Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a soul-satisfying, finger-licking delight, look no further than this Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe. It’s a beautiful celebration of tender, juicy ribs smothered in a perfectly balanced, tangy, sweet, and smoky BBQ sauce made from scratch. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a weekend gathering, or just because you deserve a treat, these ribs promise to deliver that comforting warmth and deep, rich flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Whipping up this Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe is easier than you might think, thanks to a handful of straightforward yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the spices build a robust dry rub, the apple cider vinegar adds tang to the sauce, and the honey brings in a lovely touch of natural sweetness that balances everything out.

• 2 racks of baby back ribs (about 3-4 pounds): The star ingredient offering tender, juicy meat perfect for slow cooking.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a deep molasses sweetness to the dry rub and sauce.
• 1 tablespoon paprika: Brings smoky warmth and vibrant color to your ribs.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder: Provides a savory depth that complements the meat beautifully.
• 1 tablespoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and enhances the overall complexity.
• 1 teaspoon ground mustard: Offers a slight tang that works harmoniously in the rub and sauce.
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Infuses an earthy, slightly nutty character to the ribs.
• 1 teaspoon chili powder: Introduces gentle heat and rich flavor complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): For those who want a spicy kick to wake up their taste buds.
• 1 cup ketchup: The tomato base for your homemade BBQ sauce, rich and tangy.
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Provides a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Sweetens the BBQ sauce perfectly without overpowering.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a subtle tang.
• 1 tablespoon mustard: Lifts the BBQ sauce with a little sharpness and bite.
• 1 tablespoon honey: Brings a silky sweetness that balances all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky aroma and taste to the sauce for a true BBQ feel.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Continues the garlicky goodness in the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Keeps the flavor layers balanced and rich.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Final seasoning touch to elevate the sauce.

How to Make Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs

Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C) and lining a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. This step sets the stage for slow roasting, which is key to achieving that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. The foil will also make cleanup a breeze, which is always a win!

Step 2: Remove the Silver Skin

Using a paper towel to grip firmly, gently peel off the silver skin, which is the thin membrane on the back of the ribs. This might sound like a small detail, but removing it ensures your ribs won’t be tough or chewy, allowing the seasoning to penetrate beautifully.

Step 3: Season the Ribs

Pat the ribs dry with paper towels — this helps the dry rub stick better. Then, season generously with salt and black pepper on both sides. This simple step lays the foundational flavor that works perfectly with the spices to come next.

Step 4: Make the Dry Rub

Combine all the dry rub ingredients in a small bowl: brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground mustard, cumin, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), black pepper, and salt. This blend packs in sweet, smoky, and spicy notes that play so well with pork.

Step 5: Apply the Dry Rub

Massage the dry rub thoroughly all over the ribs, making sure every inch is covered. Don’t rush this; the pressing action helps the spices adhere and start infusing the meat. Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 20 to 30 minutes — this pause lets the flavors begin to meld.

Step 6: Cook the Ribs (Slow Roast Method)

Place the ribs meat-side up on the prepared baking sheet and cover tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the ribs are wonderfully tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. This slow and low approach is what creates fall-off-the-bone magic.

Step 7: Prepare the BBQ Sauce

While the ribs roast, combine your ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, honey, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a saucepan over medium heat. Let it simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes until thickened and luscious. Adjust seasoning to your taste.

Step 8: Finish the Ribs on the Grill

Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Once the ribs come out of the oven, remove the foil and generously brush the ribs with your homemade BBQ sauce. Grill the ribs, basting with more sauce, for 5–7 minutes on each side. This final step creates a caramelized, slightly charred coating that’s pure BBQ bliss.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes after grilling to let the juices redistribute. Then slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping. Trust me, this is where all your hard work shines to the fullest.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro add a pop of green and a brightness that cuts through the rich ribs effortlessly. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for a little crunch and visual interest.

Side Dishes

Classic pairings like creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or crispy baked potatoes complement the ribs with contrasting textures and flavors. A simple cucumber salad or pickled veggies can also refresh your palate between bites.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual crowd-pleaser, serve the ribs family-style on a large wooden board lined with parchment paper, accompanied by small bowls of BBQ sauce and your favorite sides. Alternatively, assemble slider sandwiches using pulled rib meat and coleslaw for a playful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover ribs tightly in aluminum foil or airtight containers and refrigerate. They will stay flavorful and moist for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day treat.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked ribs and sauce separately in freezer-safe bags or containers. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftover ribs gently in a low oven (around 275°F / 135°C), covered with foil to keep them moist. Alternatively, warm them briefly on the grill with a brush of extra BBQ sauce to revive that caramelized, finger-licking goodness.

FAQs

Can I use a different cut of ribs for this recipe?

Absolutely! While baby back ribs are tender and lean, you can also use spare ribs or St. Louis style ribs. Just adjust cooking time accordingly, as spare ribs might need a bit longer to become tender.

Is it necessary to remove the silver skin?

Yes, removing the silver skin is highly recommended because it can be tough and prevent seasoning from penetrating, resulting in less tender ribs.

Can I make the BBQ sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! The BBQ sauce can be made a day or two ahead and refrigerated. This actually enhances the flavors as they have more time to meld together.

What if I don’t have a grill or grill pan for finishing?

No worries! You can finish the ribs under a hot broiler in your oven, brushing with sauce and watching carefully until caramelized and slightly charred.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted by adding or leaving out cayenne pepper. Feel free to tailor it to your family’s preferred heat tolerance.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs with Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe from start to finish. It’s a journey filled with delicious aromas, tender bites, and the comfort of homemade goodness. If you haven’t tried slow-roasting your ribs with a scratch-made sauce, now’s your moment—grab those racks, fire up your oven and grill, and prepare to wow everyone at your table.

Print