Get ready for some melt-in-your-mouth goodness with these oven-baked beef back ribs! They’re tender, juicy, and just waiting to be coated in your favorite barbecue sauce.
Cooking them low and slow in the oven means they soak up all those delicious flavors. I like to serve them with coleslaw for a perfect backyard vibe, even if I’m just in my kitchen! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Back Ribs: These are the star of the show! Look for ribs with good marbling, as they will be more flavorful. If beef isn’t your thing, pork back ribs are a great substitute. They need a little less cooking time, so keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil: This helps the spices stick and keeps the ribs moist during cooking. If you’re looking for an alternative, avocado oil or any neutral oil can work well too. Some like to use melted butter for added flavor!
Spices: The garlic powder and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you want to lighten it up, you can skip the chili powder or reduce the amount for less heat. I sometimes add a pinch of cayenne for an extra kick!
Barbecue Sauce: A good sauce really completes the ribs. You can use store-bought, or make your own! A mix of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and spices makes a quick homemade version that I love.
How Do You Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
The membrane can toughen your ribs, so it’s important to remove it. Here’s how:
- Start at one end of the rack and feel for the thin transparent layer on the back.
- Use a butter knife to gently lift the edge of the membrane away from the meat.
- Once you have a grip, use a paper towel for a better hold and pull it off in one go.
If it tears, don’t worry! Just get as much off as you can. This little step makes a big difference in tenderness.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Ribs?
Low and slow is the magic formula here. Cooking the ribs at 275°F (135°C) for several hours lets the connective tissue break down thoroughly:
- Wrap the ribs tightly in foil to hold in steam and moisture, which is key for tenderness.
- Patience is key! Don’t rush the cooking process; good ribs need their time to shine.
- If you want a crispy exterior, finish them off uncovered at a higher temperature to caramelize the sauce.
Trust me, your patience will be rewarded with delicious, tender ribs that literally fall off the bone!
Tender Oven-Baked Beef Back Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef back ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful beef back ribs recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 3 to 3.5 hours of baking time. Then, you’ll want to let them rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. So, you can easily enjoy this mouthwatering dish with a total time investment of around 3 hours and 20 minutes, including resting!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature will help cook the ribs slowly, keeping them juicy and tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Pat the beef back ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick better. If you see a thin membrane on the back of the ribs, gently remove it for extra tenderness.
3. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and optional chili powder. This blend will give the ribs a delicious flavor.
4. Season the Ribs:
Drizzle the olive oil all over the ribs and rub it in evenly. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture over both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re thoroughly coated and flavorful.
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Take a large piece of aluminum foil and wrap the ribs tightly, creating a sealed packet. This will trap the moisture and help the ribs cook evenly.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and pop them into the oven. Let them cook for 3 to 3.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
7. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Once the ribs are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven and take off the top layer of foil. Brush your favorite barbecue sauce generously over the ribs for a tasty finish.
8. Caramelize (Optional):
If you want a nice caramelized glaze, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes. This step adds a lovely texture to the sauce!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Then, slice between the bones, serve them up, and enjoy your delicious, tender oven-baked beef back ribs!
Happy cooking! 🥢🍖
FAQ About Tender Oven-Baked Beef Back Ribs
Can I Use Different Cuts of Ribs?
Absolutely! While this recipe is for beef back ribs, you can also use beef short ribs or pork ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check them for tenderness as they cook!
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) covered in foil to keep them moist, or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal.
Can I Make the Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ribs and apply the spice rub ahead of time! Just wrap them tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer less heat, simply reduce the amount of chili powder or leave it out entirely. For extra spice, consider adding cayenne pepper or using a spicy barbecue sauce for a kick!
