Get ready for some mouth-watering beef back ribs! This easy oven recipe helps you create tender, juicy ribs without fuss. Just season them, pop them in the oven, and let them do their thing!
There’s nothing quite like the smell of beef ribs cooking—it makes the whole house feel cozy! I love how easy they are to make, perfect for a lazy Sunday dinner or a fun get-together. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Back Ribs: These ribs are flavorful and have more meat than other types. If you can’t find them, short ribs or spare ribs can work, though they might require slight adjustments in cooking time.
Spices: The seasoning blend creates a lovely depth of flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or chili powder alone can add some kick. Feel free to adjust toppings to your taste or leave out ingredients like chili powder for a milder dish.
Barbecue Sauce: Your favorite store-bought sauce will work perfectly! For a homemade touch, mix ketchup with some brown sugar, vinegar, and spices. Make it your own by adding honey or mustard for sweetness or tang.
How Do You Remove the Membrane for Tender Ribs?
Removing the membrane is crucial for tender ribs. It can be tough and prevents seasoning from fully penetrating the meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sharp knife to slide under one edge of the membrane on the bone side of the ribs.
- Once you’ve lifted it, grab it with a paper towel for better grip, and gently pull it off in one go.
- Make sure to remove all of it; this will help the ribs cook evenly and become soft.
Taking the time for this step really pays off in flavor and tenderness! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Easy Oven Beef Back Ribs Recipe
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef back ribs
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 3 hours for baking at a low temperature, and an extra 15-20 minutes for caramelizing the sauce on top. In total, you’ll need about 3 hours and 35 minutes to enjoy delicious beef back ribs.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Baking Sheet:
Start by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). While the oven is warming up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. This makes cleanup a breeze later!
2. Remove the Membrane:
For tender ribs, it’s important to remove the tough membrane from the back. Take a sharp knife and slide it under one end of the membrane. Grab it with a paper towel and gently pull it off. This will help your ribs cook evenly and become more flavorful!
3. Mix the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and chili powder (if using). Blend them well to get an even mix. This seasoning will add great flavor to your ribs!
4. Season the Ribs:
Rub the spice mixture all over the beef ribs, coating them evenly on both sides. Make sure to get into all the little crevices for maximum flavor!
5. Prepare for Baking:
Place the seasoned ribs meat side up on your prepared baking sheet. Cover them tightly with another piece of aluminum foil—this will keep them moist while they cook.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Put the ribs into the preheated oven and bake for about 3 hours. They’re done when they’re tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bones. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
7. Apply Barbecue Sauce:
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the top foil. Brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure to cover them well for extra flavor.
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Now, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake the ribs uncovered for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This step will caramelize the sauce, giving your ribs a delightful glaze.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
When ready, take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Cut between the bones to separate the ribs, and serve warm with extra barbecue sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy your tender, flavorful beef back ribs!
FAQ About Easy Oven Beef Back Ribs
Can I Use Frozen Ribs?
Yes, you can use frozen ribs, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best results. Cooking frozen ribs directly can result in uneven cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Barbecue Sauce?
If you don’t have barbecue sauce, try a mix of ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, and spices like paprika and mustard for a homemade alternative. You can also use a store-bought wing sauce or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor!
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil to keep them moist.
Can I Cook Ribs on a Higher Temperature?
While this low and slow method ensures tenderness, you can cook the ribs at a higher temperature, around 300°F (150°C), for a shorter time (about 2.5 hours). Just be sure to watch them closely to prevent drying out!
