Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe

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Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare mouthwatering oven-baked ribs:

For the Ribs:

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4 pounds total)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Dry Rub:

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for heat)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce (optional but recommended):

  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (for added sweetness)
  • 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for a tangy kick)

  • 1. Prepping the Ribs

    • Remove the Membrane: Flip the ribs over to the bone side. Use a knife to loosen the thin, tough membrane and peel it off. This step ensures the ribs are tender and allows the seasoning to penetrate better.
    • Pat Dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture from the ribs.
    • Apply Olive Oil: Lightly coat the ribs with olive oil. This helps the dry rub stick and adds a touch of moisture.

    2. Seasoning with the Dry Rub

    • Combine all the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl. Mix thoroughly.
    • Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, covering both sides. Massage it in for maximum flavor.
    • For the best results, let the ribs marinate with the rub for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, refrigerate them for 2–4 hours or overnight for deeper flavor.

    3. Preparing the Oven

    • Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Low and slow is the key to tender ribs.
    • Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Place a wire rack on the sheet if you have one, as it allows air to circulate around the ribs.

    4. Cooking the Ribs

    • Place the ribs on the prepared baking sheet, bone-side down.
    • Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil. This traps steam, keeping the meat moist and tender.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 2 ½ to 3 hours, depending on the size and type of ribs. Check for doneness: the meat should pull away from the bones easily when tested with a fork.

    5. Adding the Sauce

    • Once the ribs are cooked, remove them from the oven and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C).
    • If using barbecue sauce, brush it generously over the ribs.
    • Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, for 10–15 minutes. This allows the sauce to caramelize, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.

    6. Rest and Serve

    • Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 5–10 minutes. This helps retain the juices.
    • Slice between the bones for individual ribs and serve immediately.

    Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Ribs

    1. Customize Your Rub and Sauce: Experiment with spices in the dry rub or try different barbecue sauces—smoky, tangy, or spicy.
    2. Foil is Your Friend: Wrapping the ribs tightly during baking is essential for tender meat.
    3. Don’t Skip the Broil: If you want extra caramelization, broil the ribs for 2–3 minutes instead of just baking at 400°F.
    4. Double the Batch: Ribs are even better the next day, so make extra and enjoy the leftovers!

    What to Serve with Oven-Baked Ribs

    Ribs pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some crowd-pleasers:

    • Coleslaw: The creamy crunch complements the rich, smoky ribs.
    • Cornbread: Sweet and buttery, it’s a classic pairing.
    • potato Salad: A hearty side that balances the meal.
    • Grilled Vegetables: Add some charred veggies for a healthier option.

    Storing and Reheating Leftovers

    • Storage: Place leftover ribs in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
    • Reheating: Warm them in a 300°F oven, covered with foil, for about 15 minutes. This helps maintain their tenderness.

    Why This Recipe Works

    This oven-baked ribs recipe combines simplicity with outstanding results. The low-and-slow baking method ensures the ribs are tender, while the dry rub and sauce add layers of flavor. Whether you’re new to cooking ribs or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a reliable way to satisfy your barbecue cravings, no matter the season.

    Ready to give it a try? Your oven is about to become your new favorite barbecue tool. Let me know how your ribs turn out in the comments below, and feel free to share your tips and twists on this recipe. Happy cooking!

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