Party Ribs served with Mac and Cheese is a fantastic combination for a crowd-pleasing meal! Here’s a guide to preparing both dishes:
1-Party Ribs
Ingredients:
- Pork Ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- Dry Rub (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, chili powder)
- BBQ Sauce (your favorite kind)
- Olive Oil (for coating the ribs)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ribs:
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for tenderness.
- Rub a bit of olive oil over the ribs and generously coat with your dry rub mixture. Let them sit for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the fridge) for the flavors to absorb.
- Cook the Ribs:
- Oven Method: Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Wrap the ribs in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender. For the last 30 minutes, remove the foil, baste with BBQ sauce, and return to the oven uncovered to get a nice glaze.
- Grill Method: Preheat the grill to low heat. Place the ribs on the grill and cook for 3-4 hours, turning occasionally. In the last 30 minutes, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce for a caramelized finish.
- Finish and Serve: Once the ribs are tender and the sauce is sticky, cut them into single or double bone portions. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
2-Mac and Cheese
Ingredients:
- Elbow Macaroni: 1 pound
- Butter: 4 tablespoons
- All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup
- Milk: 3 cups (whole milk works best)
- Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, shredded (sharp or mild)
- Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded (or any melting cheese)
- Salt and Pepper: to taste
- Breadcrumbs (optional for topping)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the macaroni in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour to make a roux and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture thickens (about 5 minutes).
- Remove from heat and stir in the cheeses, mixing until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine: Stir the cooked pasta into the cheese sauce until well coated. If you want a crispy top, transfer the mac and cheese to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes.
- Serve: Plate the mac and cheese alongside the party ribs for a rich, comforting side.
This combo will be a hit at your next gathering, with tender, flavorful ribs paired with creamy, cheesy mac and cheese!