These oven baked ribs are juicy and packed with flavor! With a sweet and sticky sauce that’s slathered on, every bite is a treat. You’ll be licking your fingers for sure!
Making ribs is easier than you think! I just coat them with seasoning, pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen. Trust me, your family will be coming back for more! 🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are tender and flavorful, perfect for baking. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs or country-style ribs can work too, but adjust cooking times since they may be thicker and require longer cooking.
Brown Sugar: This sweet addition helps with caramelization. You can substitute with coconut sugar or honey, but be aware that honey adds moisture, which might slightly change the texture.
Smoked Paprika: This spice gives a lovely smoky flavor without needing a grill. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika with a bit of cayenne for heat can work as a substitute.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite for the best flavor. For a healthier option, try sugar-free or homemade barbecue sauce. I love a tangy vinegar-based sauce for a zesty kick!
How Do I Remove the Membrane from the Ribs?
Removing the membrane is key for tender ribs. It prevents seasonings from penetrating and can be tough when cooked. Here’s a simple method:
- Start with the rib rack bone side up. Look for a thin, shiny layer; that’s the membrane.
- Slide a blunt knife under one edge of the membrane, careful not to cut into the meat.
- Once you have a good grip, use a paper towel to grab and pull the membrane off. It should peel away easily!
Taking off the membrane is worth the effort, as it helps in achieving juicy, flavorful ribs. Trust me, it makes a difference!
How to Make Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds total)
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Serving:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind, plus more for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 2.5 to 3 hours of cooking time in the oven. You’ll enjoy tender, flavorful ribs that are perfect for sharing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method helps make the ribs melt-in-your-mouth tender. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil to catch any drips and make cleanup a breeze!
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Next, let’s get the ribs ready! Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. To do this, slide a knife under the membrane and gently pull it off using a paper towel for a better grip. It’s worth the effort for perfectly tender ribs!
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like a bit of heat. This flavorful blend will be your dry rub!
4. Season the Ribs:
Generously rub the seasoning mixture over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to coat them well so every bite is packed with flavor!
5. Bake the Ribs:
Place the ribs on the prepared baking sheet, with the meat side facing up. Cover them tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, checking for tenderness. They’re done when the meat easily pulls away from the bone!
6. Add Barbecue Sauce and Finish Baking:
Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove them from the oven and take off the foil. Now, brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the ribs to give them that sweet, tangy glaze. Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and return the ribs to the oven uncovered for another 15-20 minutes. This will caramelize the sauce and make it stick!
7. Let the Ribs Rest:
After baking, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even tastier!
8. Slice and Serve:
Finally, slice the ribs between the bones, and serve them with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your mouthwatering oven-baked ribs with family and friends!
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Yes! Spare ribs can be used as a substitute, but they may require a bit more cooking time, approximately 3 to 3.5 hours. Just make sure they’re tender before finishing them off with the barbecue sauce.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika mixed with a hint of cayenne for some smokiness. Alternatively, try using cumin or chipotle powder, adjusting to your taste preferences for heat.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) for about 30 minutes or until warmed through. For a crispy finish, you can broil them for the last few minutes!
Can I Make a Dry Rub Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dry rub in advance and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 month. Just give it a good mix before using, as spices can settle over time.
