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Fall-Off-the-Bone Oven-Baked Spare Ribs

Experience tender, juicy ribs that fall off the bone, coated in a savory dry rub and rich homemade barbecue sauce, perfect for family gatherings or any special occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 550
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ribs
  • 2 racks pork spare rib racks (about 6-7 lb total) Look for ribs with good marbling and a nice pink color.
  • 4.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 1.5 tsp black pepper
  • 4 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp smoked paprika Look for a brand that guarantees authentic smoky flavor.
  • 1 tbsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dry mustard
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper Adjust according to your heat tolerance.
For the BBQ Sauce
  • 1 cup ketchup Go for quality, organic brands if you can.
  • 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tbsp molasses Or maple syrup for a lighter flavor.
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
  2. Flip the ribs bone-side up and peel off the thin membrane. Use a butter knife to loosen a corner, then grip with a paper towel and pull off in one sheet.
  3. In a small bowl, combine all dry rub ingredients: salt, pepper, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dry mustard, and cayenne pepper.
  4. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. Coat them generously with the rub, pressing it firmly into the meat.
  5. Place the racks meat-side up on a large foil-lined rimmed baking sheet. Cover with a second sheet of foil, crimping the edges to seal.
Cooking
  1. Bake for 2 hours 45 minutes to 3 hours 15 minutes.
  2. In the meantime, combine all BBQ sauce ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low and cook for 8 to 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  3. Remove the foil cover and switch the oven to broil on high. Brush the ribs generously with BBQ sauce and broil for 2 to 4 minutes until bubbling and caramelized.
  4. Rest the ribs uncovered for 10 minutes before slicing between the bones.

Notes

These ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Prepare the rub and BBQ sauce in advance to save time.