There's nothing quite like the aroma of slow-cooked ribs wafting through your home. Our Traditional Oven-Roasted Ribs are perfect for any gathering, offering tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a sticky, caramelized barbecue glaze. Get ready to dazzle your guests with these foolproof ribs!
Pork ribs are the star of the show, and their natural juiciness makes them perfect for roasting. The spice rub adds depth — brown sugar caramelizes for sweetness, while smoked paprika imparts a subtle smokiness. Garlic powder and onion powder provide savory notes, complemented by a touch of ground black pepper for warmth. A pinch of salt enhances all these flavors. Apple cider vinegar tenderizes the meat and adds a slight tang. Finally, the barbecue sauce brings everything together with its sweet and tangy glaze.
These ribs pair beautifully with creamy coleslaw or buttery cornbread. A side of baked beans or roasted vegetables also complements the rich flavors. For a refreshing contrast, serve with a crisp, cold apple cider or a light beer.
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) to get things started. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, and salt. This will be your spice rub, which adds a ton of flavor to the ribs.
Next, take your pork ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick better and creates a nice crust. Rub the spice mixture generously over both sides of the ribs, ensuring they're well coated.
Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and place the ribs bone side down. Pour the apple cider vinegar into the bottom of the baking sheet — this will keep the ribs tender and juicy as they roast. Cover the ribs tightly with another sheet of foil to trap in the moisture.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and let the ribs roast for 2.5 to 3 hours. You want them to be tender, with the meat easily pulling away from the bones.
Once the ribs are done, remove them from the oven and take off the top layer of foil. Brush the ribs generously on both sides with your favorite barbecue sauce. Now, increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and pop the ribs back in, uncovered, for 15-20 minutes. This will caramelize the sauce, making it sticky and irresistible.
Finally, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is succulent and flavorful.