Alternate Honey Barbecue Sauce With Riblets Applebee's Copycat Recipe

Get ready to devour fall-off-the-bone tender riblets with this incredible copycat recipe inspired by Applebee's famous Honey Barbecue sauce! This recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with juicy, flavorful riblets that are sure to become a family favorite. Customize the spice level to your liking – add more heat or dial it back for a milder experience. Serve with classic sides like french fries, coleslaw, or a creamy blue cheese dip for a complete meal. Perfect for game day, family gatherings, or a cozy night in!

Prep Time 30 mins
Cook Time 225 mins
Calories 21497.8 kcal
Protein 3605g
Rating 5.0 (5 Reviews)
Alternate Honey Barbecue Sauce With Riblets Applebee's Copycat 51

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Recipe Author

Chef Forktionary, author of this recipe

Recipe adapted from Food.com. Standardized by Forktionary.

Ingredients for Alternate Honey Barbecue Sauce With Riblets Applebee's Copycat

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How to Make Alternate Honey Barbecue Sauce With Riblets Applebee's Copycat

  1. **Prepare the Riblets:** Season riblets generously with 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 2 cloves minced garlic. Adjust seasoning to your spice preference.
  2. **Sear the Riblets:** Sear riblets on a grill or broiler until both sides are mahogany brown and the meat starts pulling away from the bone (about 3-5 minutes per side).
  3. **Slow Cooker Prep:** Place seared riblets on a rack in a deep roasting pan or slow cooker.
  4. **Liquid Smoke Base:** In the bottom of the pan, create a mixture of 1 cup water and 1 tsp liquid smoke. Pour carefully around the riblets, avoiding direct contact.
  5. **Slow Cook:** Cover the pan tightly with two layers of heavy-duty foil. Slow cook in a 275°F oven for 2-5 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 155°F. Longer cooking times result in more tender riblets.
  6. **Optional Veggies:** For added moisture and flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped onions, 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers, and 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes around the riblets during slow cooking.
  7. **Broil (Optional):** Once tender, remove riblets from the oven and broil for 1-2 minutes for extra caramelization. This step should char the riblets slightly.
  8. **Make the Honey Barbecue Sauce:** In a saucepan, combine all sauce ingredients (see below) and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  9. **Sauce and Serve:** Brush the cooked riblets generously with the honey barbecue sauce just before serving. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)

Sodium

371 g

Sugar

257g

Fat

2731g

Carbs

29g