These Super Tender Dry Rub Baked Ribs are sure to be a hit! They’re packed with flavor thanks to the special dry rub that makes the meat juicy and delicious.
Who doesn’t love sinking their teeth into tender ribs? I sometimes get a little messy enjoying them, but that’s part of the fun, right? 😂 You won’t regret making these!
I love how easy it is to bake these ribs without a grill. Just spice them up, pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen—perfect for a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: The star of the dish! Baby back ribs are tender and cook nicely. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try leaner cuts like pork loin or turkey ribs instead.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance out the spices. If you want a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute like coconut sugar or stevia.
Paprika: Smoked paprika gives a lovely depth of flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika works too, or you could try a pinch of cumin for a different twist.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat. If you’re serving kids or someone sensitive to spice, leave it out or substitute with sweet paprika for flavor without the heat.
How Do I Properly Prepare Ribs Without Ruining Them?
Getting tender ribs starts with proper preparation. First, always remove the silver skin from the ribs; it can make them tough. Use a sharp knife to gently lift it, then pull it off with a paper towel for grip.
- After removing the silver skin, ensure the ribs are dry by patting them with paper towels.
- Apply the dry rub liberally and massage it into the meat. This helps the flavors seep in during cooking.
- Wrapping the ribs tightly in foil is key to keeping them moist; this creates a steamy environment while they bake.
Super Tender Dry Rub Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 2 to 2.5 pounds each)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika (smoked paprika if available)
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon dry mustard powder
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 2.5 to 3 hours of baking time. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create tender and flavorful ribs without any grilling equipment!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking method ensures that the ribs become extremely tender!
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs for extra tenderness. Use a sharp knife to gently lift and peel it off. This will help the rub penetrate the meat better.
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if you like some spice), and dry mustard powder. Mix it well to make a flavorful dry rub.
4. Season the Ribs:
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Generously apply the dry rub on both sides of the ribs, making sure to massage it in so it sticks well. Get every nook and cranny covered!
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Place the ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil, bone side down. Fold up the sides to create a sealed packet that traps moisture while baking.
6. Bake in the Oven:
Put the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours. They’ll become really tender—trust me!
7. Add Moisture and Flavor:
Once cooked, carefully remove the ribs from the oven and open the foil. Brush the ribs with a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water to enhance moisture and add a tangy flavor.
8. Crisp the Exterior (Optional):
If you want a nice crispy exterior, you can broil the ribs uncovered for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
9. Rest Before Serving:
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing them between the bones. This will help keep them juicy.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the ribs hot with your favorite sides and enjoy your delicious, super tender dry rub baked ribs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Absolutely! Spare ribs will also work well in this recipe but may require a slightly longer cooking time since they are thicker. Just ensure they’re well-trimmed for the best results.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option.
How Can I Adjust the Heat Level in the Recipe?
If you prefer milder ribs, simply omit the cayenne pepper from the dry rub or reduce the amount of chili powder. You can also add a bit of honey or a sweet BBQ sauce after cooking for a sweeter flavor.
Can I Make These Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare and season the ribs a day in advance. Just wrap them in foil, refrigerate, and bake them the next day, adjusting the cooking time if they’re coming straight from the fridge. Enjoy the convenience!
