These delicious oven-baked beef back ribs are super easy to make! They get nice and tender in the oven with a tasty rub that brings out all the flavors. Yum!
Honestly, the smell that fills the kitchen while they’re baking is just the best. I like to serve mine with some coleslaw on the side for a perfect meal. You’ll love this simple recipe!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Back Ribs: These are the star of the dish, bringing rich, meaty flavor. If you can’t find them, short ribs can work in a pinch, though the texture will be a bit different.
Brown Sugar: This adds sweetness and helps create a caramelized crust. You can swap it for honey or maple syrup if you’re looking for alternatives.
Smoked Paprika: It gives ribs a lovely smoky flavor without needing a grill. Regular paprika can be used, but you’ll miss that smokiness.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional if you prefer milder flavors. If you want a kick without cayenne, consider using a sprinkle of chili powder instead.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite; homemade or store-bought both work great. I really enjoy using a tangy sauce to balance out the sweetness of the rub.
How Do I Prepare the Ribs for Cooking?
Preparing the ribs correctly is crucial for ensuring tenderness. Start by removing the membrane on the back of the ribs. This thin layer can make ribs tough if left on. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a butter knife to gently pry up a corner of the membrane.
- Once lifted, grab it with a paper towel for a better grip and pull it off slowly.
- Trim off any excess fat if desired, but leave some for flavor!
Following these steps will help your ribs turn out really tender and flavorful in the end!
Easy Oven-Baked Beef Back Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef back ribs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- Aluminum foil for wrapping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 3 to 3.5 hours of cooking time in the oven. You’ll have tasty, tender ribs waiting for you to enjoy with little active work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low and slow approach helps the ribs become juicy and tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Check if the membrane on the back of the ribs has been removed. If it hasn’t, gently lift a corner with a butter knife and pull it off using a paper towel for grip. This will help the ribs cook better!
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and optional cayenne pepper. This spice rub is going to give your ribs a burst of flavor!
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub the spice mixture all over the beef ribs, making sure to cover both sides evenly. This will be the tasty coating that makes every bite delicious!
5. Wrap the Ribs:
Wrap the seasoned ribs tightly in aluminum foil. This keeps them moist while they cook, ensuring tenderness.
6. Bake:
Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake them in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
7. Unwrap and Drain:
Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove them from the oven and unwrap the foil. Be careful, as hot steam will escape! Drain off any excess liquid.
8. Sauce it Up:
Generously brush your favorite barbecue sauce over both sides of the ribs. This saucy goodness will give you that classic barbecue flavor.
9. Caramelize:
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Place the ribs back in the oven, uncovered, for about 10 to 15 minutes. This step helps the sauce caramelize and gets nice and sticky.
10. Serve:
After baking, let the ribs rest for a few minutes. Then, slice between the bones and they’re ready to serve! Enjoy your tender, flavorful ribs with your favorite sides!
Dig in and enjoy your delicious homemade oven-baked beef back ribs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Short Ribs Instead of Back Ribs?
Yes, you can use short ribs, but keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly. Short ribs are usually thicker, so they might need additional cooking time to become tender. Just ensure they’re wrapped well in foil to retain moisture!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover them with foil and warm them in the oven at 275°F (135°C) until heated through, or microwave them gently. This helps keep them moist!
Can I Make These Ribs Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs (including seasoning and wrapping) a day in advance and refrigerate them. Just remember to take them out to get to room temperature before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What Should I Serve with Beef Back Ribs?
Beef back ribs pair wonderfully with coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, or grilled vegetables. They also go great with a fresh green salad to balance the richness of the ribs!
