These oven-baked ribs are just what you need for a tender, tasty meal! They cook low and slow until the meat falls right off the bone, making them super easy to enjoy.
Honestly, there’s nothing better than biting into juicy ribs while the sauce gets all over your fingers. And I love that you don’t need a grill—just pop them in the oven and relax!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are my favorite for their tenderness. If they’re not available, spare ribs are a good substitute, but they may require a bit more cooking time.
Spices: The mixture of paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, and onion powder gives a fantastic flavor. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can use regular sugar or honey, though it may slightly alter the taste.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite! I often use a tangy sauce for balance. If you’re looking for a lighter version, BBQ sauce can be replaced with a mixture of apple cider vinegar, mustard, and a touch of honey.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat. If you want it milder, you can skip it or substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika for a different kick.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane is an important step for tender, flavorful ribs. This tough layer on the back can keep the seasonings from soaking in. Here’s an easy way to do it:
- Flip the ribs so the bony side is up.
- Find a corner of the membrane and gently slide a butter knife under it or use a paper towel for grip.
- Pull it off slowly, keeping it taut for easy removal. Discard the membrane.
Removing this layer will make your ribs so much more enjoyable!
How Do I Wrap Ribs in Foil to Keep Them Moist?
Wrapping ribs in foil locks in moisture, which is key for cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the ribs bone side down on a large piece of aluminum foil.
- Make sure to leave enough foil on the sides to fold over.
- Wrap the ribs tightly, sealing the edges so no steam escapes during cooking.
This method results in juicy ribs that are easy to pull apart. Trust me, you want to follow this step for the perfect fall-off-the-bone texture!
Fall-off-the-Bone Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Spice Rub:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 2.5 to 3 hours for baking. You’ll spend a little extra time for grilling or broiling at the end, making it a delicious meal that’s worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven is warming up, take your ribs and remove the membrane from the back. This helps the flavors soak in and makes the ribs super tender.
2. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. This spice rub will give your ribs amazing flavor!
3. Season the Ribs:
Rub the olive oil all over both sides of the ribs. Then, coat the ribs with your spice mixture, spreading it evenly for full coverage. You want every bite to be packed with flavor!
4. Wrap the Ribs:
Lay the ribs bone-side down on a large piece of aluminum foil, then wrap them up tightly. This will help keep all the moisture in while they cook in the oven.
5. Bake Them Low and Slow:
Place the wrapped ribs in the preheated oven and let them bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. They should become tender and the meat should pull away from the bone easily.
6. Unwrap and Glaze:
Once the ribs are done baking, carefully unwrap the foil (watch out for the hot steam!). While you prepare your grill or broiler, brush the ribs generously with your favorite barbecue sauce.
7. Grill or Broil for Finish:
Put the ribs on your grill or under the broiler and cook for about 10-15 minutes more. This will caramelize the barbecue sauce nicely! Be sure to turn them halfway through for even cooking.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
After removing the ribs from the heat, let them rest for a few minutes. Then, slice between the bones, serve them warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy your fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! You can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs if you prefer. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so always check for tenderness to ensure they are fall-off-the-bone delicious.
What Can I Substitute for the Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can use a homemade mixture of ketchup, vinegar, sugar, and spices, or even a teriyaki glaze for a different flavor twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness and acidity to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
To store leftovers, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or on the grill for best results!
Can I Prepare the Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can rub the spice mixture on the ribs and let them marinate in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavors even more. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before baking for even cooking!
