Sweet and Sticky Baked BBQ Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, combining tender, fall-off-the-bone meat with a rich and flavorful sauce that’s both sweet and smoky. Perfect for any occasion, these ribs are oven-baked to perfection, ensuring a juicy and succulent result every time. The homemade BBQ sauce is infused with brown sugar, honey, and spices, creating a glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or craving a satisfying meal at home, these ribs will leave everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients
- 2 racks of pork baby back ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Dry Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup ketchup
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
- Prepare the ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for tender meat. Rub the ribs with olive oil, and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Make the dry rub: In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
- Bake the ribs: Place the ribs on the prepared baking sheet and cover them tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender.
- Prepare the BBQ sauce: While the ribs are baking, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, honey, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and mustard powder in a saucepan. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Glaze the ribs: Remove the ribs from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Brush the BBQ sauce generously over both sides of the ribs.
- Finish baking: Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
- Serve: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Enjoy your Sweet and Sticky Baked BBQ Ribs as a delicious and satisfying meal that captures the rich flavors of classic barbecue, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
