These fall-off-the-bone ribs are the ultimate comfort food! They’re juicy, tender, and slathered in a delicious BBQ sauce that everyone loves.
Honestly, who can resist ribs that practically melt in your mouth? I usually serve them with some coleslaw and corn on the side—perfect for a cozy dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These are my favorite for tenderness and flavor. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs work just as well.
Brown Sugar: This adds a nice sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, coconut sugar is a great substitute.
Paprika: It brings rich color and mild flavor. Smoked paprika can add a wonderful smokiness if that’s what you prefer.
Apple Juice or Cider: Both help keep the ribs moist. If you want to skip the sweetness, try using chicken broth instead.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or make your own! I find homemade sauce offers the best flavor and adjustability.
How Do I Remove the Membrane for Tender Ribs?
Removing the thin membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial for tenderness. This step allows flavors to penetrate the meat better.
- Use a paper towel to grip the membrane; it helps in getting a good hold.
- Start at one end and gently pull it away from the rib. It should come off in one piece, but don’t worry if it tears—it’s okay!
- If you struggle, use a butter knife to lift the edge before pulling.
Take your time with this step; it truly makes a difference in how tender your ribs will be! Enjoy cooking!
How to Make Fall Off The Bone Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 2 to 3 pounds each)
For the Spice Rub:
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For Flavor and Sauce:
- 1 cup apple juice or apple cider
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 3 to 3.5 hours total—2.5 to 3 hours for baking and an additional 15-20 minutes to finish in the oven with BBQ sauce. It’s mostly hands-off cooking, so you can relax while the ribs do their thing in the oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking method helps the ribs become super tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Carefully remove the thin membrane from the back of each rack of ribs. This helps ensure your ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender. You can use a paper towel for a better grip while pulling it off.
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, black pepper, salt, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper if you like heat. Mix it well!
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub the spice mixture generously all over both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Take a large piece of aluminum foil for each rack and place the ribs on it. Fold the foil tightly around the ribs, creating a sealed packet. This helps keep in all those delicious juices!
6. Bake the Ribs:
Arrange the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the meat is very tender and pulling away from the bones.
7. Unwrap and Prepare for Final Bake:
Carefully take the ribs out of the oven and open the foil packets. You can discard the juices or save them for another use—they’re tasty!
8. Increase the Oven Temperature:
Now, bump up the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) for a nice caramelized finish.
9. Add BBQ Sauce:
Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over both sides of the ribs, making sure they are well-coated.
10. Finish Baking:
Put the ribs back in the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10-15 minutes. You want the BBQ sauce to get sticky and caramelized.
11. Rest and Slice:
Once done, let the ribs rest for a few minutes. This makes them easier to slice—cut between the bones to serve.
12. Garnish & Serve:
If you’d like, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or thyme on top for a pop of color. Serve the ribs hot with your favorite sides, like coleslaw or corn on the cob.
Enjoy your juicy, tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs! They’re sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Can I Use Other Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are a favorite for tenderness, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just be mindful of slightly adjusting the cooking time, as they may take a bit longer to become tender.
How Can I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap the ribs tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
What If I Don’t Have Apple Juice or Cider?
No worries! You can substitute apple juice or cider with chicken broth or even water. The goal is to keep the ribs moist while cooking, and both alternatives will work perfectly.
Can I Cook Ribs on the Grill Instead?
Yes! If you prefer grilling, you can follow the same preparation steps and then cook them on low heat on the grill. Use indirect heat to avoid burning, and add your BBQ sauce during the last few minutes for a caramelized finish.
