Description
These BBQ Baby Back Ribs are tender, juicy, and coated in a smoky homemade-style BBQ glaze. Slow-baked until tender and finished under the broiler or on the grill, they feature caramelized, sticky edges and irresistible BBQ flavor, perfect for a delicious main course.
Ingredients
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks baby back ribs, about 4–5 lbs total
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper, optional
For Finishing:
- 1½ cups BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp honey, optional
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to prepare for slow baking the ribs.
- Remove Membrane: Carefully loosen the thin membrane on the back of the ribs with a knife and pull it away using a paper towel to ensure tenderness.
- Prepare Ribs: Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then evenly coat both sides with yellow mustard and olive oil to help the dry rub adhere.
- Make Dry Rub: In a bowl, combine brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and optional cayenne pepper for a flavorful seasoning mix.
- Apply Rub: Generously coat the ribs on both sides with the prepared dry rub, massaging it into the meat for enhanced flavor.
- Wrap and Bake: Wrap each rack tightly in aluminum foil to trap moisture and place them on a baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 2½ to 3 hours until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bones.
- Unwrap and Sauce: Carefully unwrap the ribs and transfer them to a lined baking sheet or grill. Brush them generously with BBQ sauce mixed with honey if desired.
- Broil or Grill Finish: Broil the ribs for 2–4 minutes or grill over medium-high heat for 3–5 minutes until the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized, creating deliciously caramelized edges.
- Rest and Serve: Let the ribs rest for 5–10 minutes to redistribute juices. Then slice between the bones and serve hot for a mouthwatering meal.
Notes
- Removing the membrane is essential for tender and flavorful ribs.
- Keeping the ribs tightly wrapped during baking helps retain moisture for juicy meat.
- Add extra BBQ sauce just before serving for a saucier finish.
- For added smoky flavor, finish the ribs on an outdoor grill instead of broiling.
- Store leftover ribs refrigerated for up to 4 days safely.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Southern
