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Tender Oven-Baked Ribs

These tender, sweet, and smoky oven-baked ribs are perfect for a comforting meal and budget-friendly gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ribs and Base Ingredients
  • 2 racks racks of baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Dry Rub
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika Use for depth of flavor
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder Fresh garlic gives bigger flavor
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Barbecue Sauce
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C).
  2. Prepare the ribs by sliding a knife under the membrane at one end, gripping it with a paper towel, and pulling it off. Pat both sides dry.
  3. In a small bowl, mix the dry rub ingredients. Rub 2 tablespoons of olive oil on the ribs, then press the rub onto both sides.
  4. Place the racks meat-side up on a large piece of foil. Wrap tightly and seal the edges well. Place the wrapped racks on a baking sheet.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 2.5–3 hours, or until the meat is tender and begins to pull away from the bones.
  2. Carefully unwrap the ribs and increase the oven to 450°F (230°C). Brush both sides generously with barbecue sauce.
  3. Return the racks to the oven, uncovered, and roast for 10–15 minutes until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes.
Serving
  1. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve with extra sauce on the side.

Notes

For a warming starter, try cream of potato soup alongside these ribs. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 2 months.