Introduction
Oven-baked BBQ ribs offer a perfect balance of tender meat and smoky flavor without the need for a grill. They are a comforting dish that brings the taste of classic barbecue into your kitchen with ease. The ribs become juicy, flavorful, and perfectly coated with sauce.
Cooking ribs in the oven ensures they cook evenly while remaining soft and succulent. This method allows you to control the seasoning and glaze, creating a dish that tastes restaurant-quality at home. You can adjust the spice level to suit your preference, making it ideal for family dinners and gatherings.
With the right technique, oven-baked ribs can achieve that slow-cooked tenderness with caramelized, sticky sauce that everyone loves. Whether you are preparing for a special occasion or a casual meal, this recipe is versatile and satisfying.
Ingredients Needed
Here is the complete list of ingredients for BBQ ribs along with their approximate calorie count:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Pork ribs | 2 lbs | 2000 |
| BBQ sauce | 1 cup | 190 |
| Brown sugar | 2 tbsp | 105 |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp | 4 |
| Onion powder | 1 tsp | 4 |
| Paprika | 1 tsp | 6 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 3 |
| Salt | ½ tsp | 0 |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp | 120 |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tbsp | 3 |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius). - Prepare the Ribs
Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs. Pat them dry with paper towels. - Season the Ribs
Rub olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika all over the ribs evenly. - Wrap Ribs in Foil
Place the ribs on a large sheet of aluminum foil. Wrap them tightly to seal in moisture. - Bake the Ribs
Place the wrapped ribs on a baking tray. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours until tender. - Prepare BBQ Sauce
While ribs are baking, mix BBQ sauce with brown sugar and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. - Glaze the Ribs
Remove ribs from the oven and carefully open the foil. Brush the ribs generously with the prepared BBQ sauce. - Bake Uncovered
Return the ribs to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 20-30 minutes to caramelize the sauce. - Rest Before Serving
Remove ribs from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
- Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce for deeper smoky flavor.
- Use honey or maple syrup instead of brown sugar for a sweeter glaze.
- Sprinkle crushed red pepper for a spicier kick.
- Marinate ribs overnight with dry rub for extra tenderness and flavor.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or baked potatoes for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information
Approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Protein | 40 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 20 grams |
| Fat | 45 grams |
| Fiber | 1 gram |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
Serving Suggestions
Oven-baked BBQ ribs pair perfectly with creamy coleslaw, baked beans, cornbread, or roasted vegetables. Serve them hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. They make a stunning centerpiece for family dinners, parties, or weekend cookouts.
Conclusion
Oven-baked BBQ ribs deliver tender, juicy meat coated in a sticky, flavorful sauce. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy restaurant-quality ribs at home.
Taking the time to properly season and slow-cook the ribs ensures maximum flavor and tenderness. Once you master this recipe, it will become a staple for gatherings and special occasions, impressing family and friends with every bite.
