These oven-baked spare ribs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor! Coated in a tasty barbecue sauce, they’re easy to make and perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in.
When I make these ribs, my kitchen smells amazing. I love serving them with coleslaw and cornbread for a mini feast that everyone enjoys. You’ll be licking your fingers for sure! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spare Ribs: I love using spare ribs for their tender, flavorful meat. If you’re looking for alternatives, baby back ribs are a leaner option with a slightly different taste. Just adjust cooking time since they may cook faster.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds lovely sweetness and moisture. If you’re out, you can substitute with white sugar and a touch of molasses. Coconut sugar is a great option as well if you want a more natural sweetener.
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, you can use sweet paprika or a touch of cayenne pepper for some heat. Just keep in mind it won’t have the same smokiness.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce—store-bought or homemade works great! If you want it healthier, look for low-sugar options or make a simple mix with ketchup and vinegar, adding your own spices.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs can seem tricky, but it’s easier than you think! This step helps the ribs cook evenly and allows the flavors to seep in. Here’s how you do it:
- Place the ribs meat-side down on a cutting board. You’ll see a thin, shiny membrane on the back.
- Use a knife to gently lift one corner of the membrane. A butter knife works well for this!
- Once you have a bit lifted, use a paper towel to grip it and pull it off completely. It should come off in one piece.
Taking this time really makes a difference in the final dish, so don’t skip this step!
Oven-Baked Spare Ribs Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of spare ribs (about 3-4 pounds total)
For the Spice Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
For Glazing:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 2.5 to 3 hours of baking time, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for glazing. So, in total, plan for about 3 hours and 30 minutes, but most of that time is the ribs baking in the oven while you can relax!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method is key for tender, flavorful ribs.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Take each rack of ribs and check for the thin, silver membrane on the back. Using a sharp knife, carefully remove this membrane to help the ribs cook evenly and absorb all the delicious flavors from the rub.
3. Make the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, black pepper, and salt. If you enjoy a little kick, feel free to add some red pepper flakes according to your taste!
4. Rub the Ribs:
Generously apply the spice mixture over both sides of the ribs, making sure they’re well-coated for maximum flavor.
5. Arrange the Ribs for Baking:
Place the ribs on a baking sheet that you’ve lined with aluminum foil (this makes cleanup much easier!). Then, cover the ribs tightly with another piece of foil to keep them moist while they bake.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Put the covered ribs into the oven and let them bake for 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the meat is tender and has pulled back from the ends of the bones.
7. Glaze the Ribs:
Once the baking is done, carefully remove the ribs from the oven and take off the top layer of foil. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the tops of the ribs to add a sweet and tangy layer of flavor.
8. Increase Temperature for Caramelizing:
Raise the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Return the glazed ribs back to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will give the sauce a nice bubbly and caramelized finish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
When the time is up, take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. After resting, slice them up and serve with any extra barbecue sauce on the side. Enjoy your delicious oven-baked spare ribs!
Can I Use Baby Back Ribs Instead of Spare Ribs?
Absolutely! Baby back ribs will work just fine in this recipe. Just keep in mind they may cook a little faster than spare ribs due to their smaller size, so start checking for tenderness about 15-30 minutes earlier.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months.
What’s a Good Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you’re out of barbecue sauce or want a healthier option, you can use a mix of tomato sauce, vinegar, honey, and spices to create your own glaze! Combine 1 cup of tomato sauce with 2 tablespoons of vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, and seasonings like paprika and cayenne to taste.
Can I Prep These Ribs the Night Before?
Yes, you can! Prepare the ribs by rubbing them with the spice mixture and wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate overnight for the best flavor. Just make sure to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking the next day to ensure even cooking.
