These easy oven-baked ribs are a real treat! They are tender, juicy, and fall-off-the-bone good. A simple rub gives them a tasty kick, making them hard to resist!
Whenever I make these, my family can’t wait to dig in! The best part? No grill needed, just pop them in the oven and relax until they’re ready. Perfect for lazy weekends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs work best for this recipe due to their tenderness. If they’re not available, spare ribs are a budget-friendly alternative that also adds great flavor.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the ribs. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider coconut sugar or maple syrup as substitutes.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a lovely smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika with a pinch of liquid smoke can work as a substitute for a similar taste.
Cayenne Pepper: It adds heat, but feel free to skip it if you prefer milder flavors. You could also use chili powder for a different spice profile.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite BBQ sauce for this recipe. If you’re looking for a healthier or low-sugar option, homemade versions are great. You can mix ketchup with vinegar and a bit of honey for a quick homemade sauce!
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Ribs for Better Tenderness?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is a crucial step in getting that tender bite. It may seem tricky at first, but just follow these simple steps:
- Use a sharp knife to gently slide under the membrane at one end of the rib rack.
- Once it lifts slightly, grab it with a paper towel for better grip.
- Pull it off steadily; if it tears, just start again from another spot. This process helps the meat become more tender when cooked.
Trust me, this step makes a big difference in the final texture of your ribs!
Easy Oven Baked Ribs That Fall Off The Bone
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 3-4 pounds)
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 2.5 to 3 hours to bake. After baking, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes before serving. So, you’ll need around 3 hours in total, but most of that time is hands-off while the ribs are baking!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat your Oven:
First, turn your oven to 275°F (135°C) so it can heat up. This low and slow cooking is key to making the ribs tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Look at the back of the ribs for a thin membrane. Use a knife to slide under it, then pull it off. This makes the ribs more tender when cooked!
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you want some heat). Stir well to combine!
4. Season the Ribs:
Take some paper towels to pat the ribs dry. Then, rub the spice mix all over the ribs, making sure to cover both sides well.
5. Set up for Baking:
Place the ribs meat-side up on a lined baking sheet. Cover them with another piece of foil to seal in the steam. This will help cook them evenly and keep them moist.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Put the ribs in the oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the meat is super tender and starts to pull back from the bones. So good!
7. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Once the ribs are ready, carefully take off the top foil. Now, brush a nice layer of barbecue sauce all over the ribs. Smother them with deliciousness!
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Turn up the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and put the ribs back in (without the foil) for about 15-20 minutes. This will caramelize the sauce, giving it that tasty finish.
9. Let Them Rest:
After baking, take the ribs out and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle back into the meat!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the ribs into individual pieces and serve them with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Get ready to enjoy those delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Now, gather your family or friends and dig in! Your oven-baked ribs are sure to impress everyone!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are the best for tenderness, you can also use spare ribs. Just note that spare ribs may take a bit longer to cook due to their thickness.
Can I Make These Ribs Spicy?
Yes! You can increase the cayenne pepper in the rub for more heat or add your favorite hot sauce to the barbecue sauce before glazing the ribs. Just adjust the spice level to your preference!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Place any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll keep for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered in foil to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze These Ribs?
Yes, you can freeze cooked ribs! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil or place them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven.
