These fall-off-the-bone oven baked ribs are a treat! Tender meat smothered in a tasty sauce makes them hard to resist. Perfect for any gathering, they’ll have everyone coming back for more!
Honestly, nothing beats the smell of ribs baking away in the oven. I love how easy they are to make—pop them in, relax, and get ready to enjoy a delicious meal with your favorite sides!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baby Back Ribs: These are ideal for their tenderness and flavor. If you can’t find baby back ribs, spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs work too, but they might need additional cooking time.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. You can swap it out for vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer, though olive oil gives a nice flavor.
Smoked Paprika: This is key for that smoky taste. If you don’t have it, regular paprika can work, but consider adding a drop of liquid smoke for that depth.
Cayenne Pepper: Use this if you like a little heat. If not, you can leave it out or replace it with a bit of black pepper for a milder flavor.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce! Homemade is great, but store-bought can save time. You can also use alternatives like a sugar-free version for a healthier option.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial for tender meat and better flavor absorption. It might seem tricky, but it’s pretty simple!
- Use a sharp knife to gently lift one corner of the membrane at the end of the ribs.
- Once you lift it, grab a paper towel to get a better grip as it can be slippery.
- Pull it off slowly, working your way down the bone. If it tears, just peel off the remaining pieces.
Taking the time to remove this membrane will really improve your rib experience! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Fall-off-the-Bone Oven Baked Ribs!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 4-5 pounds)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and then you’ll need to bake the ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours. So, set aside a total of approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes to enjoy these delicious ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). This low heat is perfect for making the ribs tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Check the back of the ribs for a thin membrane that can be tough. If it’s there, use a knife to carefully remove it. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels so the seasonings stick better.
3. Season the Ribs:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well. Now, take this spice mix and rub it all over the ribs, covering both sides gently but thoroughly.
4. Wrap the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs on a large piece of aluminum foil. Wrap the foil tightly around the ribs, making sure to seal the edges so the steam stays inside. This will make the ribs even more tender!
5. Bake:
Put the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Check for tenderness; the meat should start pulling away from the bone. Yum!
6. Finish with Barbecue Sauce:
Once baked, carefully unwrap the foil (watch out for the hot steam!). Brush a generous amount of your favorite barbecue sauce over the ribs, making them even more delicious!
7. Broil (Optional):
If you like a little caramelization, pop the ribs under the broiler for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Just a little char adds so much flavor!
8. Serve:
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before cutting them between the bones. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side, and enjoy every delicious bite of your fall-off-the-bone ribs!
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While baby back ribs are great for this recipe, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly; spare ribs may require an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour due to their thicker meat.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika or chili powder. While it won’t provide the same smoked flavor, it will still add a nice depth to the seasoning.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Definitely! You can prepare the ribs and season them a day before. Just keep them wrapped tightly in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
How to 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 a 250°F (120°C) oven until heated through, or microwave them on low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out.
