Sticky Oven-Baked BBQ Ribs

Recipe at a Glance

Ingredients

• 2 racks baby back pork ribs, about 5 lb total
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne, optional
• 1 1/2 cups barbecue sauce, divided
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil.
2. Remove the thin membrane from the bone side of the ribs by loosening an edge with a knife and pulling it away with a paper towel.
3. Mix brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and cayenne. Rub the mixture over both sides of the ribs.
4. Place ribs meaty side up on the baking sheet. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 2 1/2 hours.
5. Stir 1 cup barbecue sauce with vinegar and honey. Carefully uncover the ribs and brush generously with the sauce.
6. Return to the oven uncovered for 20 minutes. Brush again, then increase oven to 425°F and roast 10-15 minutes until glossy and caramelized.
7. For lightly charred edges, broil for 1-3 minutes while watching closely.
8. Rest 10 minutes before slicing between the bones. Serve with remaining barbecue sauce.

Tips for the Best Results

• Removing the membrane improves tenderness and lets seasoning penetrate the meat.
• Keep the ribs covered during the long bake so steam helps tenderize them.
• Use your favorite thick barbecue sauce, but balance very sweet sauces with a little vinegar.
• Ribs are ready when the meat has pulled back from the bone ends and a rack bends easily when lifted.

What to Serve With It

• Cornbread
• Coleslaw
• Grilled corn
• Baked beans or potato salad

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate cooked ribs for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 300°F oven with a spoonful of barbecue sauce until hot. Wrapped ribs can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Notes

Approximately 610 calories per serving. Nutrition is an estimate and will vary with brands, portion size, cooking method, and optional toppings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is designed for home cooks who want familiar American comfort food with dependable results. The ingredients are easy to find, the method is straightforward, and the finished dish is attractive enough for a family dinner, weekend gathering, or special occasion.