These Super Tender Dry Rub Baked Ribs are full of flavor and so easy to make! Just coat the ribs with a tasty dry rub, let them bake, and enjoy melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
Honestly, the best part? No grill needed! I love how simple it is; I just pop them in the oven and kick back until they’re ready. Perfect for a cozy dinner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: This recipe is best with baby back ribs for their tenderness. If they’re not available, you can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs, which are also delicious but may require a bit more cooking time.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, you can use honey or maple syrup instead. Just reduce the amount slightly as they are more concentrated.
Paprika: I love using smoked paprika for a deeper flavor. However, if you prefer a milder taste, sweet paprika works great too. You could even skip it if you want a simpler spice mix.
Apple Juice or Cider: This keeps the ribs moist while baking. If you don’t have apple juice, any fruit juice like pineapple or orange can also work, or simply use water with a splash of vinegar for a similar effect.
What’s the Best Way to Prep My Ribs?
Removing the thin membrane from the ribs is key for maximum tenderness. This membrane can toughen while cooking, preventing the rub from fully flavoring the meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Flip the rib rack so the bony side is up.
- Use a sharp knife to gently lift one corner of the membrane.
- Grab it with a paper towel for a better grip and pull it off. It should come away easily.
This simple step will really make your ribs more tender and flavorful. Get ready for melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
How to Make Super Tender Dry Rub Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 2-3 pounds each)
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
For Moisture:
- 1/2 cup apple juice or apple cider
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
You will need about 15 minutes to prep the ribs and mix the rub. Then, bake them for 2.5 to 3 hours in the oven. If you want a nice caramelized finish, plan for an extra 10-15 minutes under the broiler or on the grill. That’s a total of about 3 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy tender, delicious ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow method will help make the ribs super tender!
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Flip the racks of ribs so the bony side is up. Carefully remove the thin membrane from the back. This helps the spices soak in and makes them more tender!
3. Mix the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and ground cumin. Stir everything together to make your delicious dry rub mixture.
4. Apply the Rub:
Generously rub the spice mix all over the ribs, getting it into every nook and cranny. Don’t be shy—press it in well!
5. Add Moisture:
Take a large piece of aluminum foil and lay the ribs on it with the meat side facing up. Pour the apple juice or cider around the ribs to keep them nice and moist while they bake.
6. Wrap the Ribs:
Wrap the ribs tightly in the foil, sealing the edges to create a secure packet. This is crucial for steaming the ribs to tenderness.
7. Bake the Ribs:
Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and put them in the oven. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours. They’re done when they are tender and the meat begins to pull away from the bone—yum!
8. Optional Broiling or Grilling:
If you love a caramelized finish, unwrap the ribs and either place them under the broiler for 5-7 minutes per side or throw them on a hot grill. Brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce during this step for extra flavor!
9. Serving:
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve them warm and enjoy your super tender, flavorful dry rub baked ribs!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are recommended for their tenderness, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just keep in mind that they may require additional cooking time due to their larger size.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave, adding a little moisture (like apple juice) to keep them juicy.
Can I Make the Dry Rub Ahead of Time?
Definitely! You can mix the dry rub ingredients in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to a month. This makes it super convenient for future rib nights!
What Should I Serve with the Ribs?
These ribs go great with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. You can also serve them with fresh vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy!
