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Easy Oven-Baked Baby Back Ribs: Fall-Off-The-Bone Deliciousness

There's nothing quite like sinking your teeth into tender, flavorful baby back ribs, but many recipes may be time-consuming.

While grilling is a popular method, using your oven to bake the ribs offers a simple, convenient, and foolproof alternative that still yields mouthwatering results. 

How to Make the Easiest Baby Back Ribs

Baby Back ribs on a white plate with coleslaw.

These no-fuss, easy oven-baked baby back ribs are a game-changer for busy home cooks seeking a hassle-free way to enjoy tender and succulent ribs. With my southwest seasoning blend as the dry rub, a splash of white wine for added moisture, and your favorite bottled barbecue sauce, you'll have a crowd-pleasing dish on the table in no time. 

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Making baby back ribs in the oven has several advantages that will make this recipe a favorite you'll want to make again and again.

It's Easy and Convenient: Oven-baking eliminates the need for a grill, making this recipe accessible to all home cooks. It's perfect for summer gatherings because you won't need to stand over a hot grill and will have more time to focus on your guests.

The Ribs are Tender and Juicy: Slow cooking at a low temperature allows the ribs to become tender, and juicy, and fall-off-the-bone delicious.

A Make-Ahead Seasoning Blend: Using my proprietary southwest seasoning blend as a dry rub adds a unique and flavorful twist to the ribs.

Quick Prep Time: With minimal prep and simple ingredients, you'll have mouthwatering ribs on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

Versatile: Whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, these oven-baked baby back ribs are perfect for any occasion.

How to Make the Baby Back Ribs

You will need:

- 1 rack of baby back ribs

- My proprietary southwest seasoning blend, included on the recipe card below(or any preferred dry rub)

- 1/2 cup white wine

- Your favorite bottled barbecue sauce

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (163 degrees C).

2. Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the bone side of the rack. This can be done by loosening one corner with a knife or your fingers and then using a paper towel to grip and peel off the membrane.

Using a paper towel to remove the membrane from a rack of ribs.

3. Generously season the ribs with the southwest seasoning blend (or preferred dry rub), ensuring all sides are coated. Massage the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.

4. Place the seasoned ribs on a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Fold the foil over the ribs and seal the edges to create a tightly sealed packet.

5. Pour the white wine into the packet, being careful not to wet the ribs. The wine will add moisture and help tenderize the meat during cooking.

6. Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 4 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bones. Check it after three hours.

7. Carefully remove the foil packet from the oven and open it, being cautious of the hot steam. Brush the ribs generously with your favorite bottled barbecue sauce.

8. Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and broil on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes and forms a delicious glaze.

9. Remove the ribs from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different liquid instead of white wine?

Yes! If you prefer, you can substitute white wine with apple juice, apple cider, or even chicken broth for added flavor.

 Can I use a homemade barbecue sauce instead of a bottled one?

Absolutely! My goal was to give you a recipe with the utmost convenience without sacrificing flavor. Feel free to use your favorite homemade barbecue sauce if you prefer a personalized touch. Adjust the seasoning to your taste for a truly unique flavor experience.

Can I make the ribs ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the ribs in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat them in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through, then proceed with the broiling step to achieve a caramelized glaze.

Does it matter how the ribs are placed in the pan?

Placing the rack of ribs meat side down allows the fat to melt through the meat making it more tender.  It also allows the liquid to mix with the fat for better braising.

Whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these fall-off-the-bone ribs will leave everyone craving for more. Give this recipe a try and savor the delightful flavors of homemade ribs without the fuss!

How to make ribs, oven-baked ribs
dinner
American
Yield: 4 servings per rack
Author: Donna Urso
Easiest Baby Back Ribs

Easiest Baby Back Ribs

The easiest way to make mouthwatering oven-baked baby back ribs with a southwest seasoning blend and white wine for tenderness.
Prep time: 10 MinCook time: 4 HourTotal time: 4 H & 10 M

Ingredients

Ribs
Southwest Seasoning Mix

Instructions

To prepare the Ribs
  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (163 degrees C).
  2. Mix all of the seasoning ingredients together. Store extra seasoning mix in an airtight container. Use it on any meats and seafood that you want to have a zippy taste. (Makes 1 1/4 cups)
  3. Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the bone side of the rack. This can be done by loosening one corner with a knife or your fingers and then using a paper towel to grip and peel off the membrane.
  4. Generously season the ribs with the southwest seasoning blend (or preferred dry rub), ensuring all sides are coated. Massage the seasoning into the meat for maximum flavor.
  5. Place the seasoned ribs on a large sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Fold the foil over the ribs and seal the edges to create a tightly sealed packet.
  6. Pour the white wine into the packet, being careful not to wet the ribs. The wine will add moisture and help tenderize the meat during cooking.
  7. Place the foil packet on a baking sheet and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 4 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bones. Start checking after three hours.
  8. Carefully remove the foil packet from the oven and open it, being cautious of the hot steam. Brush the ribs generously with your favorite bottled barbecue sauce.
  9. Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and broil on high for 3-5 minutes, or until the sauce caramelizes and forms a delicious glaze.
  10. Remove the ribs from the oven, let them rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

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