Ingredients
Ribs
- 1 slab baby back ribs (2-1/2 – 3 lbs total)
Spice Rub
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Sauce
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (or more or less to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare: Line a half sheet pan with foil and set aside to prepare for the ribs.
- Trim: Peel the silver skin away from the back of the rib rack if present, then trim off any large pieces of excess fat, leaving some fat for flavor but removing very thick portions.
- Season: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper to make the spice rub. Sprinkle half of the mixture over the top of the ribs and rub to coat. Flip the ribs and apply the remaining rub evenly, then wrap the ribs in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to 24 hours to marinate.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C). Unwrap the ribs and place them directly onto the foil-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with another piece of foil and bake for 3 1/2 hours, ensuring the ribs cook slowly and become tender.
- Caramelize: Carefully remove the top foil layer and drain any excess liquid from the pan. Brush the ribs generously with BBQ sauce and return them to the oven uncovered. Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until the sauce is caramelized and glossy.
- Serve: Let the ribs rest for 15 minutes after baking to allow juices to redistribute. Slice between the bones and serve the ribs warm, enjoying the tender and flavorful result.
Notes
- If your rack of ribs is larger, you may need to increase the baking time slightly to ensure tenderness.
- Peeling off the silver skin ensures the ribs are more tender and the seasoning penetrates better.
- For spicier ribs, increase the cayenne pepper or add your favorite chili powder to the rub.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure ribs reach an internal temperature of around 190°F for optimal tenderness.
- Leftover ribs can be reheated gently in the oven to retain moisture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus at least 2 hours marinating time)
- Cook Time: 4 hours (3.5 hours baking covered + 30 minutes baking uncovered)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American