These easy baby back ribs are super tender and packed with BBQ flavor! Just season them well, pop them in the oven or on the grill, and let the magic happen. They’ll fall off the bone!
Honestly, who can resist perfectly sauced ribs? They’re a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. I love serving them with coleslaw on the side—so tasty together!
Making these ribs is a breeze. I often prep them early, so they’re ready to go when I have friends over. They always leave the table with happy smiles! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: The star of this dish! Baby back ribs are tender and meaty. If they’re hard to find, try spare ribs which are a bit larger and also delicious. Just keep in mind they may take longer to cook.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to the rub. You can swap it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor, just adjust the quantity, as they are more liquid. Keep in mind it will alter the texture a bit!
Spices: The combination in the dry rub makes the ribs flavorful! Feel free to play around—try smoked paprika instead of regular for a deeper smoky taste. You can use any combination of spices you enjoy.
Barbecue Sauce: You can pick your favorite sauce for a personal touch. Homemade BBQ sauce is great if you have the time. If you prefer a healthier option, look for sugar-free or low-sodium BBQ sauces.
How Do I Remove the Membrane for Tender Ribs?
Removing the membrane is crucial for tender ribs. It prevents seasonings from penetrating and can toughen the meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a paper towel to grip the membrane at one end of the ribs.
- Slide a knife underneath the membrane at the corner to loosen it.
- Once you have a good grip, pull it off slowly and steadily to avoid tearing.
This little step makes a big difference in the final outcome. Trust me, your teeth will thank you!
Easy Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs with Tender BBQ Flavor
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks baby back ribs (about 2–3 pounds total)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 2.5 to 3 hours for baking in the oven. A little bit of time well spent for tender and delicious ribs that your family and friends will love!
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 help make the ribs super tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Take the racks of ribs and carefully remove the thin membrane from the back. You can slide a knife under the membrane to get it started and then pull it off. This step is important for tenderness!
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if you like a little heat). This flavorful mix will give your ribs a nice taste.
4. Season the Ribs:
Use paper towels to pat the ribs dry. Then, rub the dry spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs, pressing it in gently so it sticks well.
5. Wrap for Baking:
Tighten each rack in aluminum foil to seal in moisture and flavor, and then place them on a baking sheet.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Pop the ribs in the oven and bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until they’re tender and the meat pulls away from the bone easily.
7. Prepare to Sauce:
Once the ribs are done baking, remove them from the oven, carefully open the foil, and drain any excess liquid. You want to get them ready for that tasty BBQ sauce!
8. Increase the Heat:
Now, turn up the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) to help get a nice caramelized finish on the sauce. If you prefer grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
9. Sauce it Up:
Generously brush your favorite barbecue sauce on both sides of the ribs. The more, the merrier!
10. Finish Cooking:
Put the ribs back in the oven (uncovered) or directly on the grill for about 10–15 minutes, basting with more sauce halfway through. You want the sauce to caramelize and get sticky and delicious!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes. Then slice between the bones, serve with any extra BBQ sauce on the side, and dig in!
Enjoy these fall-off-the-bone tender, sweet, and smoky BBQ ribs perfect for any meal or gathering! They’ll be a hit!
FAQ for Easy Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs
Can I Use Frozen Ribs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ribs! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before starting the recipe. It’s important to thaw them so they cook evenly and become tender.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs and wrap them in foil, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow them to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting them in the oven to bake.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can brush a little extra BBQ sauce on them to keep them juicy!
Can I Use a Different Type of BBQ Sauce?
Of course! Feel free to use your favorite BBQ sauce, whether it’s sweet, spicy, or smoky. You can also try a homemade sauce for a unique flavor—just make sure it’s thick enough to create a nice glaze.
