Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Step 2: Apply the Dry Rub

In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, pressing it into the meat. Make sure the ribs are fully coated, as this rub will add flavor and create a delicious crust as the ribs bake.

Step 3: Wrap the Ribs and Bake

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Lay the ribs on a large sheet of aluminum foil, bone side down. Cover the ribs with another piece of foil, creating a tight seal around the ribs. This helps to trap moisture and steam the ribs, making them incredibly tender.

Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake them for 2.5 to 3 hours. The low and slow cooking will make the meat tender and allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Apply the BBQ Sauce

After the ribs have baked and become tender, it’s time to add the BBQ sauce. Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully peel back the top piece of foil. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure they are fully coated. If you like a lot of sauce, feel free to add more.

Step 5: Finish Under the Broiler

To get that signature sticky, caramelized BBQ finish, place the ribs under the broiler for 5-7 minutes. Watch carefully as the sauce can burn quickly. The broiler will help the sauce set into a beautiful glaze, adding a smoky, slightly charred flavor to the ribs.

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Once the ribs have caramelized, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Use a sharp knife to slice between the ribs, creating individual portions. Serve the ribs with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.

Why You’ll Love Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs:

1. Tender and Juicy: The slow, low-temperature cooking method ensures that the ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, with the flavors of the dry rub and BBQ sauce fully absorbed into the meat.
2. No Grill Required: While grilling is a classic way to cook ribs, baking them in the oven gives you the same tender results without needing to fire up the grill. This makes it perfect for any time of year, regardless of weather conditions.
3. Customizable Flavor: You can personalize the BBQ sauce to your taste. Whether you prefer a sweet, tangy, smoky, or spicy sauce, you can easily adapt the recipe to suit your cravings.
4. Simple and Easy: The ingredients are basic, and the steps are straightforward, making this a great recipe even for beginner cooks. The process of baking and glazing the ribs is simple, and the end result is a showstopper.

Tips for Perfect Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs:

• Low and Slow: The key to tender ribs is slow cooking at a low temperature. Resist the temptation to crank up the heat; this method ensures that the meat becomes tender without drying out.
• Resting the Ribs: Allow the ribs to rest after removing them from the oven. This helps keep the juices inside and ensures they stay moist when sliced.
• Customize Your Dry Rub: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices. You can add more heat with cayenne pepper or chili powder, or enhance the smokiness with smoked paprika or cumin.
• Double the Sauces: If you love a saucy finish, feel free to baste the ribs with more BBQ sauce as they broil for a thicker glaze.

Final Thoughts

Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs are the epitome of comfort food, offering a tender and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This simple, hands-off recipe gives you ribs that rival those cooked on a grill, all while letting the oven do most of the work. Whether you’re serving them for a family dinner, a BBQ party, or simply craving a savory meal, these ribs will definitely steal the spotlight. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to please!