These oven-baked ribs are juicy and tender, and they practically fall off the bone! With a simple blend of spices and a tasty sauce, they bring comfort to any table.
Trust me, there’s something magical about biting into these ribs. I can’t help but smile every time! Pair them with your favorite sides for a meal that everyone will love.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are my favorite for their tenderness, but spare ribs work well too. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey ribs could be an interesting substitute, though they will cook differently.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness to balance the spice. If you’re avoiding sugar, you can use coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, just keep in mind it may alter the flavor slightly.
Barbecue Sauce: Any store-bought sauce does the trick, but homemade can be a fun touch! If you’re looking for a low-sugar option, try using a sugar-free barbecue sauce or make a blend with tomato paste and vinegar.
Spices: The dry rub can be customized! If you prefer a bit of heat, add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. If you’re doing a low-sodium diet, reduce the salt in the rub without compromising taste.
How Do I Remove the Silver Skin from Ribs?
Removing the silver skin is essential for tender ribs. This tough membrane can prevent seasonings from penetrating and make the ribs chewy. Here’s how to do it:
- Place the ribs meat-side down on a cutting board.
- Use a sharp knife to carefully slide under one edge of the silver skin. You can also use a paper towel to grip it more easily.
- Gently pull the membrane away while using the knife to separate it from the meat. Work slowly to avoid tearing.
Once it’s off, you’re ready to season your ribs for a mouthwatering result!
Easy Fall-Off-the-Bone Oven Baked Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs), about 3-4 pounds total
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 20 minutes of active preparation time and around 2.5 to 3 hours of cooking time in the oven. Don’t forget to let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking before slicing! Total, you’re looking at about 3 hours and 20 minutes from start to finish—worth every minute for tender, mouthwatering ribs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature is perfect for making the ribs tender as they cook slowly.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Next, remove the thin silver skin membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is important as it helps make the ribs more tender. You can do this by sliding a knife under one edge and gently pulling it off.
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chili powder (if you’re using it). This dry rub will add great flavor to the ribs!
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, making sure each rack is well coated. This will infuse your ribs with flavor as they cook.
5. Wrap in Foil:
Wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet. This helps to keep the moisture in while the ribs bake, making them fall-off-the-bone tender.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Place the foil-wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re done when the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
7. Unwrap and Sauce:
Once done, carefully remove the ribs from the oven and unwrap the foil—be cautious of the hot steam! Brush the ribs generously with your favorite barbecue sauce on both sides.
8. Optional: Broil for Caramelization:
If you want a nice caramelized finish, place the ribs under the oven broiler for 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
9. Rest and Serve:
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing between the bones. This helps the juices settle. Serve hot and enjoy with extra barbecue sauce on the side!
Now you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful, fall-off-the-bone oven-baked ribs!
FAQ for Easy Fall-Off-the-Bone Oven Baked Ribs
Can I Use Frozen Ribs for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ribs! Just make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight for best results before preparing. They’ll cook more evenly and yield better flavor when thawed.
What If I Don’t Have Barbecue Sauce?
No worries! If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can make a quick sauce by mixing ketchup, vinegar, honey, and spices like Worcestershire sauce and mustard. Adjust to your taste for a customized flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge and warm in the oven or microwave.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want to kick up the heat, increase the chili powder or add some cayenne pepper to the dry rub. You could also use a spicy barbecue sauce for a flavorful kick!
