Easy Baked Ribs

This Easy Baked Ribs recipe makes tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs right in your oven. Seasoned with a smoky homemade spice rub and brushed with sweet BBQ sauce, these ribs are full of flavor and perfectly caramelized. Ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or summer cookouts, this simple oven-baked method gives you restaurant-quality baby back ribs without the grill. Perfect for beginners and packed with classic barbecue taste.

These Easy Baked Ribs come out tender, juicy, and full of smoky flavor—no grill required. Slow-baked in the oven with a flavorful spice rub and finished with a rich BBQ glaze, these ribs are perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or any time you’re craving fall-off-the-bone perfection.

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Ingredients

For the Ribs:

• 1 slab baby back ribs (2 ½ – 3 lbs total)
• ½ cup BBQ sauce (more or less, to taste)

For the Spice Rub:

• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pan:
   Line a baking sheet with foil and set aside.
2. Prep the ribs:
   If needed, remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs. Trim off any thick pieces of excess fat, but leave a thin layer for flavor.
3. Make the spice rub:
   In a small bowl, mix together all the spice rub ingredients until well combined.
4. Season the ribs:
   Sprinkle half the spice rub over one side of the ribs and rub it in evenly. Flip and repeat with the remaining spice mix. Wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap, place them on the prepared baking sheet, and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
5. Bake the ribs:
   Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Unwrap the ribs and place them directly on the foil-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with another piece of foil and bake for 3½ hours, or until tender (see notes for larger racks).
6. Add the BBQ sauce:
   Carefully remove the top foil and pour off any excess liquid. Brush BBQ sauce evenly over the ribs, then return them to the oven, uncovered, for another 30 minutes, or until caramelized and glossy.
7. Rest and serve:
   Let the ribs rest for 15 minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

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Tips

• Removing the silver skin ensures the ribs become tender instead of chewy.
• Low and slow baking gives the best texture—don’t rush the cooking time.
• For an extra caramelized finish, broil the ribs for 2–3 minutes after brushing on the BBQ sauce.
• Letting the ribs rest before cutting keeps them juicy.

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This Easy Baked Ribs recipe makes tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone ribs right in your oven. Seasoned with a smoky homemade spice rub and brushed with sweet BBQ sauce, these ribs are full of flavor and perfectly caramelized. Ideal for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or summer cookouts, this simple oven-baked method gives you restaurant-quality baby back ribs without the grill. Perfect for beginners and packed with classic barbecue taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Different ribs: This recipe also works with St. Louis-style ribs or spare ribs (add 30–45 minutes to baking time).
• Dry rub only: Skip the BBQ sauce and serve with extra rub and a squeeze of lemon.
• Flavor twist: Add brown sugar to the rub for a sweeter finish or chipotle powder for smoky heat.
• Sauce swap: Try honey mustard, teriyaki, or Korean BBQ sauce for a new flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make these ribs ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the ribs, cool, then refrigerate. Reheat at 300°F covered with foil until warmed through, then brush with BBQ sauce and caramelize in the oven.

Do I need to flip the ribs while baking?
No, the foil traps moisture and heat evenly, so flipping isn’t necessary.

Can I make these ribs without foil?
Foil helps trap steam and keeps the ribs moist. If you skip it, cover the pan tightly with a lid or another baking sheet.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a classic BBQ meal.
• Add roasted potatoes, mac and cheese, or grilled vegetables for hearty sides.
• Serve with fresh lemonade, iced tea, or a cold beer for a summer dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy, oven-baked method—no grill required.
• Tender, flavorful ribs with a perfect caramelized crust.
• Simple ingredients, big BBQ flavor.
• Great for family dinners, parties, or meal prep.
• Works year-round, even when it’s too cold to grill.