Lunch & Dinner

Oven Barbecue Ribs Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Name: Oven Barbecue Ribs Recipe – Easy Family Meal
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 6
Ingredients: 3 pounds baby back ribs; 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced; 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika; 3/4 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon packed brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon smoked chili powder; 1/4 cup tomato ketchup; 1/2 cup chili sauce; 1/2 cup classic barbecue sauce

Crystal Ivers July 29, 2025

Servings: 6 Total Time: 2 hrs 15 mins Difficulty: Intermediate

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Ah, the delightful aroma of barbecue ribs wafting through the air—who can resist? If there’s one dish that brings people together around a table (or outdoor grill), it’s ribs.

Sure, you could spend all day at a smoky barbecue joint, but nothing beats the satisfaction of making these at home, especially in the oven. Trust me; once you try my oven barbecue ribs recipe, you’ll never settle for takeout again.

Today, I want to share with you my journey of crafting the perfect oven barbecue ribs. But first, let’s talk about what can elevate a barbecue meal.

The pasta salad’s zesty flavors cut through the rich meat, creating a fantastic balance on your plate. Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, leaving you free to bask in the glory of your culinary achievements. So, let’s dive into this flavorful adventure!

What is Oven Barbecue Ribs Recipe?

The oven barbecue ribs recipe is all about achieving that perfect tenderness and smoky flavor without needing a grill. Using the oven allows the ribs to be slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring that every bite is juicy and full of flavor.

My method combines a spice rub and a sweet, tangy barbecue sauce, creating an unforgettable taste experience.

The Ingredients

To create these mouthwatering ribs, you’ll need a selection of quality ingredients. Here’s the list:

3 pounds baby back ribs (2 racks)
4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
2 yellow onions, thinly sliced

Spice Rub (Optional)

½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
¾ teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¾ teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon packed brown sugar
½ teaspoon smoked chili powder

BBQ Sauce

¼ cup tomato ketchup
½ cup chili sauce (or extra BBQ sauce)
½ cup classic barbecue sauce

How to Make Oven Barbecue Ribs

Let me give you a brief introduction before we dive into the nitty-gritty steps. The beauty of making oven barbecue ribs lies in the methodical layering of flavors. From the spice rub to the barbecue sauce, each component plays a vital role. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s cook these mouthwatering ribs!

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (150 degrees Celsius). This lower temperature allows the ribs to cook slowly, making them incredibly tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Ribs

After washing and drying the ribs, remove the silver skin from the back. This step is crucial; it prevents the ribs from being tough. Use a paper towel to get a good grip on it. Once that’s done, cut the ribs into manageable sections if your racks are too long.

Step 3: Make the Spice Rub

In a bowl, combine the kosher salt, smoked paprika, onion powder, ground cumin, black pepper, garlic powder, brown sugar, and smoked chili powder. Mix well to combine.

Step 4: Apply the Spice Rub

Generously coat the ribs with the spice rub. Don’t hold back! This will form a delicious crust when cooked. Make sure to rub it on both sides.

Step 5: Prepare the Baking Dish

In a large baking dish, layer the bottom with sliced onions and garlic. This not only adds flavor but also serves as a bed for the ribs.

Step 6: Arrange the Ribs

Place the ribs on top of your onion and garlic bed. If there’s any leftover spice rub, sprinkle it over the top for extra flavor.

Step 7: Cover and Bake

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap the moisture. Bake in your preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours. The slow cooking is what helps break down the tough collagen, resulting in fall-off-the-bone tenderness.

Step 8: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

While the ribs are cooking, let’s whip up that BBQ sauce. In a bowl, combine the ketchup, chili sauce, and classic barbecue sauce. Stir well until fully blended.

Step 9: Glaze and Broil

Once the ribs are tender, remove the foil and brush on a generous layer of the barbecue sauce. Switch your oven to broil and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the sauce caramelizes and bubbles. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!

Step 10: Serve

Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute. Slice between the bones, serve with extra sauce, and enjoy every sinful bite!

Notes: Tips for Success

Choose Quality Ribs: Select well-marbled baby back ribs for the best results.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions enhance the overall flavor significantly.
Don’t Rush: Low and slow cooking creates more tender meat.
Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to mix your favorite barbecue sauces for a unique flavor profile.
Resting is Key: Allow the ribs to sit after cooking for optimal juiciness.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which I doubt, but just in case), allow the ribs to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge. Reheat in the oven to retain moisture, or microwave covered on a low setting.

Nutrition Information

Each serving of oven barbecue ribs contains:

Calories: Approximately 300
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 15g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on ingredient choices.

Serving Suggestions

Coleslaw with a Tangy Dressing
Serving slaw adds a crunchy texture and balances the richness of the ribs.
Corn on the Cob
Sweet, buttery corn complements the savory ribs perfectly.
Baked Beans
Their smoky sweetness pairs beautifully with the meat.
Garlic Bread
A side of warm garlic bread is always a hit, perfect for mopping up any sauce.
Pickle Chips
The sharpness of pickles elevates the flavor profile, cutting through the richness of the dish.

What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Oven Barbecue Ribs Recipe?

St. Louis Ribs
These are larger and meatier, providing a hearty alternative to baby back ribs. They may take a bit longer to cook.
Pork Spare Ribs
A budget-friendly option, these come with more fat and flavor but require more cooking time to achieve tenderness.
Beef Ribs
For something different, beef ribs can be used, and they bring a robust flavor profile that pairs exceptionally well with barbecue sauce.
Turkey Ribs
A leaner choice, turkey ribs offer a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. They will need a shorter cooking time.
Plant-Based Ribs
If you’re after a meatless option, there are some great plant-based rib substitutes on the market that have come a long way in mimicking traditional ribs.

Conclusion

Embarking on this oven barbecue ribs recipe was a rewarding experience, from the spice rub preparation to that moment when I took the first succulent bite. If I’ve learned anything in my kitchen journey, it’s that simple ingredients combined thoughtfully can create something truly extraordinary.

I hope you feel inspired to try this recipe for yourself. It’s more than just a culinary creation; it’s a gateway to inviting friends and family around the table—sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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Print Recipe

Oven Barbecue Ribs Recipe – Easy Family Meal

Author: Crystal Ivers Cuisine: American Courses: Lunch & Dinner

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 2 hrs Total Time 2 hrs 15 mins

Servings: 6 Calories: 300 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

Ah, the delightful aroma of barbecue ribs wafting through the air—who can resist? If there’s one dish that brings people together around a table (or outdoor grill), it’s ribs.