Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs

Oven Barbecue Ribs slathered in the most delicious sticky barbecue sauce with a kick of garlic and optional heat! These Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs are juicy, tender, and melt in your mouth, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a summer gathering, these ribs will impress everyone at the table. The standout quality of this dish is its incredible flavor created by an easy-to-make dry rub and a seasoned barbecue sauce mixture that’s simply addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these ribs without much fuss.
• Bursting with Flavor: The combination of spices and barbecue sauce creates a rich, tangy taste that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or special occasions; these ribs fit any meal plan.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Tenderness: Slow baking ensures the ribs are tender, juicy, and flavorful.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level with optional chili or cayenne powder for those who like it hot!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your kitchen tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment on hand makes it easier to prepare the Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring spoons
• Basting brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for cooking the ribs evenly without mess.
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper: Keeps the moisture in while baking, ensuring juicy ribs.
• Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining your dry rub ingredients before applying them to the meat.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Ribs

• 4 pounds baby back pork ribs
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (cracked)
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (or cayenne powder – optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 2 cups barbecue sauce
• 3 tablespoons garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 – 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
• 1 teaspoon salt

How to Make Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This initial temperature is crucial for slowly cooking the ribs to perfection.

Step 2: Prepare the Ribs

• Peel off the tough membrane that covers the underside of the ribs.
• Place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper.

Step 3: Make the Dry Rub

• In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili powder (or cayenne).
• Sprinkle this seasoning mixture over both sides of the ribs.
• Drizzle with olive oil and rub it all over to coat evenly.

Step 4: Bake the Ribs

Cover the baking sheet with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 2 hours. This slow cooking process ensures tenderness.

Step 5: Prepare Sauce Mixture

During the last 5 minutes of cook time:
– In a separate bowl, mix together all sauce ingredients until well combined.

Step 6: Apply Sauce and Broil

• Remove ribs from oven and take off foil.
• Spread the tops generously with your prepared barbecue sauce mixture.
• Increase oven temperature to 460°F (240°C) and return ribs uncovered to bake for another 10 minutes.
• To finish, switch oven settings to broil on medium-high heat for about 3 minutes until edges are lightly charred.

Step 7: Rest Before Serving

Let your Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs rest for 10 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute within the meat before slicing.

Step 8: Enjoy!

Slice up your deliciously sticky barbecue ribs and serve them hot. Enjoy every mouth-watering bite!

How to Serve Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs

Serving Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with the right pairings. These ribs are not only flavorful but also versatile, making them perfect for various occasions.

Classic Coleslaw

• Crisp and Refreshing: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the ribs.

Cornbread Muffins

• Sweet and Savory: Soft and slightly sweet cornbread muffins complement the smoky flavor of the barbecue sauce.

Baked Beans

• Hearty and Flavorful: A side of baked beans brings a comforting touch, with their sweetness pairing well with the sticky sauce.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

• Charred Goodness: Grilled corn adds a smoky flavor that enhances your barbecue meal, especially when brushed with butter.

Pickle Chips

• Zesty Contrast: The acidity of pickle chips cuts through the richness of the ribs, providing a refreshing bite.

French Fries

• Crispy Indulgence: Golden fries are a classic side that everyone loves, perfect for dipping in extra barbecue sauce.

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How to Perfect Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs

To achieve mouth-watering Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs, follow these expert tips for best results.

• Preheat Your Oven: Ensuring your oven is fully preheated helps in cooking the ribs evenly from the start.

• Remove the Membrane: Taking off the tough membrane on the ribs allows for better seasoning absorption and tenderness.

• Use Quality Sauce: Selecting a high-quality barbecue sauce can elevate flavors; consider making your own for a personal touch.

• Let Them Rest: Allowing the ribs to rest after cooking ensures juices redistribute, resulting in juicier meat.

• Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on cooking times, especially towards the end when broiling to avoid burning.

• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add or adjust spices in your rub according to your taste preference for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs

Pairing side dishes with your Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Potato Salad: Creamy and loaded with flavors, potato salad is always a hit at gatherings.
2. Macaroni and Cheese: Rich and cheesy pasta complements the savory notes of BBQ ribs perfectly.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies add freshness and balance out the heaviness of the meal.
4. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs makes for a light yet satisfying side.
5. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for sopping up any leftover sauce from your ribs.
6. Deviled Eggs: These classic appetizers offer a creamy contrast that pairs well with barbecued meat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the membrane removal – Not removing the tough membrane on the ribs can lead to chewy and less tender meat. Always peel it off for better texture.
• Over-seasoning the ribs – While seasoning adds flavor, using too much can overpower the dish. Stick to recommended amounts for a balanced taste.
• Ignoring resting time – Cutting into the ribs immediately after cooking can let juices escape, resulting in dry meat. Allow them to rest for about 10 minutes.
• Using low-quality barbecue sauce – The sauce plays a crucial role in flavor. Opt for a high-quality or homemade barbecue sauce for a richer taste.
• Baking at incorrect temperatures – Cooking at temperatures that are too low or too high can affect tenderness and caramelization. Follow the recipe closely for best results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover ribs in an airtight container.
• They will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs

• Wrap ribs tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place ribs on a baking sheet covered with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place ribs on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in short intervals until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little water or sauce, and cover to steam until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs.

Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?

Yes, you can use spare ribs instead! However, they will require longer cooking time due to their size.

What barbecue sauce is best for Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs?

A sweet and smoky barbecue sauce works best. You can also try homemade versions for extra flavor!

How do I know when the ribs are done cooking?

Ribs are done when they are tender and pull away from the bone easily. A meat thermometer should read at least 145°F (63°C).

Can I make Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them up to two days ahead and reheat them before serving.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. This recipe allows you to customize flavors with different sauces or spices. Whether it’s a family dinner or a summer gathering, these ribs will surely impress your guests. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try!