Classic BBQ Ribs in the Oven
Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Aluminum foil
- Wire Rack optional but recommended
- Small Mixing Bowl
- Pastry Brush
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 2 racks about 4 lbs baby back ribs or St. Louis-style spare ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp smoked paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper optional for heat
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp kosher salt
For the BBQ Sauce (or use store-bought)
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
Prep the Ribs
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better texture. Use a knife to loosen it at one end, then grab it with a paper towel and peel it off.
Season the Ribs
- In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, cayenne, black pepper, and salt.
- Brush the ribs with olive oil and generously coat them with the spice rub.
Wrap and Bake
- Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. If you have a wire rack, set the ribs on it to keep them elevated.
- Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil to trap moisture.
- Bake for 2.5 hours until the ribs are tender and juicy.
Make the BBQ Sauce
- While the ribs bake, combine all the BBQ sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
Finish with Broiling
- Carefully unwrap the ribs and discard any liquid. Brush the ribs generously with BBQ sauce.
- Broil on high for 3-5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
Rest and Serve
- Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.