Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs – Sweet, Savory & Fall-Off-the-Bone Delicious

If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, finger-licking dinner that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, these Sticky Honey Garlic Ribs are your perfect go-to. Glazed with a rich, sweet, and garlicky sauce, these ribs are incredibly tender, sticky, and irresistible. Whether you’re making them for a weekend meal, a BBQ party, or a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love These Ribs

Perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
Tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone
Easy to prep with everyday ingredients
Oven-baked, so no grill required
Great for meal prep or special occasions

Ingredients

2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs work great)
1/4 cup honey (for that sticky glaze)
1/4 cup soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
3 tablespoons brown sugar
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon rice vinegar or any mild vinegar
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger (optional but adds warmth)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional for extra depth)
Cracked black pepper, to taste
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness.
Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
Place ribs in a large zip-lock bag or glass container.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, vinegar, ginger, and sesame oil.
Pour the marinade over the ribs and coat well.
Marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

Step 3: Bake the Ribs

Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
Line a baking tray with foil and place the ribs meat-side up. Cover with more foil.
Bake for 2 hours until tender.

Step 4: Caramelize the Glaze

Remove the foil and brush the ribs with leftover marinade.
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C).
Bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until sticky and slightly charred.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Rest ribs for 5 minutes before slicing.
Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions.
Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or fresh salad.

Pro Tips

No pork? Substitute with beef short ribs or chicken wings using the same sauce.
For smoky flavor, finish the ribs on a grill or broil them in the oven for 2–3 minutes.
Double the sauce and use it as a dipping glaze or to brush on veggies.

FAQs

Can I cook these in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook on low for 6–7 hours, then glaze and broil to finish.

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

What makes them sticky? Steak avec sauce crémeuse au Gorgonzola
The sugar and honey caramelize during baking, giving the ribs that perfect sticky finish.

Health Benefits of Garlic & Honey

Garlic: Rich in antioxidants, supports immune function
Honey: Natural sweetener, helps balance flavor and adds shine