Tender Oven-Baked Ribs
This recipe delivers unbelievably tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with minimal effort. Slow-baked in the oven, these ribs develop incredible flavor and a juicy texture, perfect for any gathering or a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork baby back ribs or spare ribs
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 0.5 cup BBQ sauce for basting (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C). Line a large baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- 2. Pat ribs dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to create a dry rub.
- 3. Generously rub the spice mixture over all sides of the ribs.
- 4. Place the seasoned ribs on the prepared baking sheet, meat-side up. Cover tightly with another layer of aluminum foil.
- 5. Bake for 3 hours, then carefully check on the ribs. They should be fall-off-the-bone tender, and the internal temperature should be 203°F (95°C) at the thickest part. If they're not quite tender, continue baking for another 30-60 minutes, checking periodically.
- 6. (Optional) Remove the top foil. Increase oven temperature to 375°F (190°C). Baste the ribs with BBQ sauce and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and slightly sticky.
- 7. Remove from oven, let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate ribs overnight in the dry rub. If you prefer a caramelized crust, finish the ribs under the broiler for 5-10 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce. Serve with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.