Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs Recipe

Enjoy tender and flavorful baby back ribs with this simple oven-baked recipe. Seasoned with a homemade dry rub and glazed with your favorite barbecue sauce, these ribs are perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Minimal hands-on time with straightforward steps.
• Year-Round Enjoyment: No grill required; perfect for any season.
• Customizable Flavor: Use your preferred dry rub and barbecue sauce to tailor the taste.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ancho chile powder
• White sugar
• Brown sugar
• Salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Ground cumin
• Dry mustard
• Ground cayenne pepper
• Ground dried chipotle pepper
• Baby back pork ribs
• Barbecue sauce

Directions

1. Prepare the Dry Rub: In a bowl, combine ancho chile powder, white sugar, brown sugar, salt, black pepper, cumin, dry mustard, cayenne, and chipotle pepper.
2. Season the Ribs: Place the rib rack on an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet. Prick the back of the rack several times with a knife. Generously apply the dry rub to all sides of the rack.
3. Bake: With the meat facing down, fold the foil around the rack to create a tight seal. Bake in a preheated oven at 250°F (120°C) until tender and cooked through, about 2 hours.
4. Glaze: Remove the ribs from the oven and let them cool slightly. Open the foil seal and brush the meat side with barbecue sauce. Return to the oven, leaving the foil open, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Repeat this glazing process 4 more times, for a total of 50 minutes of baking time.
5. Serve: Cut the rack into individual rib segments and serve with additional barbecue sauce if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total Time: Approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 2 hours and 50 minutes
  • Additional Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne and chipotle pepper to control the heat.
• Sauce Options: Experiment with different barbecue sauces, such as honey-based or spicy varieties, to change the flavor profile.
• Smoking: Add a smoky flavor by incorporating a small amount of liquid smoke into the barbecue sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through. To retain moisture, cover the ribs with foil during reheating.

FAQs

How do I remove the membrane from baby back ribs?

To remove the membrane, slide a knife under the thin membrane on the bone side of the ribs to loosen it. Then, grab the edge with a paper towel and peel it off.

Can I prepare the ribs ahead of time?

Yes, you can season the ribs with the dry rub and refrigerate them overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply.

What sides pair well with baby back ribs?

Classic sides include coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, and potato salad.

Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?

Yes, but spare ribs are larger and may require a longer cooking time.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs are done when the meat is tender and has pulled back from the bones, and an internal temperature of 190–200°F (88–93°C) is reached.

Can I cook these ribs on a grill?

This recipe is designed for oven baking, but you can finish the ribs on a grill for added smoky flavor after baking.

Is it necessary to wrap the ribs in foil?

Wrapping in foil helps retain moisture and ensures tender ribs. It’s recommended for this recipe.

Can I freeze cooked ribs?

Yes, wrap the cooked ribs tightly in foil and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

What type of barbecue sauce works best?

Use your favorite barbecue sauce. Whether it’s sweet, tangy, or spicy, choose one that suits your taste.

How can I make the ribs more tender?

Cooking the ribs low and slow, as in this recipe, ensures tenderness. Removing the membrane also helps.

Conclusion

This oven-baked baby back ribs recipe offers a straightforward method to achieve tender, flavorful ribs without the need for a grill. With customizable seasoning and sauce options, it’s a versatile dish that’s sure to become a favorite. Enjoy experimenting with different flavors and sides to make it your own.

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