How to Make Tender Oven-Baked Ribs
These oven-baked ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, juicy, and packed with flavor—no grill required. Low and slow heat is the secret to ribs that melt in your mouth every time.
These oven-baked ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender, incredibly juicy, and bursting with flavor—no grill required. Cooking them low and slow is the secret to achieving ribs that melt in your mouth every single time.
🕒 Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2½–3 hours
Total Time: ~3 hours
Servings: 4
🛒 Ingredients
1 rack pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon brown sugar
½ teaspoon chili powder (optional)
1 cup BBQ sauce (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ribs
Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for tenderness.
Pat ribs dry and season generously on both sides.
Step 2: Wrap & Bake
Wrap ribs tightly in aluminum foil.
Place on a baking sheet and bake for 2½–3 hours, until meat is very tender.
Step 3: Sauce & Finish
Unwrap ribs carefully. Brush with BBQ sauce if using.
Increase oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes until caramelized.
⭐ Pro Tips for Extra Tender Ribs
Low temperature = tender ribs
Keep ribs tightly wrapped to trap moisture
Let ribs rest 10 minutes before slicing
Add a splash of apple juice or broth inside the foil for extra juiciness
🍽️ What to Serve With
Coleslaw
Cornbread
Baked beans
Roasted potatoes