These oven-baked spare ribs are super tender and packed with flavor! A sweet and tangy sauce makes them a crowd-pleaser at any meal, and you won’t even need a grill.
Cooking ribs in the oven is a breeze! I love how I can just pop them in and let them cook while I finish up other things. Plus, the smell will have everyone at your house drooling! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Spare Ribs: These are the star of the dish! I love how tender they become when cooked low and slow in the oven. If you find baby back ribs on sale, feel free to use those instead—they just might cook a bit faster.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for bringing out the flavors! If you’re watching your sodium intake, try using a low-sodium seasoning blend instead. It still gives great flavor without all the salt.
Garlic Powder: This adds a wonderful aroma and enhances the taste. If you’re out of garlic powder, fresh minced garlic can work too! Just use about 3 cloves for a stronger kick.
Smoked Paprika: Optional, but highly recommended for a smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine or you can use a dash of liquid smoke, though go easy on it!
Barbecue Sauce: I often buy store-bought for convenience, but homemade is delightful too. Look for a sauce that you enjoy—whether it’s sweet, spicy, or tangy. If you want to go sugar-free, there are plenty of low-sugar options on the market.
How Do You Remove the Silver Skin from Ribs?
This tricky step is key to getting tender ribs! The silver skin can toughen the meat, so here’s how to do it easily:
- Use a sharp knife to slide under the membrane at one end of the rib rack.
- Once you have a bit lifted, use a paper towel to grab it and peel it off. The grip helps you pull it away more easily!
Take your time with this step, and don’t worry—it gets easier with practice! Removing this will ensure a much better texture for your ribs.
Easy Oven-Baked Spare Ribs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks pork spare ribs (about 4-5 pounds total)
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 2.5 to 3 hours to bake. You’ll be letting the magic happen in the oven while you relax or prep other dishes. It’s easy and perfect for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method will make the ribs nice and tender!
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Take a look at the ribs and remove the silver skin membrane from the back. Just slide a knife under it and peel it off carefully—it helps make the ribs super tender!
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Give it a good mix!
4. Rub the Spice Mixture:
Evenly rub this spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to cover every nook and cranny for maximum flavor!
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil, meaty side facing up, and wrap them tightly. This will help keep all the juicy goodness in.
6. Bake in the Oven:
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 be tender and meat pulling away from the bones.
7. Add the Sauce:
Once the ribs are ready, take them out and carefully open the foil. Brush a good amount of barbecue sauce on both sides.
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Turn up the oven to 400°F (200°C) and put the ribs back in, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes. This will caramelize the sauce and give you a sticky, finger-licking finish!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once they’re done, take them out and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Then slice between the bones and enjoy your delicious, tender, oven-baked spare ribs!
These ribs are guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal—enjoy every bite!
FAQ about Easy Oven-Baked Spare Ribs
Can I Use Baby Back Ribs Instead of Spare Ribs?
Absolutely! Baby back ribs will work just as well. They might cook a bit faster, so start checking for tenderness around the 2-hour mark to avoid overcooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
After the ribs have cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you can pop them back in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F to really bring back that juicy texture!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Barbecue Sauce?
Yes! If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can use a dry rub or marinate the ribs in your favorite sauce before cooking. Just remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste!
What Can I Serve with Spare Ribs?
Spare ribs pair great with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. For a lighter option, serve with a fresh salad or grilled vegetables. Whatever you choose, enjoy the feast!
