These oven-baked beef ribs are super easy to make and turn out tender and juicy! Just season them well, pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen.
Honestly, the smell while they cook is just the best! I can never resist sneaking a taste. Serve them with your favorite BBQ sauce, and you’ve got a winner! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Ribs: You’ll want to choose beef back ribs or short ribs. They both have great flavor. If you can’t find them, pork ribs can also work, but the cooking time might vary. Just keep an eye on them!
Olive Oil: This is for rubbing the ribs to keep them moist. If you’re looking for a different flavor, try using avocado oil or even melted butter instead. Both will keep the ribs tender!
Spices: Garlic, onion powder, and smoked paprika are key for that deep flavor. If you’re out of smoked paprika, regular paprika or a bit of chili powder can be good substitutes for a kick!
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce. If you’re avoiding sugar, you can make a low-sugar or sugar-free sauce. Honey or maple syrup are great natural sweeteners if you want a little sweetness!
Beef Broth: Using beef broth adds depth to the dish, but you can also use vegetable broth, chicken broth, or even plain water if you’re in a pinch.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Ribs?
The key to tender beef ribs is cooking them low and slow. Here’s how to make sure they come out just right:
- Preheat to a low temperature of 275°F (135°C) before you start cooking. Low heat helps break down the tough fibers in the meat.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil—this traps steam and moisture, helping the ribs get tender.
- Check them at the 3-hour mark. If the meat is pulling away from the bone easily, they’re ready!
- Finish by increasing the heat to 400°F (200°C) to caramelize the BBQ sauce for those tasty, sticky edges.
Taking these steps will ensure super tender and flavorful ribs that you and your family will love! Enjoy your delicious meal! 🥩
Easy Oven Baked Beef Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 lbs beef ribs, cut into individual pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 3 to 3.5 hours to cook. You’ll need a bit of time to let the ribs bake low and slow, plus extra time to caramelize the barbecue sauce. But trust me, it’s worth the wait for those tender, juicy ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low temperature is key for tender ribs.
2. Make the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. This flavorful blend will give your ribs a delicious kick!
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Rub the beef ribs all over with olive oil to help the spices stick. Then, use the seasoning mixture to coat the ribs evenly. Make sure to cover all sides for maximum flavor!
4. Arrange in the Pan:
Place the seasoned ribs bone side down in a large baking dish or roasting pan. This helps to keep the meat moist as it cooks.
5. Add Moisture:
Pour the beef broth (or water) around the ribs in the pan. This will steam the ribs as they cook, ensuring they stay juicy and tender.
6. Cover and Bake:
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. This seals in the moisture. Bake in the oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours, checking for tenderness. The meat should easily pull away from the bone when done.
7. Brush with BBQ Sauce:
After the ribs are tender, remove the foil and brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce. This is where they start to get that sticky, delicious glaze!
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Now, increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and bake the ribs uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This helps caramelize the sauce for that perfect finish.
9. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite juicy! Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your tender and tasty beef ribs! They’re perfect for a family dinner or gathering. Happy eating! 🥳
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While beef ribs are the star of this recipe, you can also use pork ribs, which may require a shorter cooking time. Just make sure to adjust the cooking duration based on tenderness!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you’re out of smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. Adjust the quantity according to your heat preference!
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
You sure can! You can prepare the ribs and season them the night before. Just cover and refrigerate, then let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help keep them from drying out.
