These Oven-Baked Tender Ribs offer a perfect balance of deep smoky flavor, a sticky-sweet glaze, and meat so tender it nearly falls off the bone. Prepared with a flavorful dry rub and slowly baked at a low temperature, these ribs are then finished under the broiler for a caramelized crust that mimics the best of outdoor barbecue—without needing a grill. Ideal for Sunday dinners, game day spreads, or casual family gatherings, this recipe is accessible yet indulgent, bringing restaurant-quality ribs to your home oven with ease.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4–5 lb total)

• 2 Tbsp brown sugar

• 1 Tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp chili powder (optional for heat)

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• ¼ cup water

• ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)

Directions

• Preheat oven to 275 °F (135 °C).

• Mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and chili powder in a small bowl to make the rub.

• Remove silver skin from the back of ribs and pat dry with paper towels.

• Rub seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.

• Place ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet, bone side down.

• Whisk together apple cider vinegar and water, then pour over ribs.

• Cover ribs tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 2½–3 hours, until meat is tender and nearly falling off the bone.

• Remove foil, brush both sides with BBQ sauce, and switch to broiler setting.

• Broil 2–3 minutes until sauce is bubbling and slightly charred—watch closely to avoid burning.

• Let the ribs rest 5 minutes, then slice between the bones and serve.

Nutrients (Per Serving, approx.—serves 4)

• Calories: 650 kcal

• Carbohydrates: 40 g

• Protein: 45 g

• Fat: 40 g

• Saturated Fat: 15 g

• Fiber: 1 g

• Sugar: 30 g

• Sodium: 820 mg

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This rib recipe captures the essence of slow-cooked barbecue without requiring a smoker or grill. What makes it special is the method: a low-and-slow oven bake that gently breaks down the meat until it becomes incredibly tender, followed by a blast of high heat under the broiler to create that crave-worthy, caramelized crust. The use of a dry rub allows layers of flavor to permeate the meat, while the finishing BBQ glaze adds a sticky, finger-licking coating that elevates the ribs to a restaurant-worthy level. It’s a recipe that delivers big results with simple steps, making it approachable for even beginner home cooks.

The Benefits of the Ingredients

The components of this recipe go beyond flavor—they bring health benefits and balance to the dish as well. Baby back ribs are a great source of protein, iron, and zinc, supporting muscle function and immune health. The dry rub is crafted from common pantry spices like smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, all of which are rich in antioxidants and bring depth without added fat. Smoked paprika, in particular, adds a complex, smoky element that emulates outdoor cooking. Brown sugar introduces a touch of sweetness that helps the rub caramelize beautifully, enhancing both texture and taste. Apple cider vinegar tenderizes the meat while contributing a subtle tang that balances the sweet and savory components. It also offers digestive benefits and a lower glycemic impact compared to refined vinegar. Water is used to steam the ribs during baking, keeping them moist and tender. The BBQ sauce brings everything together, adding sweetness, spice, and tang in every bite. Choosing a high-quality or homemade BBQ sauce can reduce artificial ingredients and sugar content while still delivering bold flavor.

Cooking Tips for Success

To get the best results, start by removing the silver skin from the ribs. This thin membrane on the back side of the ribs can become tough and chewy when cooked. Removing it allows for better flavor penetration and a more enjoyable texture. Be generous with your dry rub—it’s the backbone of the ribs’ flavor and helps develop a rich outer crust. When covering the ribs in foil, seal them tightly to trap steam; this gentle steaming process is key to achieving that fall-off-the-bone tenderness. Patience is also important—don’t be tempted to rush the bake time. The low temperature ensures the meat cooks evenly without drying out. When broiling, keep a close eye on the ribs, as the sugar in the BBQ sauce can burn quickly. A short, high-heat blast is all that’s needed to achieve that glossy, charred finish. Lastly, let the ribs rest before slicing. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions for a Complete Meal

These oven-baked ribs pair well with a variety of side dishes, making them incredibly versatile for both casual and formal dining. For a classic BBQ-style meal, serve them alongside coleslaw, baked beans, and cornbread. A tangy vinegar-based slaw can help cut through the richness of the meat, while baked beans add a sweet and hearty contrast. If you prefer a lighter spread, grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad offer balance and color. Corn on the cob, macaroni salad, or even roasted sweet potatoes are great additions for a filling comfort-food feast. For drinks, these ribs go well with bold beverages like iced tea, craft beer, or a rich red wine such as Zinfandel or Syrah. When entertaining, consider serving the ribs pre-sliced on a large platter with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs or scallions for a touch of freshness and color. If you have leftovers, the meat can be shredded and used in sandwiches, tacos, or added to rice bowls—giving this dish a delicious second life.

Conclusion

These Oven-Baked Tender Ribs bring the best of backyard barbecue into your kitchen, no matter the season or your experience level. With a thoughtfully crafted dry rub, a simple cooking process, and a deliciously sticky finish, this recipe proves that you don’t need fancy equipment to achieve fall-off-the-bone ribs. The blend of flavors—smoky, sweet, savory, and tangy—hits all the right notes and creates a dish that feels both comforting and indulgent. From the first slice to the last saucy bite, these ribs deliver satisfaction and flavor that your family and guests will rave about. Whether you’re making them for a laid-back Sunday meal or impressing friends at a dinner party, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your rotation. With the right balance of seasoning, moisture, and finishing touches, oven-baked ribs can be every bit as memorable as those from a grill—and maybe even better.