Bone Oven-Baked Ribs

These Oven-Baked Ribs are tender, juicy, and packed with smoky flavor—all without a grill! This easy recipe will give you fall-off-the-bone ribs that are perfect for any occasion. With a flavorful dry rub and a sticky BBQ sauce glaze, these ribs are an instant crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a special gathering, everyone will be coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Table of Contents

1. Ingredients for Oven-Baked Ribs
2. Instructions for Oven-Baked Ribs
3. Tips & Notes
4. Recipe Variations & Substitutions
5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Conclusion

Ingredients for Oven-Baked Ribs

• 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4-5 lbs total)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions for Oven-Baked Ribs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature will allow the ribs to cook slowly, becoming tender and juicy.

Step 2: Prepare the Ribs

• Remove the silver skin from the back of each rack of ribs. Slide a knife under the membrane and pull it away using a paper towel for a better grip.
• Rub both sides of the ribs with olive oil.

Step 3: Season the Ribs

• In a small bowl, combine the paprika, smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using).
• Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, coating both sides.

Step 4: Wrap and Bake

• Place each rack of ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil. Wrap the foil tightly around the ribs, sealing them completely.
• Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 3-4 hours, or until the ribs are tender and easily pull away from the bone.

Step 5: Glaze with BBQ Sauce

• In a small bowl, mix the BBQ sauce with the apple cider vinegar.
• Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully open the foil (watch out for hot steam!). Brush the ribs generously with the BBQ sauce mixture.

Step 6: Broil for Extra Flavor

• Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
• Place the ribs, uncovered, back onto the baking sheet and broil for 3-5 minutes, or until the BBQ sauce is caramelized and sticky.

Step 7: Serve

• Allow the ribs to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side and enjoy!

Tips & Notes

• Low and Slow: Cooking the ribs low and slow at 275°F is key to achieving tender, fall-off-the-bone meat.
• Silver Skin Removal: Removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs allows the seasoning to better penetrate the meat and makes the ribs more tender.
• BBQ Sauce Glaze: Broiling the ribs after adding the BBQ sauce creates a sticky, caramelized glaze that adds depth of flavor.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

• Sweet and Spicy Ribs: Add 2 tablespoons of honey to the BBQ sauce for a sweeter glaze, and increase the cayenne pepper for added heat.
• Dry Rub Only: Skip the BBQ sauce and simply use the dry rub for a more classic, smoky rib experience.
• Mustard Glaze: Brush the ribs with a mixture of yellow mustard and brown sugar for a tangy twist.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?

Yes, you can use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs. Just adjust the cooking time as spare ribs may take a bit longer—3.5 to 4.5 hours to become tender.

2. Can I make the ribs ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook the ribs ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, brush with BBQ sauce and broil until warmed through and caramelized.

3. How do I store and reheat leftover ribs?

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 300°F (150°C) oven until heated through.

These Oven-Baked Ribs are tender, flavorful, and guaranteed to be a hit at your next meal. The combination of a smoky dry rub and a sticky BBQ sauce glaze gives you the ultimate rib experience, all without needing a grill. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, these ribs are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy fall-off-the-bone deliciousness!

Happy cooking, and enjoy every smoky, saucy bite!