Looking for a delicious way to cook ribs year-round? Look no further! In this guide, I’ll show you how to cook ribs in the oven, step-by-step. Get ready to impress your loved ones with restaurant-quality ribs cooked right in your own kitchen!
Cooking ribs doesn’t have to be intimidating. With this easy oven-baked method, you can achieve tender and flavorful ribs every time. Plus, I’ll share my secret recipe for a homemade rib rub and barbecue sauce that will take your ribs to the next level!
Key Ingredients
- Ribs: Choose a 2 to 3-pound rack of pork baby back, spare ribs, or St. Louis-style ribs. Beef ribs can also be used.
- Rib Rub: Create a sweet and savory seasoning blend using brown sugar, smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dry mustard powder, cayenne, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce or try making your own using my homemade BBQ sauce recipe.
Make the Seasoning
To add layers of flavor to your oven-baked ribs, don’t skip the dry spice rub. Combine light brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg in a medium bowl. If you prefer a stronger molasses flavor, use dark brown sugar. This seasoning mix can be stored for up to 6 months.
Prepare the Ribs
Before seasoning the ribs, make sure to remove the membrane or silverskin from the bottom side of the rack. This will make the ribs more tender and enjoyable to eat. Once the membrane is removed, dry the ribs with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.
Season the Ribs
Place the prepared ribs on a large rimmed baking sheet and generously season both sides with the rib rub. Make sure the seasoning coats the surface of the meat. Any leftover seasoning can be used for other dishes.
Cover and Bake
Cover the baking sheet tightly with aluminum foil and bake the ribs in a preheated oven at 275ºF (135ºC). This low and slow cooking process will create a moist and tender result. The cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of ribs, typically taking 2 to 3 ½ hours.
Add the Sauce
Once the ribs are cooked, carefully uncover the baking sheet and discard any accumulated juices. Brush both sides of the ribs with barbecue sauce and broil for 5 minutes until the sauce concentrates and caramelizes on the surface. Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes, then slice and enjoy.
Flavor Variations
Want to switch up the flavor of your oven-baked ribs? Here are a few tasty options to try:
- Sweetness: Use different types of sugar like granulated sugar or coconut sugar. You can also use honey or maple syrup for a paste-like consistency.
- Spices: Add cumin or coriander for an earthy taste. Experiment with cinnamon or cardamom instead of nutmeg or omit the warm spices altogether.
- Herbs: Incorporate dried herbs like celery seeds, oregano, thyme, or parsley.
- Spicy: Kick up the heat with chipotle, hot paprika, chili powder, or crushed chili flakes.
- Sauces: Try a honey mustard glaze or teriyaki sauce for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Here are some delicious sides to serve with your oven-baked ribs:
- An ice-cold lemonade
- Potato salad or macaroni salad
- Classic coleslaw or Kentucky Fried Chicken coleslaw
- Grilled corn on the cob or Mexican street corn salad
- Grilled pineapple
- Fruit salad or fruit pizza
Now that you have the ultimate guide to cooking ribs in the oven, it’s time to get cooking! Impress your family and friends with tender and flavorful ribs that they’ll be begging for again and again. For more cooking inspiration, visit Ekilove. Happy cooking!
