These easy oven-baked ribs are so tender and full of flavor, you’ll be licking your fingers! The secret is in the slow bake that makes the meat fall off the bone.
I love how minimal cleanup is required—just a baking tray and some foil. Plus, they make a great dish for gatherings, and everyone loves a good rib! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These are the star of the dish! They’re tender and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, consider using pork loin back ribs, though they can be a bit less tender.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust. If you’re out, you can swap it with white sugar or even honey for a different taste. Just keep in mind, honey might cause faster browning.
Paprika: I love using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, but regular paprika works too. If you’re in a pinch, you can leave it out or use chili powder instead, which might add more heat.
Barbecue Sauce: This can make or break your ribs. I often use homemade sauce to control the sweetness and tang. If you prefer a store-bought brand, go for one that you know you love!
How Can You Remove the Silver Skin for Tender Ribs?
Removing the silver skin is an important step for tender ribs. This tough membrane can hold moisture in and make the ribs chewy. Here’s how to get it off:
- Slide a knife under the silver skin at one end of the rib rack.
- Carefully lift the skin, and using your fingers, grab and pull it away. A paper towel can help grip it better!
- Try to pull it off in one piece for easier removal.
Once the silver skin is gone, you’ll notice a significant difference in tenderness. Enjoy your cooking! 🍖
Easy Tender Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 racks pork baby back ribs (about 4 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon chili 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)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tenderness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 2.5 to 3 hours for cooking. So, you’ll have about 3 hours and 15 minutes until you get to enjoy those delicious, tender ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow baking method is key to tender ribs. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Ribs
Take the ribs and remove the silver skin membrane from the back. Use a knife to slide under the skin and gently pull it off. This step will help ensure your ribs turn out nice and tender!
3. Make the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want a little extra heat.
4. Season the Ribs
Pat the ribs dry with some paper towels. Now, rub the dry seasoning mixture all over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to cover them evenly for great flavor!
5. Prepare for Baking
Place the ribs bone side down on your prepared baking sheet. If you want extra tenderness, you can brush or sprinkle the ribs lightly with apple cider vinegar.
6. Cover and Bake
Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil to keep all that moisture in while they bake. Pop them in the oven and let them cook for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the meat is tender and pulling away from the bone.
7. Apply Barbecue Sauce
Once the ribs are done, carefully take them out of the oven and remove the foil. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce all over the ribs to make them extra tasty!
8. Broil for Finish
Now boost the oven temperature to broil. Place the ribs back in the oven uncovered for about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to make sure the sauce caramelizes but doesn’t burn!
9. Rest and Serve
Let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes after taking them out. Then, slice between the bones and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful oven-baked ribs with minimal fuss and maximum taste! Bon appétit! 🍖
FAQ for Easy Tender Oven-Baked Ribs Recipe
Can I Use Spare Ribs Instead of Baby Back Ribs?
Absolutely! Spare ribs will work just fine. They tend to be a bit meatier and have a different texture, but just follow the same cooking instructions. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the ribs.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat them, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or use the microwave.
Can I Make These Ribs Spicier?
Yes! If you want more heat, simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the dry rub. You could also brush the ribs with a spicy barbecue sauce or add hot sauce to the mix before serving.
How Can I Tell When the Ribs Are Done?
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bone. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be around 190-203°F (88-95°C) for optimal tenderness.
