Ribs Recipe
Sink your teeth into the ultimate Ribs Recipe, where melt-in-your-mouth baby back ribs are blanketed in a smoky, sweet dry rub and finished with a glossy barbecue glaze. This dish is all about bringing friends and family together—no grill required! Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just craving a finger-licking feast, these oven-baked ribs deliver big flavor, tender texture, and a sticky, satisfying finish that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Ribs Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is chosen with purpose, creating a perfect balance of sweetness, smokiness, and a gentle kick of heat that makes these ribs truly memorable.
- Baby back ribs (2 racks, about 4 pounds): The star of the show—choose meaty racks for the juiciest results.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Brings a deep sweetness that helps form a caramelized crust.
- Paprika (1 tablespoon): Adds vibrant color and a gentle smokiness.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives the rub a savory backbone.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Boosts the overall flavor with subtle sweetness.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out moisture and enhancing every bite.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Offers a little sharpness to balance the sweet and smoky notes.
- Chili powder (1/2 teaspoon): Lends earthy warmth and color.
- Cayenne pepper (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who like a touch of heat—adjust to your taste.
- Barbecue sauce (1 cup, plus more for serving): The finishing touch for that sticky, glossy coating.
- Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon): Brightens the sauce and cuts through the richness of the ribs.
How to Make Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Ribs
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Take a moment to remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn’t already been done—this step is key for tenderness, as it lets all those delicious flavors soak in. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help the rub stick and promote beautiful browning.
Step 2: Make and Apply the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and cayenne pepper if you want a little heat. Rub this spice blend generously and evenly over both sides of the ribs, pressing it in to create a flavorful crust that will infuse every bite.
Step 3: Wrap and Slow Bake
Wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil, ensuring the edges are sealed to lock in moisture. Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours. This low-and-slow method guarantees ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender and loaded with flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Barbecue Sauce
While the ribs are baking, combine your favorite barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar in a small saucepan. Warm the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally—this step not only infuses the sauce with tangy brightness but also makes it easier to brush on later.
Step 5: Glaze and Caramelize
Once the ribs are perfectly tender, carefully unwrap and discard the foil. Brush the ribs generously with the warm barbecue sauce, coating every nook and cranny. For that irresistible sticky finish, pop the ribs under the broiler for 5 to 7 minutes or finish them on the grill for about 5 minutes per side, basting with extra sauce as desired. Slice between the bones and serve with even more sauce on the side.
How to Serve Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your finished ribs with a flurry of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and a hint of freshness. Some folks love a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or even a dash of extra chili flakes for those who crave a bit more kick. A side of crisp pickles or thinly sliced red onions also adds a lovely contrast.
Side Dishes
This Ribs Recipe pairs beautifully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or roasted potatoes. For a lighter touch, toss together a vibrant green salad or grilled vegetables—their freshness will balance the rich, saucy ribs perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Pile the ribs high on a rustic wooden board, scattering fresh herbs around for a vibrant, inviting look. Or, slice the ribs into individual pieces and serve them standing upright in a deep platter for a fun, party-ready presentation. For game day, cut the ribs into single bones and offer a variety of sauces for dipping—watch them disappear!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the ribs cool completely before storing. Wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making them just as crave-worthy the next day.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze cooked ribs individually wrapped in foil and placed in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the ribs and place them on a baking sheet. Cover loosely with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. Brush with fresh barbecue sauce before serving to revive that just-cooked flavor and juiciness.
FAQs
Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
Absolutely! Spare ribs work beautifully in this Ribs Recipe. Just be sure to add a bit more baking time, as they’re larger and meatier than baby back ribs.
Is there a way to make these ribs smokier without a smoker?
Yes! Try adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the dry rub, or use a splash of liquid smoke in your barbecue sauce. You’ll get that delicious smoky flavor even if you’re baking indoors.
What’s the best barbecue sauce for this Ribs Recipe?
That’s totally up to your taste! Use your favorite store-bought sauce or go homemade—sweet, spicy, or tangy all work well. The apple cider vinegar in the recipe helps balance any sauce you choose.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely. You can bake the ribs a day in advance, store them chilled, and then glaze and broil or grill them just before serving. This makes entertaining a breeze!
How do I know when the ribs are done?
You’ll know the ribs are ready when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones. If you gently twist a bone and it moves easily, your ribs are perfect.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with a platter of saucy, tender ribs and a spread of your favorite sides. This Ribs Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, made with simple ingredients and plenty of love. Give it a try, share it with your favorite people, and watch it become a new tradition in your home!
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Ribs Recipe
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This oven-baked ribs recipe features tender, flavorful baby back ribs coated in a sweet and smoky spice rub, slow-cooked to perfection, and finished with a tangy barbecue sauce glaze. Perfectly suited for a comforting American main course, these ribs are juicy, easy to prepare, and ideal for a casual dinner or gathering.
Ingredients
Ribs and Spice Rub
- 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4 pounds total)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Barbecue Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Ribs: Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs for better tenderness and pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help the rub adhere.
- Make the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, chili powder, and optional cayenne pepper to create a balanced, flavorful rub.
- Apply the Rub: Evenly rub the spice mixture over both sides of each rack of ribs, ensuring every part is coated for maximum flavor.
- Wrap and Bake: Wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil to lock in moisture and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 2 ½ to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
- Prepare the Sauce: While the ribs bake, warm the barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar over low heat in a small saucepan to enhance flavor and loosen the sauce for glazing.
- Glaze the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the oven and unwrap carefully. Brush them generously with the warmed barbecue sauce to create a glossy, flavorful coating.
- Finish Under Broiler or Grill: For a caramelized finish, place the ribs under the broiler for 5–7 minutes or grill over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side, brushing with additional barbecue sauce as desired to achieve a smoky glaze and slight char.
- Serve: Slice the ribs between the bones and serve hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- For a smokier flavor, consider using a smoker instead of an oven and cook low and slow at 225°F for 5–6 hours.
- Baby back ribs can be substituted with spare ribs; however, increase the cooking time slightly as spare ribs are larger and meatier.
- Removing the membrane on the back of the ribs allows better penetration of flavors and a more tender final result.
- Use a foil wrap to keep the ribs moist during the slow cooking process.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 rack (approximately 8 ounces)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 22g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
