Description
Perfectly tender, juicy, and packed with barbecue flavor, these oven-cooked beef ribs will melt in your mouth. A no-grill-required method for a hassle-free yet delicious meal!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 lbs beef ribs (short ribs or back ribs)
- 2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ribs: Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C). Remove the membrane on the back of the ribs using a knife and a paper towel for grip. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
- Season the Ribs: In a bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Generously rub this mixture all over the ribs.
- Arrange in Pan: Place the ribs meat-side up on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cover tightly with another layer of foil to seal in moisture.
- Slow Cook: Bake in the oven for 2.5–3 hours until the ribs are tender and the meat starts to pull away from the bone.
- Add Barbecue Sauce: Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Brush barbecue sauce on both sides of the ribs and return them to the oven, uncovered.
- Caramelize: Bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the sauce thickens and caramelizes. For extra caramelization, broil for 2–3 minutes while keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes. Slice between the bones and serve with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Removing the Membrane is Key: Always remove the tough membrane from the back of the ribs before seasoning. This step ensures the flavors penetrate the meat and results in more tender ribs. Use a knife to loosen the edge and a paper towel to grip and peel it off.
- Low and Slow for Tenderness: Cooking ribs at a low temperature (275°F/135°C) for a long time (2.5–3 hours) is essential for breaking down the connective tissues, making the meat tender and juicy.
- Add Sauce at the Right Time: Apply barbecue sauce during the last 10–15 minutes of cooking to prevent it from burning. This timing allows the sauce to caramelize and develop a sticky, flavorful crust.
- Prep Time: 15 min
- Cook Time: 3 hours 15 minutes