Ribs In Oven

Name: Ribs In Oven
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2½ to 3 pounds of baby back ribs; ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons onion powder; 1 tablespoon kosher salt; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 2½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper; 2 teaspoons ground mustard; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper; ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ½ cup barbecue sauce, your favorite brand; 3 tablespoons light brown sugar

Recipe By:

Martha

Posted:

February 20, 2025

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Why You’ll Love This Ribs In Oven

When you think of comfort food, nothing quite compares to tender, juicy ribs. Cooking ribs in the oven brings out a rich flavor that simply melts in your mouth. Plus, it’s an incredibly easy recipe, perfect for anyone juggling a busy lifestyle. No need to fuss over a grill or smoky barbecues—oven-cooked ribs can rival any outdoor feast with their juicy tenderness. The simplicity of this method means you can enjoy the delicious experience of homemade ribs without the stress. Just kick back, relax, and follow this guide to create a dish that friends and family will rave about.

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What is a Ribs In Oven

Cooking ribs in the oven is a straightforward way to enjoy this beloved dish anytime. It involves slowly baking the meat, allowing it to absorb delicious flavors while keeping it tender and juicy. One of the great advantages of cooking ribs in the oven is that you can control the temperature and timing, leading to consistent results. Typically, baby back ribs are a favorite because of their short cooking time and delicious flavor. However, spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs also work well, giving you various options to explore. With the right spices and sauces, you can create a flavor profile that suits your taste buds, making every bite a delight.

Ingredients for Ribs In Oven

2½ to 3 pounds of baby back ribs
⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 tablespoons onion powder
1 tablespoon kosher salt
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
2½ teaspoons fresh cracked black pepper
2 teaspoons ground mustard
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
½ cup barbecue sauce, your favorite brand
3 tablespoons light brown sugar

Preparing Ribs In Oven for Cooking

Preheat Your Oven

Start off by preheating your oven to 300°F. This low temperature is key to achieving tender meat that falls off the bone.

Mix the Spice Rub

In a mixing bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, onion powder, kosher salt, smoked paprika, black pepper, ground mustard, cumin, cayenne pepper, and nutmeg. Stir well until everything blends nicely. This spice rub is what will create that mouthwatering flavor!

Prepare the Ribs

Next, you’ll want to prepare the ribs by carefully removing the membrane located on the underside. Use a knife to help lift it up, then grip it with a paper towel for better traction. Removing this membrane ensures that the spices permeate the meat while cooking.

Set Up for Baking

Grab a large piece of heavy-duty aluminum foil and lay it out flat on a baking sheet. The foil will trap moisture and help keep the ribs juicy during baking.

Season the Ribs

Now comes the fun part: seasoning! Place the ribs bone side up on the foil. Sprinkle about a third of the spice rub over the bones. Massage the rub in well to ensure it sticks. Afterward, flip the ribs and apply the remaining rub on the meaty side.

Wrap and Bake

Crimp the edges of the foil to seal the ribs nicely inside. This helps create steam as they cook, resulting in mouthwatering, juicy ribs. Now, pop them in the preheated oven for about 2 hours and 30 minutes. While they bake, your place will fill with an irresistible aroma!

Adding Flavor with Barbecue Sauce

Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together ½ cup of your favorite barbecue sauce with 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar. This combination will add a rich glaze that complements the smoky flavors from the spice rub.

Broil the Ribs

Once the baking time is done, it’s time to turn up the heat! Increase your oven temperature to broil. Carefully open the foil and spread the barbecue sauce mixture over the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly.

Caramelize and Rest

Now, place the ribs back in the oven and broil for about 2 to 3 minutes. Keep a close eye on them; you want a nice caramelization. Once they look perfect and glossy, take them out and let the ribs rest for a good 10 minutes before serving. Resting helps the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite is tender.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving your ribs, think comfort. A side of coleslaw adds a crunchy contrast, while baked beans bring in a savory sweetness. Cornbread always pairs wonderfully, too. You can create a feast that feels like a summer cookout, even in your home!

Tips for Success

To really nail your ribs, start with quality meat. Baby back ribs are great, but don’t hesitate to try spare ribs for a different experience. Adjust the spices according to your taste. If you prefer a little kick, add more cayenne pepper. When it comes to choosing barbecue sauces, there are so many styles—smoky, tangy, or sweet. Go with what suits your palate!

Variations

Mix things up with some alternative flavors! Consider a honey garlic glaze or a tangy spicy mustard for a twist. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore different cooking methods too. Using a smoker or slow cooker can yield fantastic results and give your ribs a unique flavor.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll last up to 3 days. For reheating, simply place them in a preheated oven at 250°F until warmed through. This method keeps them from drying out and maintains that tender quality.

Pairing Ideas

Ribs pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Consider serving them with crispy fries, sweet potato mash, or a light salad for balance. And don’t forget the beverages! A cold beer, sweet iced tea, or a nice red wine can elevate the meal to a whole new level.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ribs?
Yes! Spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs work great; just adjust the cooking time as needed.
What should I do if I don’t have aluminum foil?
You can use a roasting pan covered with a lid or another oven-safe cover, keeping it sealed well.
How can I make my ribs spicier?
Try increasing the amount of cayenne pepper in your spice rub or select a spicier barbecue sauce.
Can I marinate the ribs overnight?
Definitely! Marinating overnight enhances the flavor and tenderness.
What’s the best way to reheat leftover ribs?
Reheat in a preheated oven at 250°F until warmed through. It helps keep them tender and delicious.

Cooking ribs in the oven can become your go-to method for a hearty meal that wows everyone. With the right spices, a sticky sauce, and perhaps a few eager helpers, you can transform an ordinary gathering into a memorable feast. Enjoy making it your own!

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Ribs In Oven

Why You’ll Love This Ribs In Oven

What is a Ribs In Oven

Ingredients for Ribs In Oven