Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the Membrane: Place the ribs on a cutting board, bone side up. Using a paper towel, grab the thin membrane on the back of the ribs and gently pull it off. This helps the ribs become more tender and allows the seasoning to penetrate better.
3. Rub with Olive Oil: Drizzle the olive oil over the ribs, coating them evenly.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

1. Mix the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, black pepper, and salt.
2. Apply the Rub: Generously rub the spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Bake the Ribs

1. Wrap in Foil: Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, bone side down. Cover the ribs tightly with another piece of foil to trap moisture and create steam, which helps cook the ribs evenly.
2. Bake Low and Slow: Bake the ribs in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours. This slow cooking method ensures the meat becomes tender and juicy.

Step 4: Glaze and Broil

1. Remove from Oven: After baking, carefully remove the ribs from the oven and take off the top layer of foil. Be cautious, as hot steam will escape.
2. Add BBQ Sauce: Brush a generous layer of barbecue sauce over the ribs. If you prefer a spicier flavor, feel free to add more sauce to taste.
3. Broil for Finish: Switch the oven setting to broil. Return the ribs to the oven and broil for an additional 5-10 minutes, watching closely to ensure they don’t burn. This step caramelizes the sauce, giving the ribs a sticky and delicious finish.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Rest the Ribs: Once the ribs are beautifully caramelized, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 5-10 minutes before cutting.
2. Slice and Serve: Using a sharp knife, slice between the bones to create individual servings. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
3. Enjoy: Serve the ribs hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side and enjoy with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread.

Tips for Perfect Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs

• Choosing Ribs: Look for meaty ribs with even marbling for the best flavor and tenderness.
• Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, consider seasoning the ribs the night before and letting them marinate in the refrigerator.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your racks, cooking times may vary. Always check for tenderness; the meat should pull away from the bones easily.
• Leftovers: Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be reheated in the oven or on a grill to maintain their tenderness.

Conclusion

Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs are a delicious and satisfying dish that will impress family and friends alike. With minimal effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a barbecue feast right in your own kitchen. Whether for a summer cookout or a cozy dinner, these ribs are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. So fire up your oven and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering ribs!