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Tender Oven-Baked BBQ Ribs

These oven-baked BBQ ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, packed with smoky-sweet flavor, and ridiculously easy to make. Slow-cooked to perfection, then caramelized with a sticky, saucy finish—get ready for the best ribs of your life!
Print Recipe
Tender Oven-Baked BBQ Ribs
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time:3 hours 40 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 racks of baby back ribs
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Dry Rub:

  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce store-bought

Instructions

Get the Oven Ready

  • Set your oven to 275°F (135°C) and let it preheat while you prep the ribs.

Prep the Ribs

  • Flip the ribs over and remove the thin membrane on the back. Use a knife to loosen one edge, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off—it helps the ribs stay tender.
  • Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.

Season Like You Mean It

  • In a small bowl, mix up your dry rub.
  • Rub a little olive oil on both sides of the ribs.
  • Generously coat the ribs with the dry rub, pressing it in so all that flavor sticks.

Wrap and Bake

  • Lay out a large sheet of aluminum foil and place the ribs meat-side up.
  • Wrap them tightly in the foil, sealing all edges.
  • Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 3-3.5 hours, until the meat is tender and pulling away from the bones.

Sauce and Caramelize

  • Take the ribs out and carefully unwrap them.
  • Turn the oven up to 450°F (230°C).
  • Slather on your favorite barbecue sauce, making sure both sides are well-coated.
  • Pop them back in the oven, uncovered, for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce is thick, caramelized, and bubbly. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!

Time to Eat!

  • Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing. Then dig in and enjoy fall-off-the-bone goodness!
Servings: 4