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Tender Oven-Baked Ribs

Enjoy the delicious taste of tender oven-baked ribs that are easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 45 minutes
Total Time 3 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Barbecue
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 racks racks of baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
Dry Rub
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional) for heat
Barbecue Sauce
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce store-bought or homemade

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
  2. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Slide a knife under the membrane at one end and use a paper towel to grip and pull it off. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together all the dry rub ingredients. Rub the olive oil over both sides of the ribs, then generously sprinkle the dry rub over both sides, pressing it into the meat.
  4. Place each rack of ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil, meat side up. Wrap them tightly to ensure they are completely sealed, then place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet.
Baking
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is pulling away from the bones.
  2. Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully unwrap them. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C).
  3. Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce on both sides, then place them back on the baking sheet, uncovered.
  4. Return the ribs to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the barbecue sauce is caramelized and bubbly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
Serving
  1. Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before cutting into individual ribs. Serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, let the ribs marinate in the dry rub for a few hours or overnight in the refrigerator before cooking. Use a thermometer to check the internal temperature – it should reach at least 190°F (88°C) for tender ribs. Optionally, you can broil the ribs for a minute or two after baking for an extra crispy finish.