These oven-baked spare ribs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor! With a sweet and tangy sauce, they are easy to make right in your kitchen, no grill needed.
I love how my house smells like a BBQ joint every time I make these. Just pop them in the oven, and let the magic happen! Perfect for family dinners or game day munching!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Spare Ribs: Choose good quality spare ribs, typically found at your local butcher or grocery store. If you prefer, baby back ribs also work well and cook a bit faster.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the rub adhere. You can substitute with vegetable oil or melted butter if you’re out of olive oil.
Brown Sugar: It brings sweetness and helps form a caramelized crust. If you’d like a less sweet option, try using coconut sugar or honey. Just adjust the amount slightly.
Paprika: This adds color and depth. You can swap it with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or even cayenne if you want more heat.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade sauce! Feel free to try a mustard-based or vinegar-based sauce for a different twist.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Spare Ribs?
Removing the membrane on the back of spare ribs is important for getting tender, flavorful results. This thin layer can make the ribs tough if left on. Here’s how to do it:
- Slide a butter knife under the membrane at one end of the rack.
- Use a paper towel to grip the membrane and gently pull it off. It should come off in one piece, but don’t worry if some bits remain.
- Make sure to check both racks for membranes.
This technique will really help in achieving tender meat that’s packed with flavor! Remember, take your time with it. Happy cooking!
Oven-Baked Spare Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Ribs:
- 2 racks of spare ribs (about 4-5 pounds)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Spice Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
For The Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for prep and 3 hours for baking, which includes cooking the ribs at a low temperature for tenderness and then finishing them off at a higher temperature for a tasty glaze. All in all, it’s about 3 hours and 15 minutes to mouth-watering spare ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help cook the ribs slowly and make them tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
If there’s a tough membrane on the back of the ribs, gently remove it. This step is important because it allows the heat and flavors to reach the meat better. You can slide a knife under it and then pull it off using a paper towel for a better grip.
3. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you like some heat), and dried thyme. This mixture will give the ribs a delicious flavor.
4. Season the Ribs:
Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, making sure to coat both sides well. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it’s what makes the ribs special!
5. Arrange the Ribs for Baking:
Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil, with the meat side facing up. If you’d like to keep the ribs moist while baking, you can cover them tightly with aluminum foil.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Bake the ribs in your preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and the meat starts pulling away from the bones.
7. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Once the ribs are done baking, take them out of the oven. Discard the foil (if you used it) and brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the ribs. This adds flavor and helps create that beautiful glaze.
8. Finish in the Oven:
Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and put the ribs back in the oven for another 15-20 minutes, uncovered. This step will caramelize the sauce and make it sticky and delicious!
9. Let the Ribs Rest:
When the ribs are finished, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps them juicy when you cut them.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the ribs between the bones and serve them warm. Feel free to offer extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked spare ribs!
Can I Use Baby Back Ribs Instead of Spare Ribs?
Absolutely! Baby back ribs are leaner and will cook a bit faster, so reduce the baking time to about 2 to 2.5 hours at the same temperature. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook!
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce on hand, you can use a mix of ketchup and apple cider vinegar along with a bit of honey or brown sugar for sweetness. Another option is to use a homemade sauce made from ingredients like tomato paste, vinegar, and spices!
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage; just wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm in the oven or microwave.
Can I Make the Spice Rub Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the spice rub a day or two in advance! Just combine the dry ingredients in an airtight container and store it at room temperature. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the olive oil and rub it onto the ribs!
