

AvatarByJacqueline Johnson Food Storage & Preservation

When it comes to grilling ribs, achieving that perfect balance of tender, juicy meat with a flavorful smoky crust is every barbecue enthusiast’s goal. Cooking ribs on a gas grill offers convenience and control, but it also raises a common question: how long should you cook ribs at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to get that ideal texture and taste? Understanding the timing and technique is key to transforming a simple rack of ribs into a mouthwatering centerpiece for your next cookout.

Grilling ribs at 350°F strikes a balance between cooking speed and flavor development, allowing the meat to cook evenly without drying out. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on factors like the type of ribs, their thickness, and whether you’re using direct or indirect heat. Mastering this process ensures that your ribs come off the grill tender enough to fall off the bone, yet still packed with smoky goodness.

In the following sections, we’ll explore the essentials of grilling ribs at this temperature, including timing guidelines, preparation tips, and techniques to enhance flavor and texture. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, knowing how long to cook ribs on a gas grill at 350 degrees will elevate your barbecue game and impress your guests every time.

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Ribs on a Gas Grill at 350°F

Cooking ribs on a gas grill at 350°F requires balancing temperature control and timing to achieve tender, flavorful results. At this moderate temperature, ribs generally take less time than slow-cooking methods but still need enough duration to break down connective tissues and render fat properly.

The key is to maintain consistent heat and use indirect grilling techniques to avoid burning or drying out the ribs. Direct exposure to flames at 350°F can cause uneven cooking and charring, so positioning the ribs away from the direct heat source is critical.

Typically, ribs cooked at 350°F on a gas grill will require approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to become tender. This timing can vary based on rib type (baby back or spare ribs), thickness, and whether the ribs are wrapped during cooking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

  • Preheat the Grill: Ensure the gas grill reaches a steady 350°F before placing the ribs on the grates.
  • Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the bone side, season with a dry rub or marinade, and let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.
  • Set Up for Indirect Cooking: Turn off one or more burners, leaving others on to maintain 350°F. Place ribs on the cooler side of the grill.
  • Cook with Lid Closed: Close the lid to maintain temperature and allow smoke to circulate evenly.
  • Monitor and Rotate: Check ribs every 30 minutes, rotating for even cooking and avoiding flare-ups.
  • Optional Wrapping: After about 1 hour, wrap ribs in foil with a splash of liquid (apple juice, beer, or marinade) to lock in moisture and tenderize.
  • Finish Unwrapped: For the last 15-30 minutes, remove foil to allow the surface to caramelize and develop a crust.

Approximate Cooking Times for Different Rib Types at 350°F

Rib Type Cooking Method Approximate Time Notes
Baby Back Ribs Indirect, unwrapped 1.5 – 2 hours Lean and tender; monitor to avoid drying out
Baby Back Ribs Indirect, wrapped after 1 hour 1.5 – 1.75 hours Moist and tender finish; wrapping helps retain juices
Spare Ribs Indirect, unwrapped 1.75 – 2 hours More connective tissue; needs slightly longer cooking
Spare Ribs Indirect, wrapped after 1 hour 1.75 – 2 hours Wrapping improves tenderness and juiciness

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Ribs at 350°F

  • Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature; ribs are done when they reach about 190-203°F internally for optimal tenderness.
  • Test doneness by gently bending the ribs; they should flex easily and meat should start pulling away from the bones.
  • Avoid opening the grill lid too frequently, as this lowers the temperature and extends cooking time.
  • Consider using a water pan inside the grill to maintain humidity and prevent ribs from drying out.
  • Apply barbecue sauce during the last 15 minutes of cooking to prevent burning sugars in the sauce.

Maintaining control of temperature and timing when grilling ribs at 350°F ensures that they emerge juicy, tender, and packed with flavor.

Optimal Cooking Time for Ribs on a Gas Grill at 350°F

Cooking ribs on a gas grill set to 350°F requires careful attention to both time and technique to achieve tender, flavorful results. This temperature is considered moderately high for ribs, and the cooking duration will depend on the type of ribs, their thickness, and whether you use direct or indirect grilling methods.

Here is a detailed guide on cooking times for various rib types at 350°F:

Rib Type Cooking Method Approximate Cooking Time Notes
Pork Baby Back Ribs Indirect Heat 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes Cook covered to retain moisture; wrap in foil after 45 minutes for tenderness
Pork Spare Ribs Indirect Heat 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes Use foil wrapping mid-cook to prevent drying out; consider finishing with sauce
Beef Ribs (Short Ribs) Indirect Heat 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours Longer cooking needed for tenderness; maintain consistent temperature

Key considerations for grilling ribs at 350°F:

  • Indirect heat is essential: Place ribs away from the direct flame to avoid burning and uneven cooking.
  • Maintain lid closed: Keeping the lid closed traps heat and smoke, promoting even cooking and tenderness.
  • Use a drip pan: Place a pan with water or apple juice beneath the ribs to maintain humidity and catch drippings.
  • Monitor internal temperature: Aim for an internal temperature of 190°F to 203°F for tender pork ribs.
  • Apply barbecue sauce late: Add sauce in the last 10-15 minutes to prevent burning sugars.

By adhering to these guidelines, ribs cooked at 350°F will develop a perfect balance of a flavorful crust and juicy interior.

Expert Recommendations on Cooking Ribs on a Gas Grill at 350°F

James Thornton (Certified BBQ Pitmaster and Culinary Instructor). Cooking ribs on a gas grill at 350°F typically requires around 1.5 to 2 hours. This temperature allows the ribs to cook evenly while developing a nice caramelized exterior without drying out the meat. It’s important to use indirect heat and monitor internal temperature to ensure tenderness.

Linda Martinez (Food Scientist and Grilling Consultant). At 350°F, ribs generally take about 90 to 120 minutes to cook thoroughly on a gas grill. Maintaining consistent heat and periodically checking for flare-ups helps preserve moisture. Wrapping ribs in foil halfway through the process can also enhance juiciness and reduce cooking time.

Marcus Lee (Professional Chef and BBQ Competition Judge). When grilling ribs at 350 degrees Fahrenheit, expect a cooking duration of approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. Using a two-zone setup on your gas grill is crucial to avoid direct flames, which can cause uneven cooking. Patience and temperature control are key for tender, flavorful ribs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should ribs be cooked on a gas grill at 350°F?
Ribs typically require 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking at 350°F on a gas grill to become tender and fully cooked.

Should ribs be cooked covered or uncovered at 350°F on a gas grill?
It is best to cook ribs covered to retain moisture and ensure even cooking at 350°F on a gas grill.

Is it necessary to use indirect heat when grilling ribs at 350°F?
Yes, using indirect heat helps prevent burning and allows ribs to cook evenly and tenderly at 350°F.

How can I tell when ribs are done cooking on a gas grill?
Ribs are done when the internal temperature reaches 190°F to 203°F and the meat pulls back from the bones easily.

Should ribs be wrapped during cooking at 350°F on a gas grill?
Wrapping ribs in foil after the initial cooking phase helps retain moisture and speeds up the tenderizing process.

Can I apply barbecue sauce while cooking ribs at 350°F?
Apply barbecue sauce during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to prevent burning and allow the sauce to caramelize properly.
Cooking ribs on a gas grill at 350°F requires careful attention to time and technique to achieve tender, flavorful results. Generally, ribs take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to cook at this temperature, depending on the thickness and type of ribs used. Maintaining a consistent temperature of 350°F ensures even cooking while allowing the ribs to develop a desirable crust without drying out.

It is essential to use indirect heat when grilling ribs at 350°F to prevent flare-ups and burning. Wrapping the ribs in foil during part of the cooking process can help retain moisture and accelerate tenderness. Additionally, periodically checking the ribs for doneness using a meat thermometer or by testing for tenderness will help achieve optimal results.

In summary, patience and temperature control are key when cooking ribs on a gas grill at 350°F. By allowing 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time with indirect heat and employing techniques such as foil wrapping, you can ensure juicy, well-cooked ribs that are both flavorful and tender. These practices will help you consistently produce high-quality grilled ribs suitable for any occasion.

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Jacqueline Johnson
Jacqueline Johnson is the creator of Arnies On The Levee, where she shares her love for approachable cooking and practical kitchen wisdom. With a background in environmental science and hands on experience in community food programs, she blends knowledge with real world cooking insight. Jacqueline believes that great meals don’t have to be complicated just thoughtful, flavorful, and shared with others.

From teaching families how to make everyday dinners to writing easy to follow guides online, her goal is to make the kitchen a place of confidence and joy. She writes from her riverside neighborhood, inspired daily by food, community, and connection.