Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs

Introduction: Get ready to indulge in a mouthwatering treat with our Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs recipe! These succulent ribs are slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring that every bite is bursting with flavor. The combination of a flavorful dry rub and a tangy BBQ sauce will have your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, a family dinner, or just craving some delicious comfort food, these ribs are sure to please. Follow our step-by-step guide to create a finger-licking dish that will leave everyone asking for more.

Ingredients:

For the Dry Rub:

• 2 racks of baby back ribs
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 1 cup ketchup
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons molasses
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon mustard
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ribs:
   • Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by loosening the membrane with a knife or a fork, then grabbing it with a paper towel and pulling it off.
2. Dry Rub:
   • In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients – brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt.
   • Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they are well-coated.
   • Wrap the ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best flavor.
3. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
4. Baking the Ribs:
   • Place the seasoned ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil.
   • Cover the ribs with another sheet of foil and crimp the edges to create a sealed packet. This will help the ribs cook in their own juices.
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
5. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
   • While the ribs are baking, mix all the BBQ sauce ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
   • Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
6. Grill or Broil (Optional):
   • If you want a smoky finish, preheat your grill or broiler.
   • Transfer the baked ribs to the grill or under the broiler for a few minutes on each side to caramelize the sauce and give them a slight char. Be careful not to burn them.
7. Serve:
   • Once your Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs are perfectly cooked and glazed, remove them from the heat.
   • Cut between the ribs to separate them and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Enjoy your homemade Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs with all the smoky, sweet, and savory flavors that make them a real crowd-pleaser!