These juicy oven-baked beef back ribs are a real treat! They are tender, flavorful, and just need a bit of seasoning before going into the oven. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
When those ribs are done, the smell will make your mouth water! I love serving them with some coleslaw and cornbread—it’s such a comforting meal that makes everyone happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Back Ribs: Look for meaty racks for the best flavor. If you can’t find back ribs, short ribs can be a good alternative, though they’ll take a bit longer to cook.
Olive Oil: This helps the spices stick beautifully to the meat. You can swap olive oil with vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer something with a more neutral flavor.
Spices: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. You might like to experiment with chili powder or cumin if you’re in the mood for something different.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought sauce, or whip up a simple homemade version. I love using honey or brown sugar to add a touch of sweetness if making sauce from scratch!
How Do I Remove the Membrane from the Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the ribs is key for texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it:
- Locate the thin, shiny membrane on the bone side of the ribs.
- Use the back of a spoon or a knife to gently lift one edge of the membrane.
- Once you have a small flap lifted, grab it with paper towels for better grip.
- Pull it off slowly, taking care not to tear it. It should come off in one piece!
This step helps the spices soak in better and makes your ribs even more delicious!
Easy Oven-Baked Beef Back Ribs
Ingredients:
- 2 racks beef back ribs (about 3 to 4 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Time Estimate:
This recipe will take about 3 hours and 40 minutes in total. You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep the ribs and then 3 hours of baking at low heat, followed by 30 minutes at a higher temperature for that delicious, sticky barbecue finish. Plus, don’t forget to let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before serving!
Detailed Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). While the oven is heating, line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. This will help with cleanup later on!
2. Remove the Membrane:
If the membrane is still on the back of the ribs, gently remove it. This thin layer can toughen the meat, so pulling it off allows the seasoning to soak into the ribs better. Use a paper towel for grip if it’s slippery!
3. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if you like a bit of heat). This mixture will give the ribs a great flavor, so mix it well!
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub the ribs all over with olive oil. This helps the spices stick and adds some nice flavor. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture generously onto both sides of the ribs and rub it in. Make sure they’re well coated!
5. Bake the Ribs:
Place the ribs meat side up on the prepared baking sheet. Cover the ribs tightly with another sheet of foil to keep the moisture in. Now, bake them in your preheated oven for 3 hours. They should get tender but won’t fall off the bone just yet.
6. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove the top foil. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce on both sides of the ribs, coating them well.
7. Finish Baking:
Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake the ribs uncovered for another 30 minutes. During this time, brush them with more barbecue sauce once or twice, allowing it to caramelize and get sticky.
8. Let Them Rest:
After the final baking, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, making them even more flavorful!
9. Slice and Serve:
Now it’s time to slice between the bones and serve your delicious beef back ribs! Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a hearty meal.
Enjoy your tender, flavorful beef back ribs—perfect for a hearty dinner or a casual gathering!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Yes! While this recipe calls for beef back ribs, you can also use short ribs or pork ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—short ribs might require a little extra time to become tender.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like it hot, consider adding more cayenne pepper to the spice rub or incorporating chili powder or red pepper flakes. You could also try a spicy barbecue sauce for that extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Ribs in Advance?
Absolutely! You can rub the spices onto the ribs the night before and store them in the fridge, covered. This allows the flavors to marinate. Just let them come to room temperature for 30 minutes before baking the next day.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can brush on some extra barbecue sauce to revitalize the flavor!
