How to Make BBQ Ribs in the Oven: Finger-Lickin’ Good Recipe

Are you ready for a finger-licking, fall-off-the-bone BBQ experience? Look no further than making these delicious BBQ ribs in the oven. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can enjoy the smoky flavors and tender textures of BBQ ribs without any fancy equipment or outdoor grilling.

First, start with a rack of pork ribs and remove the membrane on the backside. The easiest way to do this is to find a loose corner with a paper towel and pull it off – it should come off fairly easily. Next, rub your favorite dry rub all over the ribs, making sure to get all sides covered. You can use anything from pre-made BBQ rubs to your own mix of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, and salt. Then, wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Pop them in the oven at 275°F, and let them slow cook for about 2 and a half hours until they’re tender and juicy. Finally, brush some BBQ sauce on the ribs and broil them for 5 minutes to get that caramelized, crispy finish. Voila, BBQ ribs ready to be enjoyed with some cold drinks and good company!

Introduction:

Who doesn’t love finger-licking good BBQ ribs? But what if you don’t have a grill or outdoor space to cook them? Fear not- the oven is a great alternate option to make juicy, tender ribs that fall off the bone! Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make BBQ ribs in the oven that will have your taste buds dancing with joy.

Getting started:

Choosing the right ribs

The first step to making great ribs is picking the right cut. Whilst baby backs are the most popular, spare ribs work just as well. Choose ribs with a good balance of meat and fat for optimal flavor.

Prepping the meat

Before cooking, it’s important to remove the membrane from the underside of the ribs. Using a paper towel and a sharp knife, loosen the membrane and gently tug it off. This will prevent chewy, stringy bits and give you tender ribs.

Marinating or seasoning

Marinating or seasoning your ribs is essential to infuse flavor through the meat. For a classic BBQ flavor, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and salt. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the ribs.

Cooking the Ribs:

Preheating the oven

Preheat your oven to 275F. Whilst it may seem low, this slow and low method is the secret to tender, juicy ribs.

Adding moisture

Dry heat is the enemy of moist, succulent ribs. To combat this, place a shallow pan of water on the bottom rack of the oven. This will keep the environment moist and prevent the ribs from drying out.

Wrapping with foil

After the first hour of cooking, it’s time to wrap your ribs with foil. This will keep the moisture in and ensure your ribs cook evenly. Wrap the ribs tightly and return to the oven for two more hours.

Unwrapping

After two hours, remove the foil and baste your ribs in your favorite BBQ sauce. Return to the oven uncovered for another 30 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelise. Keep an eye on the ribs to make sure they don’t burn.

Broiling the Ribs

To finish, turn the oven to broil and place your ribs on the top rack. They only need a few minutes under the broiler for the sauce to turn sticky and delicious.

Serving:

Resting the Ribs

Before diving in, let your ribs rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute and result in more tender meat.

Serving Suggestions

BBQ ribs pairs well with coleslaw, corn on the cob, and baked beans. Or keep it simple with a side of fries and a cold beer.

Conclusion:

Making BBQ ribs in the oven is a simple process that results in succulent, fall-off-the-bone meat that is sure to delight your family and friends. With a little bit of patience and some delicious seasoning, you’ll have your own finger-licking good ribs in no time!

Section 2: Preparing the Ribs for the Oven

Choosing the Right Ribs

When it comes to making BBQ ribs in the oven, it’s important to start with the right cut of meat. Baby back ribs are the most popular choice for oven cooking, as they’re easy to handle and have a good amount of meat. However, spare ribs and St. Louis-style ribs can also be used. When choosing ribs, look for a rack with evenly distributed meat and fat. Avoid racks with large chunks of fat or bone, as they can throw off the cooking time.

Trimming the Ribs

Before seasoning and cooking the ribs, it’s important to trim them down to size. Use a sharp knife to remove any excess fat or membrane from the bone side of the ribs. This will help the seasoning penetrate the meat and prevent the ribs from becoming tough and chewy. Once trimmed, you can also cut the rack of ribs into smaller portions for easier handling and cooking.

Seasoning the Ribs

A good seasoning is key to making delicious BBQ ribs in the oven. A classic rub includes a blend of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. However, feel free to experiment with different spices and herbs to find a combination that suits your taste. Generously season the ribs on both sides, massaging the rub into the meat to ensure even coverage. Let the ribs rest for at least 30 minutes to an hour to allow the flavors to fully penetrate the meat.

Marinating the Ribs (Optional)

While seasoning the ribs with a dry rub is typically enough, you can also marinate the ribs overnight for added flavor. A simple marinade can consist of apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and your choice of spices. Simply combine the ingredients in a large plastic bag, add the ribs, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight. The acid in the marinade helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor.

Wrapping the Ribs (Optional)

Wrapping the ribs in foil or parchment paper is a technique known as the “Texas Crutch” and is typically reserved for outdoor smoking or grilling. However, it can also be used to cook ribs in the oven. Simply wrap the seasoned or marinated ribs tightly in foil, adding a small amount of liquid such as apple juice or beer to help steam the meat. This method can help to keep the ribs moist and speed up the cooking time, but it can also result in less crispy bark.

Preheating the Oven

Before cooking the ribs, it’s important to preheat the oven to the proper temperature. Most recipes call for a temperature of 300 to 325 degrees Fahrenheit, which is low and slow enough to break down the tough collagen in the meat and create a juicy, tender texture. Be sure to adjust the oven racks to accommodate the size of your rib rack or individual portions of ribs.

Placing the Ribs in the Oven

Once the oven is preheated and the ribs are seasoned or marinated, it’s time to place them in the oven. If not wrapped in foil, place the ribs on a lined baking sheet or oven-safe rack with the meat side up. If wrapped, place the packet on a baking sheet with the seam side up. For even cooking, avoid crowding the ribs on the baking sheet or rack and leave some space between each portion.

Adding Liquid (Optional)

To keep the ribs moist and add flavor, you can add a small amount of liquid to the bottom of the baking sheet or oven-safe dish. This can be anything from apple juice or beer to water or barbecue sauce. The liquid will help to create steam which will keep the ribs from drying out during the long cooking process. Be sure to check the liquid level periodically and add more as needed.

Cooking the Ribs

Cooking the ribs in the oven will take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size and type of ribs. Be sure to check on the ribs every 30 minutes to one hour, basting them with the cooking liquid if desired. Once the internal temperature of the meat reaches 185 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit, the ribs are done. However, be sure to check for tenderness by inserting a fork in between the bones. The meat should be tender and juicy with a slight resistance.

Finishing the Ribs

Once the ribs are fully cooked, it’s time to finish them off under the broiler or on a hot grill. Brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce or glaze and place them under the broiler or on the grill for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and sticky. Be sure to keep an eye on the ribs to prevent burning. Once done, let the ribs rest for at least 10 minutes before cutting them into portions and serving with your favorite BBQ sides.

Preparing the Ribs for the Oven

When it comes to making BBQ ribs in the oven, preparation is key. In this section, we’ll cover all the steps necessary to ensure your ribs are prepped to perfection.

Getting the Right Types of Ribs

The first step to preparing great ribs is to choose the right type of ribs. The most popular choices for BBQ ribs are baby back ribs, St. Louis-style ribs, and spare ribs. Each type of rib has its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles. Baby back ribs are smaller, leaner ribs located at the top of the ribcage. St. Louis-style ribs come from the lower belly area of the ribcage and are meatier and denser. Spare ribs come from the belly area and have a higher fat content, leading to a richer taste. Decide on the type of rib that will best suit your taste and budget.

Cleaning the Ribs

Before seasoning the ribs, it’s important to clean them to remove any excess debris or fat. Rinse the ribs under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Using a sharp knife, remove the thin, slippery membrane from the back of the ribs. This membrane can be tough and chewy, so removing it will allow the seasonings to penetrate the meat more easily.

Seasoning the Ribs

The key to flavorful BBQ ribs is in the seasoning. Create a rub using your favorite spices, herbs, sugars, and salt. Mix together in a bowl and then spread evenly over both sides of the ribs. Allow the ribs to sit in the seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking.

Adding a Flavorful Liquid

Another way to add flavor to your ribs is by using a flavorful liquid. For example, a mixture of apple cider vinegar and apple juice adds sweetness and tanginess to the ribs. You can also use a beer marinade, cola, or any other flavor combination that appeals to your taste buds. Place the ribs in a baking dish and pour the liquid mixture over them. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the oven.

Cooking Time and Temperature

The key to making tender, succulent ribs in the oven is to cook them slow and low. Preheat the oven to 275°F (135°C). Depending on the type of rib you’re using, the cooking time will vary. Baby back ribs take approximately 2-2.5 hours, St. Louis-style ribs take 2.5-3 hours, and spare ribs take 3-4 hours. Once the ribs are cooked to your desired level of doneness, you can finish them off by broiling them in the oven or grilling them for a few minutes to create a caramelized crust.

By following these steps, you’ll have finger-licking good BBQ ribs that are cooked to perfection. Don’t forget to serve with your favorite BBQ sauce and a side of cornbread for the ultimate BBQ feast!

Enjoy your Delicious Ribs!

That’s it, folks! You’ve got all the tips and tricks you need to make delicious BBQ ribs right in your oven. It’s an easy, simple, and stress-free way to get your BBQ fix, and your taste buds will thank you. We hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful. Don’t forget to come back to our site for more mouth-watering recipes, cooking tips, and kitchen ideas. Thanks for reading, and happy cooking!