These Best Ever Baby Back Ribs are incredibly tender, flavorful, and packed with smoky, sweet, and spicy notes. Coated with a simple rub and slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce, these ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, either in the oven or on the grill. With a few easy steps, you’ll have fall-off-the-bone ribs that are perfect for summer cookouts, family dinners, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 2 racks of baby back ribs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite kind)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Start by removing the thin membrane from the back of the baby back ribs. This membrane can become tough during cooking and is best removed. To do this, use a knife to loosen one corner of the membrane, then use a paper towel to grip and peel it off the entire rack. Discard the membrane.
Step 2: Make the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. This rub will add tons of flavor and create a nice crust on the ribs.
Step 3: Apply the Rub
Generously coat both sides of the baby back ribs with the dry rub, massaging it into the meat to ensure an even coating. Once seasoned, wrap each rack of ribs in aluminum foil, sealing them tightly. Let the ribs rest for at least 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate for up to 24 hours to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 4: Slow Cook the Ribs (Oven Method)
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
Cook the Ribs
Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and cook in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on the thickness of the ribs. The ribs are done when they are tender and the meat starts pulling away from the bones.
Step 5: Prepare the BBQ Sauce
While the ribs are cooking, mix the BBQ sauce with the apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. This combination will give the sauce a nice tang and help balance the sweetness. Set the sauce aside.
Step 6: Grill or Broil the Ribs
Grill Method
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F/190°C). Carefully unwrap the ribs and place them directly on the grill grates. Brush the ribs with the BBQ sauce mixture and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, turning frequently and brushing more sauce as they cook. This will give the ribs a nice caramelized crust.
Broil Method
If you don’t have access to a grill, you can finish the ribs under the broiler. Set your oven to broil, unwrap the ribs, and place them on a baking sheet. Brush with BBQ sauce and broil for 3-5 minutes per side, or until the sauce is caramelized and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once the ribs are done and perfectly caramelized, remove them from the grill or oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Cooking Notes:
- Removing the Membrane: Don’t skip this step! Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs ensures that they’ll be tender and easy to eat.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Cooking the ribs slowly at a low temperature ensures that they become tender and juicy. Rushing this step may result in tougher meat.
- BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce, or make your own if you prefer. The apple cider vinegar adds a nice tangy kick to balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Variations:
1. Spicy Honey Ribs
For a sweet and spicy twist, add 2 tablespoons of honey to the BBQ sauce mixture and increase the cayenne pepper in the rub for a bit more heat.
2. Garlic and Herb Ribs
For a different flavor profile, swap out the smoked paprika for fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Add extra garlic powder or minced garlic to the rub for a more savory taste.
3. Mustard BBQ Ribs
If you love mustard-based BBQ sauces, swap out the traditional sauce with a mustard-based version. The tanginess of mustard pairs beautifully with the smoky rub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I cook the ribs on the grill from start to finish?
A: Yes, you can cook the ribs on the grill from start to finish using indirect heat. Set your grill to low heat (around 275°F), wrap the ribs in foil, and cook for 2.5 to 3 hours. After that, remove the foil and finish the ribs over direct heat while basting with BBQ sauce.
Q: Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
A: Yes, spare ribs can be used, but they tend to be larger and fattier than baby back ribs. Adjust the cooking time to about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the size.
Q: How do I know when the ribs are done?
A: The ribs are done when the meat is tender and starts to pull away from the bones. You can also test the ribs by inserting a toothpick into the meat—it should slide in easily without resistance.
Q: Can I make the ribs ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can cook the ribs in the oven ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat them on the grill or under the broiler while brushing with BBQ sauce.
These Best Ever Baby Back Ribs are everything you want in a rib dish—tender, flavorful, and perfectly caramelized with your favorite BBQ sauce. The combination of the smoky, sweet rub and the tangy sauce makes these ribs an irresistible option for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling for a summer BBQ or preparing them in the oven for a cozy family dinner, these ribs will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious, melt-in-your-mouth ribs that everyone will rave about
