Ribs
These ribs are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings, barbecues, or a cozy family dinner. Slow-cooked in the oven, they are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor from the spice rub and sweet barbecue sauce. This recipe highlights the versatile nature of ribs, making them suitable for many occasions while ensuring they remain a standout dish at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This recipe simplifies cooking ribs by using your oven, eliminating the need for grilling or smoking.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of spices and barbecue sauce creates a deliciously sweet and smoky flavor that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Tender Texture: Slow cooking ensures that the meat becomes incredibly tender and falls off the bone easily.
- Great for Sharing: With up to 14 servings, this recipe is perfect for gatherings or meal prep for the week.
- Customizable: You can adjust the spice level or barbecue sauce to suit your personal preferences.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this delicious ribs recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Small knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet: Provides a stable surface for baking and catching any drips from the ribs.
- Heavy-duty aluminum foil: Keeps moisture in while cooking, ensuring tender meat.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining spices without making a mess.
- Whisk: Helps mix dry ingredients evenly.
Ingredients
These tender ribs are slow-cooked in the oven after being seasoned with a flavorful spice rub followed by a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce to finish them off.
For the Ribs
- 2½ to 3 pounds of baby back ribs
For the Spice Rub
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Sauce Topping
- ½ cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand)
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
How to Make Ribs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300°F. This low temperature will help cook the ribs slowly, retaining moisture.
Step 2: Prepare the Spice Rub
In a mixing bowl, combine:
1. ⅓ cup light brown sugar
2. 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
3. 2 tablespoons onion powder
4. 1 tablespoon kosher salt
5. 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
6. 2½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
7. 2 teaspoons ground mustard
8. 1 teaspoon cumin
9. ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
10. ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Whisk until well combined.
Step 3: Remove the Membrane
Carefully remove the opaque membrane from the underside of the ribs:
1. Use a small knife to lift one corner edge of the membrane.
2. Slide the knife‘s edge underneath while lifting it up.
3. Once started, use your fingers to pull away the membrane completely.
Step 4: Wrap in Foil
Tear a long piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil large enough to cover your rack of ribs:
1. Lay it over a baking sheet.
2. Place the rack of ribs meaty side down (bone side up) in the middle of the foil.
Step 5: Apply Dry Rub
Generously apply one-third of your spice rub over the bones:
1. Rub it into all exposed areas.
2. Flip the ribs over and coat with remaining dry rub on top.
Step 6: Seal and Bake
Crimp together seams of foil and roll up ends tightly to seal:
1. Bake in preheated oven for about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Step 7: Broil with Sauce
After baking:
1. Remove ribs from oven and increase temperature to broil.
2. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together:
– ½ cup barbecue sauce
– 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
Carefully open foil packaging:
– Spoon and spread sauce evenly over top of ribs.
Step 8: Final Broil
Return ribs to broiler:
– Broil sauced ribs for an additional 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
Step 9: Rest Before Serving
Remove from oven; allow ribs to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing into individual pieces.
Enjoy these deliciously tender ribs as they become an instant favorite at every gathering!
How to Serve Ribs
Serving ribs can be a delightful experience. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, the presentation and accompaniments can elevate your meal. Here are some great serving suggestions for your delicious ribs.
With Classic Coleslaw
- A refreshing side that balances the richness of the ribs with its crisp texture and tangy flavor.
On a Grilled Bun
- Serve the ribs on a toasted bun, drizzled with extra barbecue sauce for a flavorful sandwich option.
Paired with Cornbread
- A sweet and savory combination, cornbread complements the smoky flavors of the ribs beautifully.
Accompanied by Pickles
- Add some tangy dill pickles on the side to cut through the richness of the meat and add an extra crunch.
Served with Grilled Vegetables
- Colorful grilled veggies provide a nutritious and visually appealing contrast to the ribs.
With Baked Beans
- Sweet and hearty baked beans pair perfectly with pork ribs, enhancing their savory flavor profile.
How to Perfect Ribs
To ensure your ribs turn out mouthwatering every time, follow these essential tips. They will help you achieve tender, juicy, and flavorful results.
- Choose quality meat: Look for fresh baby back ribs with good marbling for extra flavor and tenderness.
- Remove the membrane: Take off the thin layer on the bone side of the ribs for better seasoning absorption and tenderness.
- Let them rest: After cooking, allow your ribs to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing to keep them juicy.
- Baste generously: Apply barbecue sauce during broiling for an extra layer of flavor and shine.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to modify the dry rub ingredients to suit your taste preferences or try different flavors.
- Monitor cooking time: Ensure you don’t rush the cooking process; low and slow is key for tender ribs.
Best Side Dishes for Ribs
Ribs are delicious on their own but pairing them with sides can enhance your meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to complement your tender ribs.
- Macaroni and Cheese: This creamy, cheesy dish adds comfort alongside smoky flavors.
- Potato Salad: A classic cold dish that offers a refreshing contrast to warm, barbecued meats.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter brings out summertime flavors.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries offer a sweet counterpart that pairs nicely with savory ribs.
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread can soak up any remaining barbecue sauce while providing great texture.
- Caesar Salad: A crisp salad with creamy dressing is perfect for balancing rich dishes like ribs.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These add a healthy element while delivering fantastic flavor when roasted.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: Crispy fried green tomatoes offer a southern twist that pairs well with barbecue dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking ribs can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes can make a significant difference in your final dish.
- Overcooking the Ribs: Cooking ribs for too long can dry them out. Stick to the recommended cooking time and check for tenderness.
- Neglecting to Remove the Membrane: The membrane on the underside of the ribs can prevent flavors from penetrating. Always remove it before seasoning.
- Using Too Much Sauce Too Early: Adding barbecue sauce too soon can lead to burning. Reserve the sauce for the last few minutes of cooking.
- Skipping the Dry Rub: A good dry rub is essential for flavor. Don’t skip this step; it builds a delicious crust on the ribs.
- Not Letting Them Rest: Rushing to cut into your ribs can result in dry meat. Allow them to rest after cooking for juicier results.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover ribs in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Ribs
- Wrap ribs tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Frozen ribs are best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.
Reheating Ribs
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F and heat wrapped ribs for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place ribs on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist while reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Slow Cook Ribs In The Oven?
Slow-cooking ribs in the oven is simple! Just season your ribs, wrap them in foil, and bake at 300°F for about 2.5 hours until they are tender.
What Is The Best Way To Cook Ribs In The Oven?
The best way involves low and slow cooking at around 300°F, followed by broiling with barbecue sauce for caramelization.
Can I Use Baby Back Ribs Instead Of Spare Ribs?
Yes! Baby back ribs are smaller and leaner than spare ribs but work perfectly with this recipe.
How Long Do I Need To Cook Ribs In The Oven?
For tender, juicy ribs, cook them at 300°F for about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
What Sauce Goes Well With Ribs?
A sweet and smoky barbecue sauce pairs wonderfully with ribs, enhancing their flavor profile beautifully.
Final Thoughts
These tender ribs are not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize the spice rub or sauce according to your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Tender Oven-Cooked Ribs
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves up to 14 people
Description
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this mouthwatering ribs recipe that guarantees tenderness and flavor. Perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, or cozy dinners, these oven-cooked baby back ribs are slathered in a sweet and smoky barbecue sauce that elevates their rich taste. With just a handful of ingredients and simple preparation steps, you can create a feast that will impress everyone at your table. Experience the joy of sharing these deliciously tender ribs with loved ones, making every occasion memorable.
Ingredients
- 2½ to 3 pounds baby back ribs
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
- 2 teaspoons ground mustard
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F.
- Mix spices (brown sugar, granulated sugar, onion powder, salt, paprika, pepper, mustard, cumin, cayenne pepper, nutmeg) in a bowl.
- Remove the membrane from the ribs.
- Wrap ribs in heavy-duty aluminum foil and apply dry rub generously on both sides.
- Seal the foil tightly and bake for about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
- After baking, mix barbecue sauce with brown sugar. Unwrap ribs carefully and spread the sauce over them.
- Broil for an additional 2-3 minutes until caramelized.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 150 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
