Ribs are a popular barbecue food, and buying them in full slab portions can be more economical than buying individual servings. But how much does a full slab of ribs cost? The price can vary quite a bit depending on the type, weight, quality, and source of the ribs.
Types of Ribs
There are a few main types of ribs that are commonly sold in full slab portions:
- Pork spare ribs – This is the most common and affordable type of rib. Pork spare ribs come from the belly side of the pig.
- Pork baby back ribs – Also from pork, these ribs are shorter and come from closer to the hog’s backbone. They tend to be more tender and expensive.
- Beef ribs – Cut from the ribs of a cow, beef ribs tend to be larger but have more bone and less meat.
- Dinosaur/beef back ribs – From the beef plate primal cut near the mid-section, these ribs have a large bone with tender meat.
Within these main categories, the ribs can also be cut and prepared in different styles, such as St. Louis-style (trimmed spare ribs), Kansas City-style, and Memphis-style.
Slab Sizes
Ribs are sold by weight in full slab portions. Here are some typical slab sizes you can find:
- Pork spare ribs – 3-4 lbs
- Pork baby back ribs – 2-2.5 lbs
- Beef ribs – 5-7 lbs
- Dinosaur ribs – 7-10 lbs
In general, pork ribs come in smaller slabs while beef ribs are larger and heavier. Of course, slab weights can vary beyond these typical sizes.
Average Prices
The price per pound for a full slab of ribs can range anywhere from $4-$12 per pound based on the quality, type, and source:
| Rib Type | Average Price Per Pound |
|---|---|
| Pork spare ribs | $4-$8 |
| Pork baby back ribs | $6-$10 |
| Beef ribs | $6-$12 |
| Dinosaur ribs | $10-$12 |
As you can see, pork spare ribs are often the most affordable at around $4-$8 per pound. Higher quality pork baby backs usually run $6-10 per pound. Beef ribs and dinosaur ribs are premium types priced from $6 per pound up to $12 per pound.
Price from Different Suppliers
Where you buy your ribs will impact how much you pay per slab as well. Here are some average per pound prices from different suppliers:
- Grocery store – $7-10 per pound
- Club store – $5-8 per pound
- Butcher shop – $6-12 per pound
- Online retailer – $8-12 per pound
Grocery stores offer convenience but tend to be on the pricier side. Club stores like Costco offer ribs at better value in bulk quantities. Local butcher shops have specialty cuts and quality ribs at premium prices. Online mail order ribs tend to be pricey but deliver right to your door.
Other Cost Factors
In addition to the base price per pound, other factors like quality grade, preparation, and shipping costs can affect the overall price:
- Quality grade – Higher grades like USDA Prime or Choice will cost more than Select.
- Pre-seasoned or marinated – Value-added preps will increase cost but save prep time.
- Shipping – Online/mail order ribs involve shipping fees for fresh or expedited delivery.
Estimated Full Slab Prices
Given typical per pound prices and different slab sizes, here are some price ranges you can expect to pay for a full slab:
| Rib Type | Typical Slab Weight | Price Range for Full Slab |
|---|---|---|
| Pork spare ribs | 3-4 lbs | $12-$32 |
| Pork baby back ribs | 2-2.5 lbs | $12-$25 |
| Beef ribs | 5-7 lbs | $30-$84 |
| Dinosaur ribs | 7-10 lbs | $70-$120 |
As you can see, a full slab can range from $12 for basic pork spare ribs up to $120 or more for premium dinosaur ribs. Pork baby backs fall in the $12-$25 range for a full slab in most cases.
Ways to Save
Here are some tips to get your ribs at the best price:
- Buy pork spare ribs for the most affordable option
- Shop club stores for bulk deals
- Check for sales and promotions at grocers
- Ask your butcher for specials or pre-order deals
- Split larger slabs with friends
- Look for discounts on vendor sites online
Conclusion
When buying ribs in full slab portions, you can expect to pay anywhere from $12 to over $100 depending on the specific type, quality, weight, supplier, and other factors. Pork spare ribs offer the most reasonable value at around $4 to $8 per pound. Higher grade premium pork and beef ribs run closer to $10+ per pound. To get the best deal, shop sales and bulk pricing at club and grocery stores, and split larger slabs. With the right shopping strategies, you can get an abundant, meaty slab of barbecue ribs without breaking the bank.