These oven-baked spare ribs are tender, juicy, and full of flavor! They get a sweet and tangy coating that makes every bite irresistible.
Trust me, there’s nothing like the smell of ribs baking in the oven. I love serving them with cornbread and watching everyone go back for seconds! 🍖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Spare Ribs: Look for fresh ribs that are meaty and well-trimmed. If spare ribs are hard to find, baby back ribs make a great alternative since they’re similar but leaner in meat.
Brown Sugar: This adds a lovely sweetness. If you’re out of brown sugar, you can mix white sugar with a bit of molasses, or even use honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist.
Paprika: Regular paprika gives a nice color and flavor. If you prefer a smoky flavor, opt for smoked paprika. Either will work well!
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce or make your own. For a healthier option, look for BBQ sauces that use natural sweeteners or make a vinegar-based sauce for a tangy twist.
How Do You Prepare Ribs Like a Pro?
One key step is removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This helps the spices penetrate better and avoids a tough texture when cooked. Here’s how to do it:
- Run a knife under the membrane at one end of the ribs to loosen it.
- Use your fingers or paper towels for grip and pull it off gently in one piece.
Taking this step will make a big difference in the tenderness of your ribs. Don’t skip it!
How to Make Oven-Baked Spare Ribs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks of spare ribs (about 3-4 pounds)
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time and 3 hours of baking time. So, set aside roughly 3 hours and 20 minutes in total, allowing the pork to become tender and flavorful in the oven.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will cook the ribs slowly, making them tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. You can do this by sliding a knife under the membrane and gripping it with your hands or some paper towels to help pull it off. This step keeps the ribs tender and helps the flavors soak in.
3. Make the Dry Rub:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you like some heat), and chili powder. Mix them well to create your dry rub.
4. Rub the Spice Mixture:
Generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs. Make sure they are well coated, as this adds tons of flavor!
5. Arrange the Ribs:
Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Cover the ribs tightly with another piece of foil to keep them moist during baking.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Put the covered ribs in the preheated oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours or until they are nice and tender. The smell will be irresistible!
7. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Once the ribs are done baking, carefully remove them from the oven and discard the top layer of foil. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce all over the ribs to coat them in a tasty, sticky layer.
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Increase your oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes. This helps caramelize the barbecue sauce and adds a delicious glaze.
9. Rest and Slice:
Take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more delicious. After resting, slice them into portions.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your mouth-watering ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your tasty homemade oven-baked spare ribs!
Can I Use Other Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! You can use baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs instead of spare ribs. Just note that baby back ribs might cook a bit faster, so start checking for tenderness after about 2 hours.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce, you can use a variety of alternatives! Try a mixture of ketchup, vinegar, and a bit of honey, or even a homemade sauce using tomatoes and spices. You can also make a vinegar-based sauce for a tangy twist!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap 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 Prepare the Ribs the Night Before?
Definitely! You can rub the spice mixture on the ribs the night before and keep them covered in the fridge. This allows the flavors to really penetrate the meat. Just let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
