Oven baked ribs are a tasty treat that are super easy to make at home! The ribs cook low and slow, becoming so tender and full of flavor. You just slather on some barbecue sauce and let the magic happen.
Nothing beats the smell of ribs cooking in your kitchen! I like to make extra sauce for dipping—because who doesn’t love a little extra sticky goodness? Serve them up with some coleslaw, and you’re all set for a feast!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are lean and tender, while spare ribs have more meat and fat for flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using turkey ribs or even plant-based ribs made from jackfruit or seitan for a vegetarian version.
Brown Sugar: This ingredient adds sweetness and helps with caramelization. You can substitute it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist. If you need a sugar-free option, consider using coconut sugar or an artificial sweetener that measures similarly.
Spices: The spice mix is key for flavor. If you don’t have paprika, smoked paprika adds a delightful smokiness. For garlic and onion powder, fresh minced garlic and onion work too, just reduce the amounts since fresh is stronger. The cayenne pepper is optional, so adjust based on your heat preference.
Barbecue Sauce: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade can take the flavor up a notch. You can replace it with a mustard-based sauce or even a chimichurri for a tangy twist.
How Do You Remove the Silver Skin for Tender Ribs?
Removing the silver skin from the ribs is essential for getting tender and flavorful meat. This thin, tough membrane can hinder your spices from soaking in. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the ribs bone-side up and locate the silver skin. It’s a shiny, silvery layer.
- Use a sharp knife to carefully slide under the membrane at one end of the ribs.
- Once you lift it a bit, grab it with a paper towel for a better grip and slowly pull it away. It should come off in one piece.
This step is worth the effort for more tender and flavorful ribs!
How to Make Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2-3 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For the Spice Mix:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 3 hours total cooking time, which includes baking. First, you’ll prep the ribs and mix the spices, then let them bake low and slow for a tender finish. Finally, a quick caramelization in a hotter oven will give you that delightful glossy barbecue sauce effect!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help cook the ribs gently and keep them tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Take your pork ribs and look for the silver skin on the back. Use a sharp knife to gently remove this layer, as it can make the ribs tough. Removing it allows the flavors to soak in better.
3. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). Stir it well, so all the spices are mixed together.
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub this spice blend all over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly on both sides. This is where the magic happens—your ribs will be bursting with flavor!
5. Set Up for Baking:
Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, with the bone side facing down. Cover the ribs with another piece of foil to hold in moisture. This will keep them from drying out while they bake.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Put the ribs in the preheated oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours. The ribs should be tender and cooked through. The longer you cook them within this range, the more tender they will be!
7. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
After the baking time, carefully take the ribs out of the oven and uncover them. Brush your favorite barbecue sauce all over, making sure to cover them on both sides.
8. Increase the Heat for Caramelization:
Now, raise the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Put the ribs back in the oven uncovered for an extra 15-20 minutes. This will make the barbecue sauce caramelize and bubble, adding a delicious sticky glaze!
9. Let Them Rest:
Once done, remove the ribs from the oven and let them sit for a few minutes. This helps lock in the flavors and makes slicing easier.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Cut the ribs into portions and serve them up with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy this tasty meal with your favorite sides!
Can I Use a Different Type of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back or spare ribs are great choices, you can also use St. Louis-style ribs or even beef ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the thickness of the meat.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a tablespoon of molasses for a similar flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar works well too, though it has a slightly different taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes. For best results, brush with a little extra barbecue sauce before reheating!
Can I Make These Ribs in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! For a slow cooker option, rub the ribs with the spice mix and place them in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender. Then, broil them for a few minutes after brushing with barbecue sauce to get that caramelized finish.
