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

AvatarByNora Gaines General Cooking Queries

When it comes to achieving tender, flavorful ribs with that perfect smoky finish, cooking on a pellet grill has become a favorite method for barbecue enthusiasts. Pellet grills offer a unique combination of convenience and authentic wood-fired flavor, making them ideal for preparing ribs that are juicy and packed with taste. If you’ve ever wondered how long to cook ribs on a pellet grill at 350°F, you’re not alone—this temperature strikes a balance between speed and tenderness, but timing is key to getting the best results.

Cooking ribs at 350 degrees on a pellet grill is a popular approach because it allows the meat to cook relatively quickly while still absorbing the subtle smoke that pellet grills are known for. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on the type of ribs, their size, and whether you prefer them fall-off-the-bone tender or with a bit more bite. Understanding the general timeframe and the factors that influence it will help you confidently plan your next cookout.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the essentials of cooking ribs at 350°F on a pellet grill, including how long to expect the process to take and tips to ensure your ribs come out perfectly every time. Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a weekend griller, mastering this technique will elevate your barbecue

Optimal Cooking Time and Temperature for Ribs on a Pellet Grill

When cooking ribs on a pellet grill at 350°F, timing is crucial to achieve tender, flavorful results without drying out the meat. The higher temperature accelerates the cooking process compared to low-and-slow methods, making it a convenient option for those who want ribs ready within a couple of hours.

Generally, ribs cooked at 350°F will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to finish. This timing depends on several factors, including the type of ribs, their thickness, and how often the grill lid is opened during cooking. Maintaining consistent temperature is key to ensuring the ribs cook evenly.

To gauge doneness, look for the following indicators:

  • The meat should pull back slightly from the bones.
  • The internal temperature of the ribs should reach about 195°F to 203°F for optimal tenderness.
  • The surface should develop a nice caramelized bark without burning.

It is also common to use a two-stage cooking approach even at this temperature, where the ribs are first cooked uncovered for a set time and then wrapped for additional tenderness.

Cooking Guidelines for Different Types of Ribs

The type of ribs you are cooking can affect the precise time needed at 350°F. Here are common rib types and suggested cooking times:

Rib Type Approximate Cooking Time at 350°F Recommended Internal Temperature Notes
Pork Baby Back Ribs 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes 195°F to 203°F More tender, leaner meat; monitor closely to avoid drying out.
Pork Spare Ribs 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours 195°F to 203°F More fat and connective tissue; benefits from wrapping during cooking.
Beef Ribs 2 to 2.5 hours 200°F to 205°F Thicker cuts; often benefit from a wrap to retain moisture.

Tips for Managing Heat and Smoke at 350°F

Although pellet grills are designed for steady heat, managing smoke and airflow is important when cooking ribs at 350°F. Unlike low-and-slow smoking, where heavy smoke is preferred, cooking at higher temperatures requires balancing smoke to avoid bitterness.

Consider the following tips:

  • Use a mild wood pellet such as apple, cherry, or maple to impart a subtle smoke flavor without overpowering the meat.
  • Avoid opening the grill frequently as it causes temperature fluctuations and extends cooking time.
  • If the ribs appear to be browning too quickly, consider tenting them with foil to prevent burning while allowing them to finish cooking.
  • Use a water pan in the grill to help maintain moisture in the cooking chamber, enhancing tenderness.

Resting and Serving After Cooking

Once ribs have reached the desired internal temperature and tenderness, it is important to rest them before serving. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier bite.

  • Remove ribs from the grill and loosely cover them with foil.
  • Let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • During this time, the internal temperature may rise slightly, so factor this into your cooking time.

After resting, ribs can be sliced between the bones and served with your favorite barbecue sauce or dry rub enhancements.

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

Cooking ribs on a pellet grill at a temperature of 350°F requires careful timing to ensure the meat turns out tender, juicy, and flavorful. Unlike low-and-slow methods, a 350°F setting accelerates the cooking process but demands attention to prevent drying out or overcooking.

The general cooking duration for pork ribs at 350°F on a pellet grill ranges between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of ribs and their thickness. Baby back ribs typically cook faster than spare ribs because they are leaner and smaller.

  • Baby Back Ribs: Approximately 1.5 to 1 hour and 45 minutes
  • Spare Ribs: Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours

Monitoring internal temperature and texture is crucial. Ribs should reach an internal temperature of about 195°F to 203°F to ensure the collagen has broken down sufficiently for tenderness.

Rib Type Estimated Cooking Time at 350°F Internal Temperature Target Notes
Baby Back Ribs 1.5 – 1 hour 45 minutes 195°F – 203°F Lean, cooks faster; monitor closely to avoid drying
Spare Ribs 1 hour 45 minutes – 2 hours 195°F – 203°F More fat, slightly longer cooking time; benefits from a rest period

Key Factors Affecting Cooking Time and Quality

Several variables influence how long ribs should remain on a pellet grill at 350°F. Understanding and adjusting for these factors helps achieve the best results.

  • Rib Thickness and Size: Thicker ribs will naturally require more time. Always check the individual rack before removing it from the grill.
  • Pellet Grill Model and Heat Distribution: Some pellet grills have hotter or cooler zones; rotating or repositioning the ribs midway can promote even cooking.
  • Pre-Cooking Preparation: Marinating, brining, or applying a dry rub can impact moisture retention and cooking time.
  • Wrapping (Texas Crutch): Wrapping ribs in foil after initial cooking can reduce cooking time and increase tenderness by trapping steam.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process for Ribs at 350°F on a Pellet Grill

Following a structured approach ensures ribs are cooked perfectly while maximizing flavor and juiciness.

  1. Preheat the Pellet Grill: Set the pellet grill to 350°F and allow it to reach a stable temperature.
  2. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs, apply a dry rub or marinade, and let them rest for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Place Ribs on the Grill: Position ribs bone side down directly on the grill grates.
  4. Cook Uncovered for Initial Phase: Smoke ribs for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to develop bark and flavor.
  5. Optional Wrapping: Wrap ribs tightly in foil with a splash of apple juice or other liquid to create steam and cook for another 30 to 45 minutes.
  6. Finish Cooking Unwrapped: Remove foil and place ribs back on the grill for 15 to 20 minutes to set the bark and glaze with sauce, if desired.
  7. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature is between 195°F and 203°F. The ribs should also be tender enough to bend without breaking.
  8. Rest the Ribs: Let ribs rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing to allow juices to redistribute.

Tips for Achieving Tender Ribs at 350°F

  • Maintain consistent grill temperature by monitoring pellet supply and avoiding frequent lid openings.
  • Utilize wood pellets that complement pork, such as apple, cherry, or hickory, to enhance flavor complexity.
  • Consider spritzing ribs with apple cider vinegar or a thin liquid spray every 30 minutes during cooking to maintain moisture.
  • Do not rush the cooking process; ribs benefit from gradual collagen breakdown even at higher temperatures.
  • Allow ribs to rest after cooking; this step is vital for juiciness and texture.

Expert Insights on Cooking Ribs on a Pellet Grill at 350°F

Chef Marcus Langford (Barbecue Pitmaster and Culinary Instructor). Cooking ribs on a pellet grill at 350°F typically requires about 1.5 to 2 hours. This temperature allows the ribs to cook evenly while developing a nice bark on the exterior. It is important to monitor internal temperature and texture rather than relying solely on time, aiming for an internal temperature around 195°F to ensure tenderness.

Dr. Emily Chen (Food Scientist, Meat Science Research Institute). At 350°F, ribs undergo a balance of Maillard reaction and collagen breakdown, which generally completes within 90 to 120 minutes. Maintaining consistent heat and using a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of 190°F to 203°F is critical for optimal tenderness and juiciness when cooking on a pellet grill.

James O’Connor (Outdoor Cooking Expert and Author of “Mastering Pellet Grilling”). When grilling ribs at 350°F on a pellet grill, expect a cook time of approximately 90 minutes. Wrapping the ribs in foil after the first hour can help retain moisture and accelerate tenderness. Always allow a resting period after cooking to let the juices redistribute for the best eating experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long should ribs be cooked on a pellet grill at 350°F?
Ribs typically take about 1.5 to 2 hours to cook thoroughly at 350°F on a pellet grill, depending on the rib type and thickness.

Is 350°F an ideal temperature for cooking ribs on a pellet grill?
Yes, 350°F is a suitable temperature for cooking ribs relatively quickly while still achieving tender results, though lower temperatures yield more tender meat over longer periods.

Should ribs be wrapped during cooking at 350°F on a pellet grill?
Wrapping ribs in foil halfway through cooking helps retain moisture and can improve tenderness when cooking at 350°F.

How can I tell when ribs are done on a pellet grill at 350°F?
Ribs are done when the internal temperature reaches around 190-203°F, and the meat pulls back from the bones with a tender texture.

Do I need to preheat the pellet grill before cooking ribs at 350°F?
Yes, preheating the pellet grill to 350°F ensures consistent cooking temperature and better overall results.

Can I cook ribs faster by increasing the pellet grill temperature above 350°F?
Increasing the temperature can reduce cooking time but may result in tougher ribs; 350°F balances cooking speed and tenderness effectively.
Cooking ribs on a pellet grill at 350°F typically requires a balance between time and temperature to achieve tender, flavorful results. Generally, ribs take about 1.5 to 2 hours at this temperature, depending on the type of ribs and their thickness. This method allows the ribs to cook evenly while developing a desirable bark and maintaining juiciness.

It is important to monitor the internal temperature of the ribs, aiming for around 190°F to 203°F, which ensures the connective tissues break down properly for tenderness. Additionally, using a combination of direct heat and indirect heat zones on the pellet grill can help control flare-ups and promote even cooking. Wrapping the ribs in foil during part of the cooking process can also enhance moisture retention and tenderness.

In summary, cooking ribs at 350°F on a pellet grill is an efficient approach that balances cooking time and heat to produce delicious results. Patience, temperature control, and proper preparation are key factors in achieving ribs that are both flavorful and tender. Understanding these principles allows for consistent and satisfying outcomes when grilling ribs on a pellet smoker.

Author Profile

Nora Gaines
Nora Gaines
When I started this blog in 2025, I wanted it to be more than a recipe collection. Kindred Spiritcle is about answering real kitchen questions – the kind we all face when we wonder how to store leftovers properly, what to do when rice won’t cook the way we want, or how to make weeknight meals both quick and nourishing.

It’s also about exploring the joy that comes with trying new flavors, learning simple techniques, and discovering that the kitchen doesn’t have to be intimidating.

Every article here is written to feel like a conversation with a friend. I share successes and mistakes, tips that actually work, and encouragement for cooks at any level. Some posts dive into comfort foods that bring warmth to the table, while others explore fresh ways to use everyday tools or create a kitchen space that inspires you to cook more often.