These easy oven-baked ribs are the ultimate comfort food! Tender, juicy, and full of flavor, they’re coated in a sweet and tangy sauce that makes them irresistible.
Honestly, it feels like a party in your mouth! I love how simple they are to prepare—no grill needed. Just pop them in the oven and enjoy the delicious smells filling your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These are great for their tenderness. If you’re looking for options, spare ribs can work too; they have more meat, but may take slightly longer to cook.
Brown Sugar: It adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. If you’re out, try using honey or maple syrup as a substitute, just adjust the quantity based on sweetness.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is fine, though it won’t add the same smoky taste. You can also try chipotle powder if you like it spicy!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose a sauce you love! If you’re going homemade, mix ketchup, vinegar, and spices. For a lighter version, try a vinaigrette for marinating instead.
How Do You Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the ribs is crucial for tenderness and flavor absorption. Here’s how:
- Flip the ribs so the bone side is up. Use a paper towel to grip the membrane at one end since it’s slippery.
- Carefully pull it away from the bones. You can use a knife to loosen it if needed.
- Try to remove it in one piece; it should come off relatively easily. If it tears, just get as much as you can.
This little step can make a big difference in your ribs’ texture!
Easy Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 4 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 2.5 to 3 hours of baking time. You’ll be rewarded with perfectly tender ribs that are baked to perfection and are sure to impress family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow method ensures super tender ribs.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Flip the ribs over and look for the thin membrane on the back. This membrane can toughen the ribs, so use a knife to gently loosen one edge, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off. This will help your ribs be much more tender!
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you like a kick!). This blend will give your ribs an amazing flavor!
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub the spice mix generously over both sides of the ribs, making sure to cover them evenly.
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Place the ribs, meat side up, on a large piece of aluminum foil. Wrap the foil tightly around the ribs to create a sealed packet.
6. Bake:
Put the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. You want them to become tender and for the meat to pull back from the bones.
7. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Once they are done, carefully take the ribs out of the oven. Remove the top layer of foil and brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce. Yum!
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and put the ribs back in the oven, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes. This step helps the sauce caramelize and adds a nice glaze.
9. Let Them Rest:
When the ribs are caramelized, take them out and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle back in.
10. Slice and Serve:
Slice between the bones to separate the ribs. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for a tasty dip. Enjoy your sticky, flavorful ribs!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Type of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are great for tenderness, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that spare ribs may require a slightly longer cooking time due to their thickness.
How Do I Tell When the Ribs Are Done Cooking?
You’ll know the ribs are done when the meat has pulled back from the bones and is tender enough to lift off easily. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 190°F (88°C) to ensure they’re tender and juicy.
Can I Make These Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the ribs and apply the spice rub a day ahead. Simply wrap them tightly in foil and refrigerate. Then, bake them the next day as instructed. They can also be cooked and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days before reheating.
How to Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave them on low power until warmed.
