BBQ Ribs with Coleslaw and Fries is the ultimate comfort food combination, perfect for weekend dinners, summer cookouts, or special gatherings. Juicy, tender pork ribs are coated in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce, accompanied by crisp, tangy coleslaw and golden, crispy fries. This meal is indulgent yet balanced, offering a mix of savory, sweet, and fresh flavors in every bite.

I love this recipe because it brings the essence of classic barbecue to the home kitchen. The ribs are tender and flavorful, the coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch, and the fries complete the experience with their satisfying crispiness. It’s a dish that impresses guests and pleases family members alike.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it combines textures and flavors in a perfect harmony. The ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, coated with a smoky, tangy sauce, while the coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast with its creamy crunch. The fries are golden and crispy, making the dish complete and satisfying.

This meal is also versatile; you can adjust the barbecue sauce to your taste, swap fries for roasted potatoes, or make the coleslaw lighter with a vinegar-based dressing. It’s comforting, indulgent, and perfect for sharing.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

BBQ Ribs with Coleslaw and Fries is a must-try because it captures the essence of traditional barbecue in one plate. The ribs are packed with flavor and tenderness that can rival restaurant-quality barbecue. Coleslaw balances the richness with a refreshing crunch, and fries provide that irresistible comfort food element.

This dish is ideal for family dinners, parties, or summer gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that is both hearty and satisfying, making it worth trying at least once if you love barbecue.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours (including oven/slow cook time)
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Servings and Calories

• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 750 per serving
• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

For the BBQ Ribs

• 2 lbs pork ribs
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

For the Coleslaw

• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 carrot, grated
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Fries

• 4 large potatoes, cut into fries
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika

Cooking Directions

Ribs

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
3. Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil, cover with foil, and bake for 2 hours until tender.
4. Remove foil, brush ribs with barbecue sauce, and broil or bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–15 minutes to caramelize the sauce.

Coleslaw

1. In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrot, and red onion.
2. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour dressing over vegetables and toss until evenly coated. Chill until ready to serve.

Fries

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss potato fries with olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare and Cook Ribs

1. Preheat oven and season ribs.
2. Cover and bake ribs until tender.
3. Brush with barbecue sauce and broil/bake to caramelize.

Step 2: Make Coleslaw

1. Shred cabbage and carrots, slice onion.
2. Mix mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. Toss vegetables with dressing and chill.

Step 3: Bake Fries

1. Toss potatoes with oil and seasonings.
2. Spread on baking sheet and bake until golden, flipping once.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Place ribs on a plate with a generous serving of coleslaw and fries.
2. Serve immediately with extra barbecue sauce on the side if desired.

How to Serve This Recipe

• Serve as a hearty main course for lunch or dinner.
• Pair with extra barbecue sauce and lemon wedges if desired.
• Add pickles or a side of baked beans for a classic barbecue meal.
• Serve on large platters for family-style gatherings.

Recipe Tips

• For extra tender ribs, cook low and slow in a covered dish or slow cooker.
• Pat fries dry before baking to ensure crispiness.
• Make coleslaw ahead of time to allow flavors to meld.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure ribs reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
• Adjust barbecue sauce sweetness and spiciness according to preference.

Variations

• Spicy Ribs: Add chili powder or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce.
• Sweet Coleslaw: Use honey or maple syrup in the dressing.
• Loaded Fries: Top fries with cheese, bacon bits, or herbs.
• Grilled Option: Grill ribs instead of baking for smoky flavor.
• Low-Carb: Serve ribs with coleslaw only, skipping fries.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover ribs, coleslaw, and fries separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Ribs can be frozen cooked or uncooked for up to 2 months. Coleslaw is best fresh, while fries lose crispiness after freezing. Reheat ribs in the oven.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet and foil
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Oven or grill
• Meat thermometer (optional)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the ribs in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook seasoned ribs on low for 6–8 hours, then brush with barbecue sauce and broil for 5–10 minutes.

Can I prepare coleslaw ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made a few hours ahead or overnight for better flavor.

Are the fries healthier if baked?
Yes, baking fries uses less oil and is a healthier alternative to deep-frying.

Can I use baby back ribs instead of pork ribs?
Yes, baby back ribs work well and may require slightly less cooking time.

Can I use homemade barbecue sauce?
Absolutely, homemade sauce enhances flavor and allows customization.

Conclusion

BBQ Ribs with Coleslaw and Fries is a classic, hearty, and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. The tender, flavorful ribs paired with tangy coleslaw and crispy fries create a balanced, indulgent dish. Easy to prepare yet impressive in presentation and taste, this recipe brings the essence of traditional barbecue to your kitchen, making it a must-try for family dinners, cookouts, or special gatherings.