Print

Oven-Baked Barbecue Ribs

Oven-Baked Barbecue Ribs

These Oven-Baked Barbecue Ribs are juicy, fall-off-the-bone tender, and bursting with smoky, tangy barbecue flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this simple oven recipe requires no grill and delivers consistently tender ribs with a balanced dry rub and a glossy barbecue sauce finish.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 rack Baby Back Ribs (fresh or thawed)
  • 1/4 cup Brown Sugar
  • 1 tablespoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
  • 1 cup Barbecue Sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
  • Apple Cider Vinegar (optional, for spritzing)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Ribs: Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This ensures the ribs will be tender and allows the rub and sauce to penetrate deeply for better flavor.
  2. Make the Dry Rub: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create an aromatic and balanced seasoning.
  3. Apply the Rub: Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub, pressing it firmly into the meat to maximize absorption of flavors.
  4. Wrap and Bake: Place the ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil and seal tightly to lock in moisture. Bake in a preheated oven at 275°F (135°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and juicy.
  5. Brush with Barbecue Sauce and Broil: Carefully unwrap the ribs and brush a thick layer of barbecue sauce evenly over both sides. Broil under high heat for 3-5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and forms a sticky, flavorful crust.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes so the juices redistribute. Slice between the bones and serve hot with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Remove the membrane for tender ribs and better seasoning penetration.
  • Cook low and slow at 275°F for optimal tenderness.
  • Wrapping in foil traps steam and keeps ribs moist.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure ribs reach around 195°F internal temperature for perfect tenderness.
  • Allow ribs to rest after cooking to lock in juices.
  • Optionally spritz ribs with apple cider vinegar during baking to maintain moisture.
  • For gluten-free, use gluten-free barbecue sauce and verify seasoning ingredients.
  • Marinating overnight is optional but adds complexity.

Nutrition

Keywords: oven baked ribs, barbecue ribs, tender ribs, fall-off-the-bone ribs, no grill ribs, easy ribs recipe, gluten-free ribs