These oven-baked ribs are so tender, they practically fall off the bone! With a tasty spice rub and a touch of barbecue sauce, they’re perfect for a family meal or a gathering.
It’s amazing how easy they are to make. Just season, bake, and enjoy! I love serving them with some coleslaw on the side—it’s a match made in heaven!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Baby Back Ribs: These ribs are known for their tenderness and flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try using pork loin back ribs, or if beef is your preference, beef back ribs work well too!
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps to caramelize the meat. For a molasses flavor, use dark brown sugar. You can substitute with coconut sugar or honey, keeping in mind that the texture might change slightly.
Spices: Paprika gives a nice color and flavor. If you want a kick, don’t skip the cayenne! If you’re avoiding it, try using chili powder instead, but note that it can change the flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand! If you’re making your own, consider using honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. If you’re avoiding sugar, look for sugar-free options or make a vinegar-based sauce.
How to Remove the Membrane for Tender Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is key to achieving tenderness. Here’s how:
- Slide a knife under the membrane at one end of the rib rack.
- Use a paper towel to grip the membrane and pull it off. It will come off in one or two pieces.
- This step helps the seasonings penetrate the meat better—definitely worth the extra effort!
Why Foil-Wrapping is Essential?
Wrapping the ribs in aluminum foil while baking is a game changer. It traps steam, keeping the ribs moist and tender. Here’s how to do it right:
- Wrap each rack tightly, ensuring no holes are left for steam to escape.
- Place them on a baking sheet to catch any drips during cooking.
- This method ensures juicy ribs that literally fall off the bone!
Easy Fall-Off-the-Bone Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs (about 2 to 2.5 pounds each)
- For the Spice Rub:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for extra smoky flavor)
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- For the Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Miscellaneous:
- Aluminum foil for wrapping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 2.5 to 3 hours to cook in the oven, depending on how tender you like your ribs. It’s a hands-off cooking method that gives you perfect ribs without much fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow cooking method will help your ribs become tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Ribs
Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs – this helps the meat become even more tender! To do this, slide a knife under the membrane at one end and peel it off. It usually comes off easily if you use a paper towel to grip it.
3. Make the Spice Rub
In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, paprika, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. This blend will give your ribs a delicious flavor!
4. Apply the Spice Rub
Rub the spice mixture thoroughly over both sides of the ribs. Press it in well so the spices stick—this is where all the flavor comes from!
5. Wrap and Bake
Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil, making sure there are no holes or openings. Place them on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
6. Add the Barbecue Sauce
Once the ribs are done baking, carefully unwrap the foil—watch out for hot steam! Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over both sides of the ribs.
7. Optional Broil for Finish
If you like a caramelized finish, you can place the ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after broiling. Then, slice between the bones to serve, and don’t forget to offer extra barbecue sauce on the side!
Enjoy your delicious fall-off-the-bone oven-baked ribs! They’re sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Frequently Asked Questions about Easy Fall-Off-the-Bone Oven Baked Ribs
Can I Use Other Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are the most tender, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just note that cooking times may vary slightly, so check for tenderness along the way!
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can use regular paprika. For a smoky flavor, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce instead.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 20 minutes, or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make These Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the ribs and apply the spice rub, then wrap them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow them to come to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
