Cooking delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs can be intimidating for many home cooks. However, with the right techniques and recipes, making tasty ribs at home is easy – especially when you’re starting with high-quality Kirkland Signature Baby Back Pork Ribs from Costco.
An Introduction to Costco’s Kirkland Ribs
Kirkland Signature ribs are Costco’s exclusive line of pork ribs. They come in packs of two slabs, each containing 8-10 ribs. The slabs weigh 4-5 pounds each, so you get plenty of meat for your money. Costco’s pork ribs are juicy, tender and have just the right amount of fat for optimal flavor and moisture.
While you can find many brands of baby back ribs at the grocery store, Costco’s Kirkland ribs consistently earn rave reviews from customers for their premium quality. They’re meaty, cooked to perfection, and slathered in Kirkland’s sweet, tangy, and slightly spicy barbecue sauce.
Compared to other baby back ribs, Kirkland ribs contain more meat between the bones. They have a rich pork flavor balanced by subtle smoke and spice notes. The racks have a tidy, uniform appearance with a nice coating of fattiness that bastes the meat and keeps each bite moist.
Additionally, Kirkland ribs tend to be more reasonably priced than branded ribs from the meat counter or freezer section. Given the stellar quality and cost savings, it’s no wonder why so many backyard barbecue fanatics choose Costco for ribs.
Choosing the Right Rack of Kirkland Ribs
Not all slabs of Kirkland ribs are created equal. Here are a few tips for picking the best racks:
- Inspect the ribs carefully before purchase. Look for racks with consistent marbling and meat distribution from top to bottom.
- Choose racks that have a nice, proportional meat-to-bone ratio. Make sure the ribs aren’t too fatty or bony.
- Avoid racks with large flakes of hardened fat along the edges or excessive blood spots.
- Pick racks that have similar sizing and thickness for even cooking.
- Smell the ribs for a sweet, porky aroma. Pass on any with an off-putting odor.
- Check the sell-by date and pick racks with the furthest date for maximum freshness.
Taking a few moments to hand select your ribs can make a big difference in their flavor and texture once cooked.
How Much Kirkland Ribs to Buy
Kirkland ribs come in a 2-slab pack, but how much should you actually buy? Here are some guidelines:
- For 2-3 people, buy 1 rack (about 4 pounds)
- For 4-6 people, buy 2 racks (about 8 pounds)
- For 6-10 people, buy 3 racks (about 12 pounds)
- For parties or large gatherings, buy 4-6 racks
In general, allow for 1/2 to 3/4 pound of ribs per person. Leftover ribs make delicious sandwiches, so don’t be afraid to buy extra. Uncooked ribs can be frozen for 2-3 months.
How to Thaw Kirkland Ribs
Kirkland ribs arrive frozen to maintain freshness. Here are some safe ways to thaw them:
- In the refrigerator: Place ribs in original packaging on a rimmed sheet pan. Thaw for 24-48 hours, until completely soft.
- Cold water method: Seal ribs in a plastic bag submerged in cold tap water. Change water every 30 mins. Thaws in 1-2 hours.
- Microwave: Defrost ribs in the microwave on 30% power in 5 minute intervals. Thaws in 10-20 mins.
Avoid thawing ribs on the counter or in hot water, as this can cause bacterial growth. Cook ribs immediately after thawing.
How to Prepare Kirkland Ribs for Cooking
Once thawed, here’s how to get Kirkland ribs ready to cook:
- Remove ribs from packaging and rinse under cold water.
- Pat the ribs completely dry with paper towels.
- Peel off the membrane from the back of the rack. This will make the ribs more tender.
- Trim any excess hard fat from the edges and between bones.
- Separate racks into individual ribs, if desired.
- Apply any rubs, marinades or sauces if using.
Leave the silver skin intact on the bone side, as it keeps the ribs from drying out. Now the ribs are ready for your cooking method of choice!
How to Cook Kirkland Ribs
There are several excellent ways to cook juicy, flavorful Kirkland ribs at home. The cooking method depends on your time, equipment, and personal preferences.
Oven Method
Oven-baked ribs are simple and mess-free:
- Preheat oven to 325°F.
- Place ribs meat-side up on a rimmed baking sheet.
- Bake for 2-3 hours until tender.
- Brush ribs with barbecue sauce in the last 30 minutes if desired.
- Rest 5-10 minutes before cutting and serving.
For extra moist ribs, baste them with broth, cider, or water a few times during baking.
Crockpot Method
Use a crockpot for an effortless ribs dinner:
- Add 1 cup broth or water to the crockpot.
- Place ribs meat-side down in a single layer.
- Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.
- Carefully remove ribs and brush with sauce if desired.
- Increase heat to high and cook 10 mins to thicken sauce.
The slow cooking renders the meat completely tender and infuses it with flavor.
Grill Method
Grilled ribs get irresistible caramelization and smoke flavor:
- Prepare a charcoal or gas grill for indirect cooking.
- Cook ribs meat-side up over indirect heat for 2-3 hours.
- Baste ribs with barbecue sauce over direct heat the last 10-15 minutes.
- Remove ribs once nicely charred.
- Let rest 5 minutes then slice and serve.
Maintain an even, moderate temperature on the grill for tender results.
Pressure Cooker Method
A pressure cooker like the Instant Pot makes quick work of ribs:
- Add 1 cup broth to pot and insert ribs gently.
- Lock lid and cook on high pressure for 25-35 minutes.
- Use natural release, then carefully remove ribs.
- Finish ribs under the broiler with barbecue sauce if desired.
The pressurized environment evenly cooks the meat for fall-off-the-bone texture.
Air Fryer Method
Air fryers create crispy, saucy ribs without the mess:
- Cut racks into 2-3 piece sections.
- Brush ribs with oil or sauce.
- Air fry at 370°F for 15-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Coat ribs with more sauce before serving.
The circulating hot air perfectly browns and crisps the sauced exterior.
Tips for Cooking Kirkland Ribs
Follow these tips for the most finger-licking ribs every time:
- Remove the membrane for tender, easy to chew ribs.
- Season ribs all over with a dry rub for maximum flavor.
- Cook low and slow – aim for 300°F or less.
- Lay ribs on their side or meat-side up to prevent curling.
- Spritz ribs during cooking to keep them moist.
- Allow ribs to rest 5-10 minutes before cutting for juicier meat.
- Slice ribs between bones for easier eating.
- Toss or brush ribs with sauce at the end to prevent burning.
Serving Kirkland Ribs
Kirkland ribs pair deliciously with these side dishes and sauces:
Side Dishes
- Baked beans
- Coleslaw
- Corn on the cob
- Mac and cheese
- Potato salad
- Fries or tater tots
- Garlic bread
- Creamed spinach or collard greens
Sauces and Rubs
- Barbecue sauce – sweet, spicy, tangy
- Dry rub – salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar
- Mop sauce – vinegar, broth, oil, herbs
- Mustard sauce
- Sriracha
- Honey
Serve ribs with traditional favorites like cornbread, coleslaw and baked beans. Or get creative with your sides and sauces!
Leftover Kirkland Ribs
Have leftover ribs? Here are delicious ways to use them up:
- Chop and add to baked beans, tacos or nachos.
- Toss with fried rice or pasta.
- Make sliders on Hawaiian rolls.
- Cube for rib hash with potatoes.
- Shred for sandwiches, quesadillas, omelets or salad.
- Simmer in barbecue or teriyaki sauce for cooked ribs.
Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours in airtight containers. Use within 3-4 days.
Freezing Kirkland Ribs
To freeze extra Costco ribs:
- Allow ribs to cool completely after cooking.
- Cut ribs into individual portions if needed.
- Place ribs in a single layer in freezer bags or airtight containers.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal.
- Label with contents and freeze up to 2-3 months.
To use frozen ribs, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove, grill or oven.
Final Tips for Kirkland Signature Ribs
- Inspect ribs closely and select evenly marbled racks.
- Thaw ribs fully before cooking using safe methods.
- Remove membrane before seasoning as desired.
- Cook using your choice of oven, crockpot, grill, pressure cooker or air fryer.
- Slice between bones before serving with classic sides.
- Store leftovers properly and freeze extras for later use.
With quality Kirkland ribs from Costco and these helpful instructions, you’ll become a backyard barbecue pro in no time!
Conclusion
Kirkland Signature ribs from Costco offer an incredible value and exceptionally delicious flavor. With a few simple preparation steps and the cooking method of your choice, you can easily make these tasty, tender pork ribs at home. Experiment with different sauces, sides and seasonings for customized ribs your family and friends will devour. Enjoy your new ribs grilling confidence – thanks to Costco Kirkland ribs!