These oven-baked ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor! You simply season them, pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen.
There’s nothing quite like the smell of ribs cooking in the oven. I sometimes sneak a piece before serving – can you blame me? 😂 They’re a hit at every gathering!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are leaner and tender, while spare ribs have more fat, which can add flavor. If you want a healthier option, you could also use turkey ribs, just adjust the cooking time since they may cook faster.
Olive Oil: Olive oil is great for coating the ribs, but you can substitute it with vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer. Both will work just fine!
Spices: The spice blend is key for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, or you can use a bit of liquid smoke for that smoky taste. You can also mix up the spices based on your preference, like adding cayenne for heat.
Barbecue Sauce: While I love a good store-bought sauce for convenience, making your own can be fun too! A mixture of ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and spices can do the trick. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or spice level to your liking.
How Do I Remove The Membrane From Ribs?
Removing the membrane from ribs is crucial—it helps the flavors soak in and keeps the ribs tender. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the ribs over so the bone side is up. You’ll see a thin, shiny layer on the bone side.
- Use a knife to gently lift one corner of the membrane, then grab it with a paper towel for a better grip.
- Pull it off slowly. If it tears, just keep going from where it releases until it’s completely off.
This might take a little practice, but it’s worth it for delicious, tender ribs!
How to Make Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Spice Rub:
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and around 3 hours of cooking time. You’ll spend a little time on preparation before letting your oven do the work. The ribs will be perfectly tender and flavorful by the end!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method will help to make your ribs nice and tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Take a look at the ribs and find the thin membrane on the back. Carefully peel this off for better flavor and tenderness. Once that’s done, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. This will be your delicious spice rub!
4. Rub the Ribs:
Drizzle olive oil over the ribs, then use your hands to rub it all over. Next, take the spice mixture and generously coat the ribs, making sure every part is covered with those tasty spices.
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil. This helps keep them juicy while they cook. Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Now, put the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Let the ribs bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. They should be nice and tender when they’re done.
7. Brush with Barbecue Sauce:
Once the cooking time is up, take the ribs out of the oven and carefully unwrap the foil—watch out for steam! Brush the ribs with barbecue sauce on both sides, giving them that lovely glaze.
8. Higher the Oven Temperature:
Next, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and place the ribs back in, uncovered. Bake for another 15-20 minutes until the sauce is caramelized and bubbly. This step adds flavor and a beautiful finish!
9. Let it Rest:
After baking, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite delicious.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the ribs into individual portions and serve them with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your tender, oven-baked ribs with family and friends!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back and spare ribs are popular choices, you can also use St. Louis style ribs or even beef ribs. Just adjust cooking times if the ribs are thicker or thinner to ensure they’re tender and fully cooked.
What Can I Use Instead of Barbecue Sauce?
If you’re out of barbecue sauce or looking for a healthier option, you can use a mixture of honey, apple cider vinegar, and mustard for a tangy glaze or a homemade sauce using tomatoes, vinegar, and spices. Just adjust to your taste preference!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave them for faster reheating, though the oven will help maintain the texture better.
Can I Prepare Ribs in Advance?
Yes, you can prep the ribs a day or two ahead! Just rub the spice mixture on the ribs, wrap them in foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping them in the oven to bake, ensuring even cooking.
