The Knorr rib sandwich recipe isn’t just another backyard meal—it’s a mouthwatering fusion of smoky ribs, tangy sauce, and tender bread that captures the soul of Southern comfort food. Whether you’re craving a homemade take on a fast-food classic or looking for a family-friendly slow cooker dinner, this barbecue rib sandwich delivers.
Crafted with the bold flavors of Knorr seasoning, including a clever twist with their Sauerbraten mix, this copycat recipe packs in nostalgic taste with a gourmet touch. From juicy slow-cooked pork ribs to toasted buns piled high with toppings like slaw or pickles, it’s a sandwich designed to satisfy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make it from scratch—using real ingredients, real flavor, and real love.
Table of Contents
Introduction to the Knorr Rib Sandwich Recipe
What Is the Knorr Rib Sandwich Recipe and Why Is It So Popular?
The Knorr rib sandwich recipe is a home-cooked take on a BBQ favorite—a smoky, meaty rib sandwich layered with a savory sauce and nestled in a soft, toasted bun. What sets this one apart is the smart use of Knorr flavor packets, especially the Knorr Sauerbraten mix, to infuse the meat with a deep, tangy richness you don’t get from just bottled BBQ sauce.
Its popularity comes from its mix of comfort and crave-worthy flavor. Think fast-food inspired, but slow-cooked at home—with ingredients you trust. Whether you’re serving it at a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, it’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make.
Origins of the Rib Sandwich: From Backyard BBQs to Fast-Food Fame
The rib sandwich has humble, smoky roots in the South. Born from backyard BBQs and roadside diners, it was designed to make use of leftover ribs and sauce—but over time, it evolved into a full-on cult classic. When certain fast-food chains launched their own limited-time versions (hello, Ribwich), the sandwich gained national fame.
But the homemade version? That’s where the magic happens. Using slow-cooked ribs, flavorful spice blends, and a little creative flair, you can take this sandwich from nostalgic to next-level. Adding Knorr’s seasoning to the mix upgrades it with that signature tang that fans of sauerbraten know and love.
Ingredients Breakdown for a Flavor-Packed Rib Sandwich
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Knorr Rib Sandwich Copycat
To create a true copycat version of the Knorr rib sandwich recipe, it all begins with the right ingredients. This isn’t the place to cut corners—quality makes the difference when you’re chasing that perfect blend of tender meat, bold seasoning, and just the right saucy bite.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pork ribs (boneless or bone-in) | The juicy, smoky meat star of the sandwich |
| Knorr Sauerbraten mix | Adds tang, depth, and classic German-style seasoning |
| Apple cider vinegar | Enhances the savory and tangy flavor profile |
| Brown sugar | Balances acidity with sweetness |
| Garlic powder & onion powder | Essential aromatics for depth |
| Smoked paprika | Boosts the smoky, BBQ essence |
| Your favorite BBQ sauce | Glaze and topping |
| Sandwich buns | Soft but sturdy enough to hold all that goodness |
| Pickles or coleslaw | For crunch, tang, and balance |
Optional Add-Ons: Red onion slices, melted cheese, banana peppers, or even jalapeños if you like a kick.
These ingredients work together to deliver a layered taste experience: savory, sweet, smoky, and just a little tangy—all in one bite. That’s the real secret behind the Knorr rib sandwich recipe—it’s not just about what goes into the pot, but what it becomes after hours of slow cooking or smoking.
Looking for inspiration? Try our slow cooker cheesy mozzarella chicken for another family-approved comfort dish.
Knorr Sauerbraten Mix: The Secret to that Authentic Tang
You might be asking, “Why use Knorr Sauerbraten mix in a barbecue rib sandwich?” The answer: flavor layering.
Traditional sauerbraten is a German pot roast with a deep, vinegary marinade packed with spices. When you incorporate that mix into a rib dish, it brings an unexpected brightness and tanginess that cuts through the richness of the pork. It’s a brilliant twist—giving your sandwich depth and complexity.
Plus, the spice blend in the Knorr sauerbraten recipe mix includes cloves, bay leaf, black pepper, and other warm flavors that complement smoked meat beautifully. Use it as a dry rub or incorporate it into the cooking liquid to build boldness right from the start.
Discover great ideas like our slow cooker creamy lemon herb chicken for another recipe using bold flavor profiles.
Knorr Rib Sandwich Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Description
This Knorr Rib Sandwich is a mouthwatering fusion of tender boneless pork ribs, bold BBQ flavors, and the rich tang of Knorr’s Sauerbraten mix. Slow-baked to perfection and finished with a caramelized broil, the ribs are shredded and piled high on toasted brioche buns. Topped with crisp pickles, tangy slaw, or onions, this sandwich brings comfort food and BBQ together in one unforgettable bite—perfect for weekend dinners, game days, or your own homemade Ribwich experience.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork ribs
- 1 packet Knorr Sauerbraten mix
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika
- 4 brioche buns
- Toppings: pickles, slaw, onions
Instructions
- Rub ribs with spices and Knorr mix.
- Marinate for at least 2 hours.
- Bake at 300°F for 2.5 hours wrapped in foil.
- Unwrap, glaze with BBQ sauce, broil 5 mins.
- Shred and serve on toasted buns with toppings.
Notes
This sandwich is a flavorful twist on the classic Ribwich, made easy and extra savory with Knorr’s Sauerbraten mix. Great for cookouts or cozy weekend meals.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Baked & Broiled
- Cuisine: American BBQ
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: ~550 kcal
- Sugar: ~12 g
- Sodium: ~950 mg
- Fat: ~24 g
- Saturated Fat: ~8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~14 g
- Trans Fat: ~0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~48 g
- Fiber: ~2 g
- Protein: ~32 g
- Cholesterol: ~95 mg
Keywords: knorr rib sandwich recipe, bbq rib sandwich, homemade Ribwich
How to Prepare Ribs for Your Sandwich Like a Pro
Choosing the Right Ribs: Baby Back, Spare, or Boneless?
When making the Knorr rib sandwich recipe, the first real decision is the meat. While some go straight for boneless country-style ribs, others prefer traditional racks with the bones intact for that deep, smoky richness. Here’s a quick breakdown of your best options:
| Rib Type | Pros |
|---|---|
| Baby Back Ribs | Tender, leaner, cooks faster—great for oven or smoker |
| Spare Ribs | Meatier, more flavorful, perfect for slow cooking |
| Boneless Pork Ribs | Easiest to eat in sandwich form, ideal for beginners |
If you’re using a slow cooker (which this knorr rib sandwich recipe works beautifully with), boneless is super convenient. But if you’re all about smoky flavor and don’t mind pulling meat off the bone, spare ribs take it to the next level.
Don’t miss our slow cooker mac and cheese with cream cheese—a perfect side dish pairing for your rib sandwich.
Slow Cooking vs Smoking vs Grilling: Best Methods Compared
Different cooking methods bring out different textures and flavors in your ribs. For this Knorr rib sandwich recipe, we recommend slow cooking for its hands-off ease and melt-in-your-mouth results, but let’s weigh your options:
- Slow Cooker Method: Set it and forget it. Add ribs, Knorr Sauerbraten mix, a bit of vinegar and brown sugar, and let it simmer for 6–8 hours. The result? Ultra-tender, flavorful ribs.
- Smoker: Ideal for barbecue purists. Coat the ribs with the seasoning blend (including Knorr mix), smoke low and slow, then finish with a sweet-spicy BBQ glaze. Adds deep, woodsy flavor.
- Oven Roasting: Great if you’re in a rush. Wrap ribs in foil with your seasoning, roast at low heat, then broil to crisp up the edges. This method brings great texture with less time.
Each method can make your knorr rib sandwich recipe a hit. But slow cooking brings unbeatable tenderness and gives the seasoning time to truly soak in.
Learn more about low-effort family meals in our frozen meatballs in slow cooker recipe.
Cooking Method – Step-by-Step Knorr Rib Sandwich Recipe
Full Recipe Instructions: Oven and Grill Versions Only
There’s more than one way to bring the Knorr rib sandwich recipe to life—and whether you’re craving smoky char or oven-roasted perfection, this section walks you through it. No slow cookers required—just bold flavor and real barbecue technique. Let’s dig into the two best non-slow-cooker ways to recreate this classic rib sandwich at home.
Oven-Baked Method (Quick and Flavorful)
This is one of the fastest ways to cook ribs for the Knorr rib sandwich recipe while still achieving mouthwatering tenderness.
- Season the Ribs
Pat ribs dry. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and one full packet of Knorr Sauerbraten mix. Rub generously on both sides of the ribs. - Marinate for Depth
For best results, wrap seasoned ribs in plastic and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. This enhances the flavor foundation of your Knorr rib sandwich recipe. - Roast to Tenderness
Preheat your oven to 300°F. Place ribs on a foil-lined baking tray, wrap tightly, and roast for 2.5–3 hours until meat is fork-tender. - Glaze and Broil
Unwrap ribs, baste with BBQ sauce, and broil on high for 5–7 minutes until edges caramelize. - Shred and Stack
Remove meat from bones, pile it high on toasted buns, and top with pickles or coleslaw. That’s how you build the best Knorr rib sandwich recipe in the oven.
Grill Method (For BBQ Purists)
Nothing beats the smoky edge you get from a grill. This version of the Knorr rib sandwich recipe captures that fire-kissed flavor and elevates every bite.
- Create a Bold Dry Rub
Mix your spice blend using brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and Knorr Sauerbraten mix. Rub it all over your ribs and let them sit at room temp for 30 minutes. - Set Up for Indirect Heat
Preheat your grill to 250°F using indirect heat. Add soaked wood chips or a smoke pack for extra flavor. - Smoke and Rotate
Place ribs on the cooler side of the grill. Cover and smoke for 2.5 to 3 hours, turning every 45 minutes for even cooking. - Sauce and Finish
In the final 30 minutes, baste with a tangy BBQ glaze. Cover again so the sauce thickens into a sticky, smoky crust—signature to any good barbecue rib sandwich. - Assemble the Sandwich
Toast your buns, layer on the shredded meat, and add a crunchy topping like slaw or red onions. This grilled take on the Knorr rib sandwich recipe delivers full-on BBQ flavor.
How the Knorr Sauerbraten Mix Elevates the Recipe
One standout feature of this Knorr rib sandwich recipe is the use of Knorr Sauerbraten mix. Unlike a standard dry rub, this mix brings layers of vinegar, warm spices, and richness to the meat—cutting through the fat and complementing BBQ sauce beautifully.
Using it in the marinade or as part of the glaze means you’re not just seasoning ribs—you’re telling a flavor story. The combination of tangy notes and caramelized sauce makes this bbq rib sandwich not just good—but unforgettable.
Building the Ultimate Rib Sandwich
Best Bread Choices: Buns, Hoagies, or Brioche?
You’ve slow-roasted or grilled your ribs to perfection, and the meat is dripping in flavor. Now it’s time to wrap it all in the right bread—and trust us, your choice of bun can make or break the entire knorr rib sandwich recipe experience.
Here are the best bread options for holding all that meaty goodness:
| Bread Type | Pros |
|---|---|
| Brioche Bun | Buttery, slightly sweet, and ultra-soft |
| Hoagie Roll | Ideal for long, stacked rib sandwiches |
| Potato Bun | Dense yet tender—holds juicy fillings well |
| Pretzel Bun | Adds a chewy texture and extra saltiness |
For most people recreating the knorr rib sandwich recipe at home, brioche or potato buns offer the best balance of softness and structural integrity. If you’re adding slaw or saucy ribs, go for a bun that won’t disintegrate under pressure.
Topping Ideas: Pickles, Slaw, Onions, Cheese & More
This is where you take the sandwich from good to “where-have-you-been-all-my-life?” The best toppings complement the rich, tangy profile of the knorr rib sandwich recipe and add crunch, freshness, or creamy contrast.
Here are classic and creative topping combos:
1. Classic BBQ Combo
- Dill pickle slices
- Thinly sliced red onions
- Classic creamy coleslaw
2. Southern-Inspired
- Spicy mustard slaw
- Fried jalapeños
- A touch of hot sauce
3. Comfort Fusion
- Melted cheddar or provolone cheese
- Caramelized onions
- Garlic aioli spread
4. Tangy Twister
- Sauerkraut (a nod to the sauerbraten flavor)
- Dijon mustard
- Shaved apple slaw
For those aiming to recreate a barbecue rib sandwich that’s loaded with complexity and personality, topping choices are your secret weapon.
Want to really wow your crowd? Stack those buns, drizzle with a touch more BBQ sauce, and finish with a sharp pickle spear on the side. Every bite of your knorr rib sandwich recipe will be bursting with texture, contrast, and crave-worthy flavor.
Tips for Making It a Meal – Sides & Drinks
Perfect Pairings: Fries, Baked Beans, Mac & Cheese
A mouthwatering knorr rib sandwich recipe deserves equally satisfying sides. Whether you’re going casual with crispy fries or going all out with rich, cheesy comfort food, your choice of side dishes should elevate—not compete with—the sandwich.
Here are crowd-pleasing pairings:
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Crispy Waffle Fries | Texture contrast and perfect for soaking up extra BBQ sauce |
| Baked Mac & Cheese | Creamy, cheesy goodness to balance the tangy ribs |
| Smoky Baked Beans | Deep molasses flavor that complements barbecue meats |
| Vinegar Slaw | Bright, acidic crunch cuts through the richness of the ribs |
| Cornbread Muffins | Slight sweetness that pairs beautifully with tangy meats |
Best Beverages to Serve with BBQ Rib Sandwiches
Let’s not overlook the drinks. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just making weeknight dinner more special, the right drink enhances the entire experience of your knorr rib sandwich recipe.
Here are some great pairings:
For Adults
- Craft Beer: A smoky porter or crisp IPA enhances the barbecue flavors.
- Bourbon Lemonade: Sweet, tart, and perfect for sipping with rich ribs.
- Red Zinfandel: A bold wine with peppery notes that mirror BBQ spices.
For All Ages
- Iced Sweet Tea: A Southern staple that pairs perfectly with tangy, saucy ribs.
- Sparkling Apple Cider: Adds a crisp contrast to every bite.
- Homemade Lemonade: Balances out the richness of the meat and bread.
Want to elevate your next backyard gathering? Serve your bbq rib sandwich with a tray of drinks garnished with fresh citrus or herbs. Presentation goes a long way—and the meal becomes an experience, not just dinner.
Variations & Regional Twists
The Smoked Rib Sandwich Recipe Variation
If you’ve got a smoker (or even a charcoal grill), it’s time to bring out the big guns. One of the most flavorful ways to transform the Knorr rib sandwich recipe is by infusing it with deep smoke. This version emphasizes old-school BBQ charm and elevates the rib flavor with a woodsy bite that lingers.
To make the smoked rib sandwich recipe variation:
- Use a Dry Rub with Knorr Sauerbraten Mix – The complex notes from the Knorr seasoning bring out a bold tang that balances beautifully with smoke.
- Smoke the Ribs Low and Slow – Use hickory or applewood chips and maintain a temperature around 225–250°F.
- Baste with Sauce in the Final Hour – Build that glossy, sticky bark that makes every rib irresistible.
The smoky rib flavor takes the Knorr rib sandwich recipe in a whole new direction—ideal for weekend cookouts or impressing BBQ purists.
Spicy, Sweet, or Tangy: Flavor Profiles by Region
Want to give your bbq rib sandwich a regional identity? Across the U.S., different areas put their own spin on barbecue. Each flavor profile can bring a new dimension to your Knorr rib sandwich recipe.
1. Kansas City Style
- Sweet molasses-based sauce
- Brown sugar rubs
- Thick and sticky texture
2. Carolina Style
- Vinegar and mustard-based sauces
- Sharp, tangy finish
- Best topped with coleslaw
3. Texas Style
- Simple salt-and-pepper rubs
- Sauce optional
- Great for smoked or grilled ribs
4. Memphis Style
- Dry rub focus with paprika, garlic, cayenne
- Sauce served on the side
- Bold flavor that works great in sandwiches
Adapting the Knorr rib sandwich recipe to fit one of these styles is as simple as adjusting the sauce or spice level. You can even create fusion flavors, blending sweet Kansas sauce with Carolina slaw or pairing Texas rubs with tangy vinegar glazes.
Storage, Leftovers, and Reheating Tips
How to Store Leftover BBQ Rib Sandwiches
Cooking up a full Knorr rib sandwich recipe usually means you’ll have leftovers—and that’s a good thing. The flavors deepen overnight, and if stored properly, they’re just as delicious the next day.
To store your rib meat:
- Refrigerator: Place shredded rib meat in an airtight container. Add a few spoonfuls of sauce to keep the meat moist. Store for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Pack the meat (cooled) into a zip-top freezer bag, flatten it for easy stacking, and freeze for up to 2 months.
Avoid storing the full sandwich assembled—buns get soggy fast. Always store meat, sauce, and toppings separately, and rebuild the sandwich when ready to serve.
Reheating Without Losing Flavor or Texture
The secret to reheating leftovers from your Knorr rib sandwich recipe is to preserve moisture and texture. Here’s how to do it like a pro:
Stovetop (Recommended)
- Place the meat in a pan with a splash of broth or BBQ sauce.
- Cover with a lid and warm over medium-low heat until heated through.
- This method revives texture and keeps the meat juicy.
Microwave (Quickest)
- Place meat in a microwave-safe bowl with a spoonful of sauce.
- Cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts.
- Stir between bursts to prevent dry spots.
Oven (Best for Crispy Bits)
- Spread meat on a foil-lined baking tray.
- Cover loosely with foil and heat at 325°F for 15 minutes.
- For a crispy finish, broil for 2–3 minutes after heating.
Rebuilding your Knorr rib sandwich recipe after reheating is easy: toast the bun, pile on your meat, and top it with fresh slaw or pickles. You’ve now turned leftovers into a second-day meal that tastes just as good—if not better.
FAQs
What is a rib sandwich?
A rib sandwich is a hearty, flavor-packed sandwich featuring tender, juicy pork ribs—typically slathered in barbecue sauce—served on a bun. The meat is often pulled or sliced off the bone and stacked high with toppings like pickles, onions, or slaw. In this knorr rib sandwich recipe, we elevate that classic concept with tangy sauerbraten seasoning and layers of deep, smoky flavor.
What do you put on a rib sandwich?
Toppings for a rib sandwich vary by region and taste. The most popular additions include: Pickles for crunch and acid, Coleslaw for creaminess and contrast, Onions (raw, grilled, or caramelized), Cheese, especially provolone or sharp cheddar and Hot sauce for spice lovers. When you build your own knorr rib sandwich recipe, don’t be afraid to get creative—your toppings can take it from good to unforgettable.
How many ribs are in a rib sandwich?
There’s no set number—it depends on whether you use bone-in or boneless ribs. For a typical bbq rib sandwich, you’ll want 6–8 ounces of cooked meat per sandwich. In this knorr rib sandwich recipe, we recommend using about 1.5 pounds of raw ribs for every two sandwiches to ensure generous portions after cooking and shredding.
What toppings are on Ribwich?
The Ribwich—famously inspired by limited-time fast food items—typically comes with: Barbecue-glazed rib meat, Dill pickle slices, Thinly sliced onions and A soft, sub-style roll. This knorr rib sandwich recipe builds on that idea by using Knorr seasoning to add tangy, saucy depth, and inviting you to elevate the toppings with fresh slaw, spicy mustard, or even sharp cheese.
Conclusion
From the first smoky bite to the last lick of BBQ sauce off your fingers, the knorr rib sandwich recipe is more than just a meal—it’s an experience built on bold flavor, family comfort, and creative customization. Whether you fire up the grill or bake it in the oven, this recipe offers a flavorful twist on a classic, all while staying true to what makes a rib sandwich crave-worthy: juicy meat, a rich tang, and all your favorite toppings stacked between buttery bread.
And with the versatility of Knorr Sauerbraten mix, you don’t just make a sandwich—you create a moment worth savoring.
So go ahead: try it for your next weekend BBQ, a weeknight dinner surprise, or the ultimate game-day feast. Trust me, this knorr rib sandwich recipe will earn a permanent spot in your kitchen playbook.
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