These easy oven-baked ribs are tender and full of flavor, perfect for any gathering! Just season them up and let the oven do the magic while you relax.
I love how simple this recipe is—no grill needed! I usually tear into these ribs while they’re still warm, and trust me, it’s hard to stop at just one! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork baby back ribs: These are my favorite for tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use pork spare ribs or beef ribs, but cooking times may vary as they can be tougher.
Yellow mustard: It’s great for helping the rub stick, but if you’re not a mustard fan, you can skip it. Just use a bit of olive oil to coat the ribs. It works just as well!
Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and helps caramelize the ribs. For a healthier option, try coconut sugar or even maple syrup, but you might need to adjust the amounts slightly.
Spices: The spice mix gives the ribs their flavor. Feel free to experiment! Smoked paprika can add a nice touch, and if you don’t want heat, just omit the cayenne pepper.
Barbecue sauce: I recommend using your favorite, but making your own is easy! Just mix ketchup, vinegar, and spices for a quick homemade version that can be adjusted to your taste.
What’s the Trick to Removing the Silver Skin?
Getting rid of the silver skin is crucial for tender ribs. This membrane can make the meat tough. Here’s how to do it:
- Slide a sharp knife between the membrane and the meat at one end of the rib rack.
- Carefully lift it up and grab it with a paper towel for a better grip—this helps you pull it off in one piece.
- Take your time; a clean removal will lead to more tender results!
How Can I Make Sure the Ribs Are Tender?
Low and slow is the name of the game! Baking at 275°F allows the connective tissues to break down gently. Here are some tips:
- Cover the ribs with foil during cooking to lock in moisture.
- Don’t rush the baking time! The longer they bake, the more tender they become.
- Check for tenderness by pulling with a fork; if the meat easily comes apart, they are ready!
Enjoy creating these delicious ribs that will impress family and friends!
Easy Oven Baked Ribs Recipe for Tender Meat
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks pork baby back ribs (about 2 to 2.5 pounds each)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard (for coating)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional)
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 3 hours to cook (including two steps of baking). You’ll have mouthwatering ribs ready with a little patience, perfect for a cozy family meal or a fun gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Ribs:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). While it heats up, remove the silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs. You can do this by sliding a sharp knife underneath it and gently pulling it off. This step is important as it helps the ribs become more tender.
2. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you’re using it). Stir until everything is well combined and set it aside for later.
3. Season the Ribs:
Pat the ribs dry using paper towels to remove any moisture. Brush a thin layer of yellow mustard over both sides of the ribs. Then, sprinkle the dry rub generously all over, rubbing it in to ensure that it sticks and flavors the meat beautifully.
4. Bake the Ribs:
Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper, with the bone side facing down. Cover the ribs tightly with another piece of foil to keep the moisture in. Bake them in the oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours, until they are tender and the meat starts to pull away from the bones.
5. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Once the ribs are tender, carefully take them out of the oven and raise the temperature to 425°F (220°C). Remove the top foil and brush your favorite barbecue sauce generously over both sides of the ribs.
6. Finish Baking:
Return the ribs to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This will allow the barbecue sauce to caramelize and become sticky, adding a delicious layer of flavor.
7. Serve:
After baking, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes to let the juices settle. Slice between the bones to separate the ribs and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy each tender bite!
With this easy oven-baked ribs recipe, you’ll have a delicious and hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone. Happy cooking!
FAQ About Easy Oven Baked Ribs
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are tender and flavorful, you can also use spare ribs or beef ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary as these cuts can be tougher, requiring a longer baking time for tenderness.
Can I Make the Dry Rub in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the dry rub ahead of time and store it in an airtight container. Just make sure to shake it well before using, as the spices may settle over time.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
To store leftovers, allow the ribs to cool down completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven or microwave, brushing with a little extra barbecue sauce for added moisture.
Can I Grill the Ribs After Baking?
Yes, you can! After baking, you can finish the ribs on a grill for extra smoky flavor. Just place them on a hot grill for a few minutes on each side, brushing with more barbecue sauce as you go for a caramelized finish.
