Perfectly Tender Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a plate of perfectly tender, juicy ribs with a smoky, caramelized crust. While many people think of ribs as a dish best left to the grill or smoker, you can achieve equally delicious results in your oven. This recipe for oven-baked ribs is perfect for those who want to enjoy the rich flavors of barbecue ribs without the hassle of outdoor cooking. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you’ll have fall-off-the-bone ribs that will impress everyone at your table.

Ingredients for Perfectly Tender Oven-Baked Ribs

To make these delicious oven-baked ribs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

How to Make Perfectly Tender Oven-Baked Ribs

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Preheat your oven: Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking temperature is key to tender ribs.
2. Remove the membrane: Lay the ribs bone-side up on a clean surface. Use a knife to gently loosen the thin membrane on the back of the ribs, then grab it with a paper towel and peel it off. Removing this membrane allows the seasoning to penetrate the meat better and results in more tender ribs.
3. Season the ribs: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Rub the olive oil over both sides of the ribs, then generously coat the ribs with the spice mixture, pressing it into the meat.

Step 2: Bake the Ribs

1. Wrap the ribs: Place each rack of ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil, bone-side down. Fold up the sides of the foil to create a packet, leaving a small gap at the top. Pour 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar into each packet. The vinegar will help tenderize the meat and add flavor. Seal the foil tightly around the ribs.
2. Bake the ribs: Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. The ribs are done when they are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bones.

Step 3: Add the Barbecue Sauce

1. Unwrap the ribs: Carefully remove the ribs from the oven and unwrap the foil. Be cautious of the hot steam that will escape. Discard the foil and any remaining liquid.
2. Brush with barbecue sauce: Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Brush the ribs generously with your favorite barbecue sauce on both sides.
3. Finish baking the ribs: Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized. For extra caramelization, you can turn on the broiler for the last 5 minutes, keeping a close eye on the ribs to prevent burning.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

1. Rest and slice: Let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before slicing them between the bones. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
2. Serve: Serve the ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side, along with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. Enjoy the tender, smoky, and sweet flavors of these perfectly cooked oven-baked ribs.

About the Main Ingredients

Pork Baby Back Ribs: Baby back ribs are taken from the top of the ribcage between the spine and the spare ribs. They are shorter, curved, and meaty with a rich flavor. Baby back ribs are preferred for their tenderness and are easier to handle, making them a popular choice for oven-baking.

Spices and Seasonings: The spice rub for these ribs is a blend of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. Brown sugar is key for adding sweetness and helps to create a caramelized crust. Smoked paprika brings a subtle smoky flavor, while garlic and onion powders add depth. Chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper add a touch of heat and complexity, enhancing the overall flavor of the ribs.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar is used to tenderize the ribs during baking. The acidity in the vinegar helps break down the tough fibers in the meat, resulting in ribs that are tender and juicy. It also adds a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness of the brown sugar and barbecue sauce.

Barbecue Sauce: The barbecue sauce is the final touch that adds a rich, smoky, and tangy flavor to the ribs. You can use store-bought sauce or make your own for a personalized touch. Brushing the sauce on the ribs during the last stage of baking allows it to caramelize, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze that coats the ribs.

Cooking ribs in the oven is a fantastic way to achieve tender, flavorful results without needing a grill or smoker. This recipe is simple to follow and delivers ribs that are just as delicious as those cooked outdoors. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a barbecue, these oven-baked ribs are sure to be a hit.