These easy oven-baked ribs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor! With just a few spices and a bit of cooking time, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal everyone will love.
Trust me, there’s something special about pulling apart those tender ribs. I like to serve them with some coleslaw for crunch. Simple, delicious, and a big hit at any table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These are my favorite for their tenderness. If you can’t find baby back ribs, you can use spare ribs, which are larger and meatier but will require a longer cooking time.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness that balances the spices. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can replace it with coconut sugar or honey. Just adjust the amount, as honey is sweeter.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even cayenne pepper can be used, but adjust to taste for heat.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce for convenience, or make your own for a personalized touch. Some people love a tangy vinegar-based sauce for a twist!
How Do I Remove the Silver Skin from Ribs?
Removing the silver skin helps the ribs become more tender and allows seasonings to penetrate better. To do this:
- Carefully slide a butter knife under the silver skin at one end of the ribs to loosen it.
- Use a paper towel to grip the loose skin and pull it away from the meat.
Take your time with this step. If it tears, just start at another spot. It’s key for tender ribs!
How Can I Ensure the Ribs Are Tender?
Cooking ribs at a low temperature over a long time is the secret to tenderness. Here are a few tips:
- Keep the oven covered with foil to trap steam during cooking. This prevents the ribs from drying out.
- Check the ribs after 2.5 hours; they should be tender but still holding their shape.
- For that caramelized finish, a higher temperature at the end is a must!
Patience is key, but the results are so worth it!
Easy Tender Oven-Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 3-4 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for some heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes of prep time and 2.5 to 3 hours of cooking time. Don’t forget to account for a few minutes of resting time before serving. Total, you’re looking at around 3 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy tender, delicious ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature helps the ribs become nice and tender. While the oven heats up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. This makes cleanup a breeze!
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Next, take your baby back ribs and remove the silver skin from the back. This can be tricky, but just slide a knife under the membrane and pull it off with a paper towel—it’s easier that way! This step is important for allowing the flavors to soak into the meat.
3. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and chili powder (if using). This blend will give your ribs a delicious flavor. Mix it well!
4. Apply the Spice Rub:
Now, rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the ribs. Make sure the ribs are well coated for maximum flavor. You can gently press it into the meat a bit with your hands.
5. Bake the Ribs:
Place the ribs meat side up on your prepared baking sheet. Cover them tightly with aluminum foil—this keeps the moisture in. Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
6. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Take the ribs out of the oven and carefully remove the top layer of foil. Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the top of the ribs. You can add as much or as little as you like—it’s all about your taste!
7. Finish with High Heat:
Now it’s time to caramelize that sauce! Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and return the ribs to the oven without covering them. Bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce gets all sticky, bubbly, and slightly charred. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
8. Let Them Rest:
Once you take them out, give the ribs a few minutes to rest. This keeps them juicy when you cut into them. Then, slice between the bones to separate the ribs.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Your tender, flavorful oven-baked ribs are ready! Serve them hot with any extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite!
These ribs are perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or any occasion where you want to impress. Enjoy!
FAQ: Easy Tender Oven-Baked Ribs
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are ideal for tenderness, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just be aware that spare ribs may require a longer cooking time since they’re larger and meatier.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! You can substitute regular paprika or cayenne pepper for a bit of heat. Keep in mind that smoked paprika adds a distinct flavor, so adjust to your taste accordingly.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
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 the oven at a low temperature until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave, but they might not be as crispy.
Can I Make These Ribs on the Grill Instead?
Yes, you can! Follow the seasoning steps and cook the ribs on indirect heat on a preheated grill. Aim for a similar cooking time and finish them with the barbecue sauce until caramelized, just like in the oven method!
