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

AvatarByCynthia Crase Food Storage & Preservation

When it comes to grilling ribs, achieving that perfect balance of tender, juicy meat with a smoky, caramelized crust can feel like a culinary art form. One of the most common questions grilling enthusiasts ask is, “How long to cook ribs on a gas grill at 350 degrees?” This temperature strikes a sweet spot—hot enough to develop rich flavors and a beautiful sear, yet gentle enough to slowly break down the connective tissues that make ribs so irresistibly tender.

Cooking ribs on a gas grill requires a bit of patience and technique, especially when aiming for that ideal 350-degree heat. Unlike charcoal or smoking methods, gas grills offer precise temperature control, making them a favorite for many home cooks. However, the exact cooking time can vary depending on the type of ribs, their thickness, and whether you’re using direct or indirect heat. Understanding these factors is key to mastering the grill and serving ribs that impress every time.

In the sections ahead, we’ll explore the essentials of grilling ribs at 350 degrees on a gas grill. From preparation tips to timing guidelines, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to confidently fire up your grill and create mouthwatering ribs that are sure to be a hit at any cookout.

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

When cooking ribs on a gas grill set to 350°F, understanding the balance between temperature and time is essential to achieve tender, flavorful results. At this moderate heat, ribs cook faster than at low-and-slow temperatures but still require careful attention to avoid drying out or overcooking.

Typically, ribs at 350°F will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to cook through, depending on the type and thickness of the ribs. This temperature allows the meat to cook evenly while gradually breaking down connective tissues, resulting in tender ribs with a slight char on the exterior.

Several factors influence the exact cooking time, including rib cut, grill type, and whether the ribs are cooked directly over the heat or using indirect heat methods. For best results, indirect grilling is recommended, where the ribs are placed away from the direct flame to prevent flare-ups and uneven cooking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process for Ribs at 350°F

Start by preheating your gas grill to a steady 350°F. Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back and applying a dry rub or marinade of your choice. Once the grill is ready:

  • Arrange the ribs on the grill grate away from the direct flame to utilize indirect heat.
  • Close the lid to maintain consistent temperature and smoke circulation.
  • Rotate the ribs every 20-30 minutes to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.
  • Optionally, baste the ribs with a sauce during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to enhance flavor without burning the sugars in the sauce.

Monitoring the internal temperature of the ribs is a reliable way to determine doneness. The ideal internal temperature for tender ribs is around 195°F to 203°F, at which point the collagen has sufficiently broken down.

Typical Cooking Times for Different Types of Ribs at 350°F

Cooking times will vary based on the type of ribs being grilled. Below is a general guideline for popular rib cuts cooked at 350°F using indirect heat:

Rib Type Approximate Cooking Time Recommended Internal Temperature Notes
Pork Baby Back Ribs 1.5 to 2 hours 195°F to 203°F Cook with foil wrap for tenderness if desired
Pork Spare Ribs 1.75 to 2.5 hours 195°F to 203°F May require longer cooking due to thicker meat
Beef Back Ribs 2 to 3 hours 200°F to 205°F Benefit from a longer cook to break down tougher connective tissue
Beef Short Ribs 2.5 to 3.5 hours 200°F to 205°F Best cooked low and slow but can be done at 350°F with monitoring

Tips for Maintaining Optimal Grill Temperature and Moisture

Maintaining a consistent 350°F on a gas grill requires some attention, especially during longer cooking times. Here are key tips to ensure stability and moisture retention:

  • Use a reliable grill thermometer to monitor grill temperature independently of the built-in gauge.
  • Adjust burner settings incrementally to avoid temperature spikes.
  • Keep the grill lid closed as much as possible to conserve heat and smoke.
  • Place a water pan beneath the grill grate (but not directly over burners) to add humidity and prevent ribs from drying out.
  • Consider wrapping ribs in aluminum foil (“the Texas crutch”) midway through cooking to lock in moisture and accelerate tenderness.

Applying these techniques will help you produce ribs that are juicy and tender, with a balanced smoky flavor and an appealing caramelized crust at 350°F.

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

Cooking ribs on a gas grill at a steady temperature of 350°F requires careful attention to time and technique to ensure tender, flavorful results. The cooking duration depends on the type of ribs and whether you choose direct or indirect grilling.

For most types of ribs—baby back ribs, spare ribs, or St. Louis style ribs—the approximate cooking time at 350°F is as follows:

  • Baby Back Ribs: 45 to 60 minutes
  • Spare Ribs: 60 to 75 minutes
  • St. Louis Style Ribs: 60 to 75 minutes

These time frames assume indirect grilling, which is recommended to prevent burning and to allow the ribs to cook evenly.

Using Indirect Heat to Cook Ribs on a Gas Grill

Indirect heat cooking is essential when grilling ribs at 350°F to avoid flare-ups and to cook the meat evenly without drying it out. To set up your gas grill for indirect cooking:

  • Preheat the grill to 350°F with one or two burners on medium-high and the others off.
  • Place a drip pan under the grates where the ribs will sit to catch fat and juices, preventing flare-ups.
  • Position the ribs on the side of the grill without direct flame underneath.
  • Close the lid to maintain consistent temperature and smoke circulation.

Monitor the grill temperature throughout the cook time, adjusting burner settings as needed to maintain the 350°F target.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process and Tips

Step Action Details
1 Preparation Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness; apply a dry rub or marinade as desired.
2 Preheat Grill Set up the grill for indirect heat and preheat to a consistent 350°F.
3 Place Ribs on Grill Lay ribs bone side down on the indirect heat side of the grill.
4 Cook with Lid Closed Maintain temperature and avoid opening the lid frequently to retain heat and smoke.
5 Check for Doneness After 45-75 minutes depending on rib type, check tenderness by bending ribs or using a meat thermometer (internal temp ~190-203°F).
6 Optional Glazing In the last 10-15 minutes, brush on barbecue sauce or glaze; move ribs to direct heat briefly to caramelize if desired.
7 Rest and Serve Let ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before cutting to allow juices to redistribute.

Additional Tips for Perfectly Cooked Ribs at 350°F

  • Use a reliable grill thermometer: Built-in thermometers can be inaccurate. Use a high-quality grill thermometer to monitor temperature precisely.
  • Maintain consistent heat: Avoid opening the lid frequently to prevent heat loss and uneven cooking.
  • Consider smoke flavor: Add wood chips in a smoker box or foil pouch on the grill for enhanced smoky aroma.
  • Check tenderness rather than time alone: Use the bend test—ribs should bend easily without breaking—or a meat probe to confirm doneness.
  • Adjust cooking time based on rib size: Larger or thicker ribs may require additional time, while smaller racks cook faster.

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

James Thornton (Certified Pitmaster and Culinary Instructor). Cooking ribs on a gas grill at 350 degrees Fahrenheit typically requires about 1.5 to 2 hours to achieve tender, flavorful results. It is crucial to maintain consistent heat and use indirect grilling methods to prevent drying out the meat while allowing the connective tissues to break down properly.

Linda Martinez (Food Scientist and Barbecue Consultant). At a steady 350°F, ribs generally take around 90 minutes to 2 hours to cook thoroughly. Monitoring internal temperature and occasionally basting can enhance juiciness. Using a meat thermometer to reach an internal temperature of approximately 190°F ensures the ribs are tender without overcooking.

Robert Chen (Grill Master and Author of “The Art of Outdoor Cooking”). When grilling ribs at 350 degrees on a gas grill, a cooking time of about 1 hour and 45 minutes is optimal. Employing a two-zone setup with indirect heat and wrapping the ribs in foil midway helps retain moisture and develop a rich smoky flavor, even without a charcoal or wood fire.

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 time at 350°F on a gas grill to become tender and fully cooked.

Should the ribs be cooked covered or uncovered at 350°F?
It is best to cook ribs covered to retain moisture and ensure even cooking when grilling at 350°F.

How can I tell when ribs are done 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.

Is it better to use direct or indirect heat for ribs at 350°F?
Using indirect heat at 350°F is recommended to prevent burning and allow slow, even cooking of the ribs.

Can I baste ribs while cooking on a gas grill at 350°F?
Yes, basting ribs periodically with sauce or marinade helps enhance flavor and keep the meat moist during grilling.

Do I need to preheat the gas grill to 350°F before cooking ribs?
Yes, preheating the grill to a steady 350°F ensures consistent cooking temperature and better results.
Cooking ribs on a gas grill at 350°F requires careful attention to timing and technique to achieve tender, flavorful results. Generally, ribs should be cooked for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours at this temperature, allowing the meat to become tender while maintaining moisture. It is important to monitor the internal temperature and use indirect heat to prevent burning and ensure even cooking throughout the rack.

Key takeaways include the necessity of prepping the ribs properly, such as removing the membrane and applying a dry rub or marinade before grilling. Utilizing a two-zone cooking method on the gas grill—where one side is set to direct heat and the other to indirect heat—can help control the cooking process. Wrapping the ribs in foil during part of the cooking time can also enhance tenderness by trapping steam and heat.

Ultimately, patience and consistent temperature control are critical when cooking ribs at 350°F on a gas grill. Checking for doneness by testing for tenderness and ensuring the meat pulls away easily from the bone will result in a satisfying and delicious meal. Following these guidelines will help achieve perfectly cooked ribs with a desirable balance of smoky flavor and juiciness.

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Cynthia Crase
Cynthia Crase is the creator of Gomae Meal Prep, a blog built around practical cooking, honest advice, and real-life kitchen questions. Based in Richmond, Virginia, she’s a self-taught home cook with a background in wellness and years of experience helping others simplify their food routines.

Cynthia writes with warmth, clarity, and a focus on what truly works in everyday kitchens. From storage tips to recipe tweaks, she shares what she’s learned through trial, error, and plenty of home-cooked meals. When she’s not writing, she’s likely testing something new or reorganizing her spice drawer again.