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Perfectly Tender Oven-Baked Ribs

Enjoy fall-off-the-bone, juicy ribs—no grill required! These Perfectly Tender Oven-Baked Ribs are slow-cooked to perfection in the oven, seasoned with a rich dry rub, and finished with a sticky, smoky BBQ glaze. They’re the ultimate comfort food for any occasion and perfect for BBQ lovers year-round.

Why You’ll Love These Ribs:

  • Fall-off-the-bone tender: Slow baking makes the meat irresistibly soft.
  • Flavor-packed: A savory-sweet dry rub paired with caramelized BBQ sauce.
  • Fuss-free prep: No grill, no problem—everything’s done in the oven!
  • All-season favorite: Whether it’s summer or a cozy winter night, these ribs deliver.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Dry Rub:

  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

BBQ Sauce:

  • 1 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)

How to Make Tender Oven-Baked Ribs:

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low, slow temperature ensures juicy, tender ribs.

2. Prepare the Ribs

Remove the silver membrane from the back of the ribs using a knife and paper towel for grip. Pat ribs dry with paper towels.

3. Apply the Dry Rub

Rub olive oil over both sides of the ribs. In a small bowl, combine all dry rub ingredients. Generously coat the ribs with the spice mixture, pressing it into the meat.

4. Wrap and Bake

Place each rack of ribs, meat side up, on a large piece of aluminum foil. Wrap tightly and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 2½ to 3 hours, until the ribs are tender and the meat pulls away from the bone.

5. Add BBQ Sauce

Carefully unwrap the ribs and discard the foil. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C). Brush BBQ sauce generously over both sides of the ribs.

6. Finish in the Oven

Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 10–15 minutes until the BBQ sauce is bubbly and caramelized.

7. Rest and Serve

Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Storage Tips:

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap cooled ribs tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

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