Here’s a mouthwatering, foolproof recipe for Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender, juicy, and slathered in a sticky, caramelized barbecue glaze — all without the need for a grill or smoker.
🍖 Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs
🕒 Total Time: 3 hours (mostly hands-off)
Serves: 4 people
Perfect for: Family dinners, weekend cookouts, or game day.
🧂 Ingredients
For the Ribs:
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2 racks baby back pork ribs (about 4 lbs)
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2 tbsp brown sugar
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1 tbsp paprika
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp black pepper
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1 tsp salt
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½ tsp cayenne pepper or chili powder (optional, for heat)
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1 tbsp olive oil or mustard (to help rub stick)
For the BBQ Sauce (or use your favorite bottled sauce):
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1 cup ketchup
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¼ cup apple cider vinegar
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tbsp yellow mustard
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp garlic powder
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Optional: A few dashes of hot sauce
🔪 Instructions
1. Prep the Ribs
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Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
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Remove the silver skin (membrane) from the back of the ribs: slide a knife under it and peel it off using a paper towel for grip.
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Rub ribs lightly with olive oil or mustard.
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Mix all dry rub spices and coat ribs generously on both sides.
2. Wrap and Bake
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Place each rack on a large sheet of foil (double layer recommended).
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Wrap tightly in foil and place on a baking sheet.
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Bake for 2.5 hours, or until ribs are very tender when poked with a fork.
3. Make the BBQ Sauce (if homemade)
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In a saucepan over medium heat, combine all sauce ingredients.
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Simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
4. Finish Under the Broiler
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Carefully unwrap ribs and discard excess juices.
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Brush generously with BBQ sauce.
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Place ribs under the broiler (or in a 450°F oven) for 5–7 minutes, until sauce bubbles and caramelizes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
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Serve with: coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, mac & cheese, or grilled corn.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or green onion, if desired.
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Extra sauce on the side is always a win!
🔁 Variations
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Sticky Asian Ribs: Swap BBQ sauce with a mix of hoisin, soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
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Smokier Flavor: Add ½ tsp liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.