Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Ingredients

For the Ribs

• 2 racks baby back ribs, about 4–5 pounds total
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons black pepper
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, optional

For the BBQ Glaze

• 1½ cups BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

1. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs using a paper towel for a better grip.
3. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

1. Rub both sides of the ribs with olive oil.
2. In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper.
3. Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the seasoning mixture.

Step 3: Bake

1. Place the ribs meat-side up on a foil-lined baking sheet.
2. Cover tightly with another sheet of aluminum foil, sealing the edges well.
3. Bake for 2½ to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bones.

Step 4: Make the BBQ Glaze

1. In a small saucepan, combine the BBQ sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and Dijon mustard.
2. Heat over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Finish the Ribs

1. Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully discard the top foil.
2. Brush a generous layer of BBQ glaze over the ribs.
3. Increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) or switch to the broiler.
4. Bake or broil for 8–10 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
5. Brush with another layer of BBQ sauce before serving if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Creamy coleslaw
• Baked beans
• Corn on the cob
• Macaroni and cheese
• Potato salad
• Garlic bread

Tips

• Let the ribs rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
• For extra smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the BBQ glaze.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat covered with foil in a 300°F (150°C) oven until warmed through to keep the ribs juicy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4–6