This oven-baked ribs recipe delivers tender, juicy ribs that are full of flavor. Using a simple dry rub and a slow cooking method, you can achieve fall-off-the-bone perfection right in your kitchen.
The process is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks. You can customize the seasoning and sauce to match your taste preferences.
Creating the Perfect Oven-Baked Ribs
Oven-baked ribs are a delightful dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. The secret to achieving tender, juicy ribs lies in the preparation and cooking method.
Start by selecting high-quality pork ribs, such as baby back or spare ribs. These cuts are known for their rich flavor and tenderness. The process begins with removing the membrane from the back of the ribs, which allows for better seasoning absorption and a more enjoyable eating experience.
Flavorful Seasoning and Glaze
The magic truly happens with the dry rub. A combination of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and optional cayenne pepper creates a flavorful crust that enhances the natural taste of the meat.
Once the ribs are coated in olive oil, generously apply the dry rub, ensuring every inch is covered. This step is crucial for infusing the ribs with flavor as they bake.
Slow Cooking for Tenderness
Wrap the seasoned ribs tightly in aluminum foil, which helps to trap moisture and steam during the cooking process. Baking at a low temperature of 300°F (150°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours allows the meat to become incredibly tender and easily pull away from the bone.
After the initial cooking time, carefully unwrap the foil and brush your favorite barbecue sauce over the ribs. This adds a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully under the broiler.
Finishing Touches
Broiling the ribs for 5-10 minutes gives them a lovely caramelized exterior. This step is essential for achieving that rich, sticky glaze that makes barbecue ribs so irresistible.
Keep a close watch during broiling to prevent burning, as the sugars in the barbecue sauce can quickly turn from perfect to charred.
Serving Suggestions
Once the ribs are done, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
For a complete meal, serve the ribs alongside classic sides like coleslaw and cornbread. The crunchy texture of coleslaw complements the tender ribs, while cornbread adds a touch of sweetness.
Creating a Rustic Meal Setting
Presentation plays a significant role in the enjoyment of any meal. Arrange the ribs on a rustic wooden table, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This simple touch elevates the dish, making it visually appealing.
With the right preparation and attention to detail, a plate of oven-baked ribs can transform an ordinary meal into a memorable dining experience. Enjoy the process and savor the delicious results!
Tender Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe
These juicy ribs are seasoned with a flavorful dry rub and baked slowly in the oven, resulting in tender meat that easily pulls away from the bone. The recipe takes about 3 hours from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
- Season the Ribs: Rub the olive oil over the ribs, then generously apply the dry rub on both sides, pressing it into the meat.
- Wrap and Bake: Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender.
- Add Barbecue Sauce: Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully unwrap the foil. Brush your favorite barbecue sauce over the ribs.
- Broil for Finish: Place the ribs under the broiler for 5-10 minutes, until the sauce is caramelized and bubbly. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
- Serve: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g