Oven baked beef ribs are tender and juicy, making them a real treat! They are slow-cooked with a yummy sauce that makes every bite full of flavor.
Honestly, the smell while they cook is enough to make anyone hungry. I like to serve mine with a side of coleslaw for crunch—it’s a combo that never disappoints!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Ribs: Choose a good cut of beef ribs for maximum flavor. If beef ribs are tough to find, pork ribs can be a tasty alternative, though they will have a different flavor and texture.
Olive Oil: This helps with browning the ribs. If you prefer, you can use vegetable oil or canola oil, which will work just as well.
Beef Broth: You can substitute homemade broth if you have it, or use chicken broth for a lighter flavor. For a vegetarian twist, vegetable broth does the trick, though it will alter the dish’s richness.
Barbecue Sauce: If you’re not a fan of store-bought sauces, a homemade version can really enhance the taste. You can also swap in a spicy sauce or even a teriyaki sauce for a different flair.
Spices: The mix of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne creates great depth. Feel free to adjust these to your taste, like using fresh garlic or onion for more flavor or omitting cayenne if you prefer milder ribs.
How Do You Properly Sear Beef Ribs?
Searing your beef ribs creates a beautiful crust that locks in flavors. It’s an important step that shouldn’t be skipped!
- Start with medium-high heat and let the olive oil heat up until it shimmers.
- Pat the ribs dry with paper towels; moisture can hinder browning.
- Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until they are nicely browned, but don’t overcrowd the skillet. Do it in batches if necessary.
This simple step makes a big difference in flavor, adding a nice caramelized touch to your beef ribs!
Oven Baked Beef Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 4 lbs beef ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 3 to 4 hours of baking time. So, get ready to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering smells while the ribs slowly cook to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This slow and low cooking temperature is perfect for tenderizing those beef ribs.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Using paper towels, pat the beef ribs dry. This helps them brown better. Now, season the ribs generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper if you like it a bit spicy. Make sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor!
3. Sear the Ribs:
In a large oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Carefully place the ribs in the skillet and sear them on all sides until they are nicely browned, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the ribs and set them aside.
4. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the beef broth, barbecue sauce, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together until well mixed and bring the mixture to a simmer. This will build layers of flavor!
5. Coat the Ribs:
Now, return the ribs to the skillet, making sure they are coated with the sauce. Cover the skillet tightly with aluminum foil or a lid to keep all that goodness inside.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake the ribs for 3 to 4 hours. The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone—so worth the wait!
7. Caramelize for Extra Flavor:
If you’d like your ribs to have a nice caramelized finish, remove the foil in the last 30 minutes of cooking. Baste the ribs with the rich sauce to enhance their flavor and color.
8. Let Them Rest:
Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices settle in. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy your tender and flavorful beef ribs!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use short ribs or back ribs if that’s what you have on hand. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness to avoid overcooking.
What Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ketchup with vinegar, brown sugar, and some spices like mustard and hot sauce. Alternatively, a homemade glaze with honey and soy sauce can add great flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to avoid sticking together, and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Can I Cook These Ribs on the Grill Instead?
Yes! If you prefer grilling, first sear the ribs on a hot grill for about 2-3 minutes each side, then move them to a cooler part of the grill. Brush with the sauce and cover, cooking them on low heat for about 2-3 hours, basting frequently!
