Here is your full recipe profile for Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs, complete with each requested section and the wide line removed:
Introduction
Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs are the ultimate comfort food for meat lovers — juicy, fall-off-the-bone tender, and coated with a sticky-sweet, smoky barbecue glaze. Baking ribs in the oven allows you to achieve perfect tenderness without the need for a grill or smoker, making this recipe a go-to for weeknight meals, game days, or weekend feasts. With a bold dry rub and caramelized BBQ finish, these ribs bring Southern flavor straight to your kitchen.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Ribs are deeply embedded in American culinary tradition, particularly in Southern barbecue culture. Baby back ribs — cut from the top of the ribcage near the spine — are prized for their tenderness and shorter cook time. While open-flame grilling is iconic, oven-baked ribs have gained popularity for their convenience and consistent results, especially in homes without access to outdoor grills. This recipe blends the Tex-Mex influence of ancho chile powder with traditional BBQ spices, creating a dish that celebrates regional flavors with wide appeal.
Ingredients Quantity
For the Dry Rub:
- ½ cup ancho chile powder
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons salt
- 2 tablespoons black pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For the Ribs:
- 2 racks baby back ribs (about 4–5 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for coating)
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional, for extra gloss and sweetness)
Optional Additions
- Liquid smoke for deeper smoky flavor in the glaze
- Chili flakes or hot sauce in the BBQ glaze for a kick
- Fresh lime juice brushed on after baking for brightness
- Apple cider vinegar added to the glaze for tang
- Pineapple juice or peach preserves for a fruity twist
Tips for Success
- Remove the membrane on the back of the ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor absorption.
- Marinate with the dry rub overnight if possible, for deeper flavor.
- Wrap ribs in foil during baking to lock in moisture and steam them to tenderness.
- Uncover during the final baking phase to caramelize the glaze.
- Let ribs rest after baking before slicing to retain juices.
- Cut between the bones using a sharp knife for clean presentation.
Instructions
1. Prepare the Ribs:
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs by loosening it with a knife and peeling it away.
- Pat ribs dry with paper towels and rub with olive oil.
2. Apply the Dry Rub:
- Mix together all dry rub ingredients in a bowl.
- Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the spice mix, pressing it into the meat.
3. Bake Covered:
- Wrap each rack of ribs tightly in aluminum foil.
- Place on a baking sheet, bone side down, and bake for 2½ to 3 hours until very tender.
4. Add Glaze and Broil:
- Unwrap the ribs and brush with BBQ sauce + honey/maple syrup, if using.
- Return to the oven uncovered and broil for 3–5 minutes, or bake at 425°F (220°C) for 10–15 minutes until caramelized.
5. Rest and Serve:
- Let rest for 10 minutes, then slice between the bones.
- Serve warm with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Description
These Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs are smoky, sweet, and irresistibly tender. The ancho chile dry rub creates a deep, earthy spice base, while the sugars caramelize into a flavorful crust. The final glaze is sticky and glossy, clinging to the meat with each juicy bite. The ribs pull away from the bone with minimal effort, making them just as satisfying as slow-smoked versions — without the hassle.
Nutritional Information (Per 6 oz serving, approx. 6 servings)
- Calories: ~480 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Sugar: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 750mg
Note: Nutritional values vary depending on BBQ sauce used and portion size.
Conclusion
This recipe for Baked BBQ Baby Back Ribs offers the best of both worlds: the depth and richness of Southern BBQ and the convenience of oven baking. It’s approachable enough for beginners yet flavorful enough to impress at a cookout or family dinner. These ribs prove that you don’t need a smoker to achieve juicy, bold barbecue at home.
Recommendation
Serve with:
- Creamy potato salad, coleslaw, or cornbread
- Grilled veggies or baked beans for a full BBQ platter
- Sweet iced tea, lemonade, or cold beer
Perfect for:
- Game day, Father’s Day, 4th of July, or Sunday supper
- Freezing or meal prepping — they reheat beautifully!
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To make this dish more mindful:
- Trim excess fat from ribs before baking.
- Use a reduced-sugar BBQ sauce or make your own with tomato paste, vinegar, and spices.
- Serve with lighter sides like grilled zucchini or cabbage slaw.
- Portion sensibly — ribs are rich, so enjoy with balance.
Even when indulging in a hearty meal like ribs, thoughtful choices can make it a flavorful and feel-good experience.
Would you like a homemade BBQ sauce recipe to pair with these ribs?