Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Introduction
Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs are a delicious and crowd-pleasing dish that brings the flavors of summer right to your kitchen. With tender, juicy meat coated in a sweet and tangy sauce, these ribs make for a perfect meal or snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a family dinner, these ribs are sure to impress!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe for Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs is simple and requires minimal ingredients. You don’t need a grill to achieve fall-off-the-bone ribs; your oven can do all the work! The combination of spice rub and BBQ sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that is hard to resist. This dish is perfect for any occasion and can be tailored to suit your taste by choosing your favorite BBQ sauce.
How to Make Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Making Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs is easy and fun. Just follow these simple steps:
Ingredients:
- 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4-5 lbs.)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 cups BBQ sauce, your choice
- Salt to taste
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
- Remove the membrane from the back of each rack of ribs.
- Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and salt in a bowl.
- Rub this mixture all over the ribs, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Place ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil, meat side down. Tent the foil over the ribs to create a sealed packet.
- Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, or until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone.
- Remove from the oven, carefully open the foil, and drain any accumulated juices.
- Brush your favorite BBQ sauce over the ribs and broil for 5-7 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing between the ribs and serving.
How to Serve Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
Serve your Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs hot from the oven. They are great on their own or with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread. Don’t forget extra napkins—they can get messy but that’s part of the fun!
How to Store Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), let the ribs cool completely. Wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just remember to reheat them gently to keep them tender.
Tips to Make Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
- For more flavor, marinate the ribs in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight before baking.
- Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite.
- Be gentle when opening the foil after baking, as hot steam can escape.
Variation
You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite spices to the rub or using a different type of ribs, such as St. Louis-style ribs. For a spicier kick, add some cayenne pepper to the spice mix!
FAQs
1. Can I cook these ribs on the grill?
Yes, you can finish the ribs on the grill! After baking, place them on a hot grill for a few minutes to get a nice char.
2. How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are done when the meat is tender and pulls away easily from the bone. You can also use a meat thermometer; it should read around 190°F (88°C) for tender ribs.
3. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can cook the ribs in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. After that, brush them with BBQ sauce and broil for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Enjoy making and eating these delicious Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs! They’re a sure way to bring smiles to your table.
