Master the art of tender, flavorful ribs using a classic oven method. Follow along as I show you how to achieve perfectly seasoned and succulent ribs right in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Heat the Oven – Set the oven rack to the center position. Heat it to 275ºF (135ºC).
Make the Seasoning – In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, salt, pepper, mustard powder, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and nutmeg.
Prepare the Ribs – Remove the silverskin from the ribs if still attached. Dry the surface with a paper towel.
Season the Surface – Evenly apply the dry rub to the underside and then to the top of the ribs. Add just enough so that it sticks to the surface, and stop once it begins to fall off. A single rack needs about ½ cup of rib rub.
Cover and Bake – Transfer the ribs meat-side up to a rimmed baking sheet. If needed, cut the rack in half to fit the pan. Tightly cover the pan with foil. Bake until the meat falls off the bone and the thickest part of the ribs reaches at least 200 (93ºC) on a meat thermometer, about 2 to 3 ½ hours.When baking is complete, carefully remove the foil, opening it so that the steam exits away from you. There will be a lot of juice at the bottom of the pan.
Add Sauce and Broil – Carefully transfer the ribs to a new sheet pan. Brush the barbecue sauce on the underside, then flip and brush the sauce on the top. Broil in the center of the oven until the sauce is caramelized, about 5 minutes.
To Serve – Rest the meat on a cutting board for at least 10 minutes, then slice and serve.
Notes
Serving Size: About 3 ribs
Pork Rib Selection: Pork Spare ribs are meatier, juicier, and have more fat. St. Loius-style Spare ribs are more uniform and fattier with less meat than baby back ribs. Baby Back Ribs have smaller bones, are leaner, have less meat than spare ribs, and cook faster.
Rib Rub: Makes about 1/2 cup. Use it for a 2- to 3-pound rack of ribs. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Storing: Cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Cover and microwave on high setting in 15 to 30-second increments until hot, or cover and reheat in the oven at 350ºF (177ºC) until hot.