If you're ready to take your backyard BBQ to actual ranch-hand status, look no further than these Best-Ever Barbecue Spare Ribs featuring Watkins Inc.'s bold Yellowstone Seasonings. These meaty, flavorful ribs deliver that perfect combo of smoky, savory, and sweet, just like a cookout under the big sky.

The Flavor Foundation: Yellowstone Seasonings

We kick things off with a dynamic duo from Watkins: the Yellowstone Rancher's All-Purpose Seasoning and Rub, and the Yellowstone Cattleman Steak Seasoning and Rub. The Rancher's blend provides a savory base with herbs and spices that awaken your taste buds, while the Cattleman's mix adds a robust, beefy punch that takes the flavor to the next level.

Step-by-Step Ribs, Dutton-Style

1. Prep the Ribs: Start with pork spare ribs and remove the membrane from the bone side. This ensures tenderness and allows the flavors to soak deeply into the meat.

2. Apply the Rub: Pat the ribs dry and coat them generously with both Yellowstone seasonings. Let them rest, covered, in the fridge for at least one hour — or overnight if possible. This is your flavor marination magic.

3. Grill Low & Slow: Set your grill for indirect heat around 275°F. Place a drip pan with a small amount of apple juice underneath to provide moisture. Grill the ribs bone-side down with the lid closed for 2.5 to 3 hours.

4. Saucy Finale: In the last 15–20 minutes, brush the ribs with a BBQ sauce mix enhanced with a bit of honey and a spoonful of Rancher's seasoning. Move them over direct heat and keep flipping and basting until the sauce caramelizes and becomes beautifully sticky.

5. Rest & Slice: Let the ribs rest 10 minutes before slicing between the bones. Get ready for the smoky-sweet, fall-off-the-bone moment.

Perfect Pairings

Sides:

• Grilled Corn with Chili Butter – adds a spicy pop

• Cowboy Baked Beans – smoky and rich

• Crispy Coleslaw – crunchy, creamy balance

Drinks:

• Bourbon Lemonade – sweet and smoky

• Iced Sweet Tea with Mint – southern classic

• Craft Root Beer – nostalgic and non-alcoholic

Desserts:

• Peach Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream – warm and comforting

• Grilled Pineapple with Brown Sugar Glaze – caramelized perfection

This recipe is perfect for lazy weekends, Fourth of July celebrations, or anytime you want to channel your inner cowboy (a hat is optional, but recommended). Fire up that grill, throw on some Yellowstone vibes, and dig into the best spare ribs this side of the ranch!