Melt-in-Your-Mouth Oven-Baked Beef Ribs

 Melt-in-Your-Mouth Oven-Baked Beef Ribs

Nothing says comfort food quite like a plate of succulent, fall-off-the-bone beef ribs slathered in a rich, smoky barbecue sauce. Perfect for weekend gatherings, holiday feasts, or anytime you’re craving a hearty meal, these oven-baked beef ribs deliver bold flavor with minimal effort. This recipe ensures your ribs turn out juicy, tender, and caramelized—just like they came off a professional smoker, but without the hassle.

Whether you’re hosting friends or preparing a cozy family dinner, this recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Keep reading to discover the best techniques and tips for preparing these mouthwatering beef ribs right in your oven.

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Ingredients for Oven-Baked Beef Ribs

Beef Ribs (3–4 pounds):

The star of the show! Look for meaty, well-marbled ribs to ensure rich flavor and tender texture. Short ribs or back ribs both work beautifully in this recipe.

Salt and Pepper (to taste):

The foundation of flavor—kosher salt enhances the meat's natural taste, while freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle kick.

Garlic Powder (1 tablespoon):

Infuses the ribs with a savory depth and ensures even flavor distribution without the need for fresh garlic.

Onion Powder (1 tablespoon):

Adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to complement the smoky notes in the seasoning blend.

Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon):

Brings a smoky, earthy flavor that mimics slow-smoked ribs cooked on a grill.

Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon):

Provides a herbal, aromatic balance to the bold spices.

Barbecue Sauce (1/2 cup, plus extra for serving):

Acts as the finishing glaze, caramelizing beautifully under heat and adding a sticky-sweet, tangy coating to the ribs.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 300°F (150°C). Low and slow cooking is the key to achieving tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.

2. Prepare the Ribs:

Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Trim any silver skin or excess fat for even cooking.

3. Season the Ribs:

In a small bowl, mix the salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Rub this spice blend generously over both sides of the ribs, ensuring even coverage.

4. Wrap for Roasting:

Place the seasoned ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet. Cover tightly with another layer of foil to create a sealed packet that locks in moisture.

5. Bake Low and Slow:

Transfer the baking sheet to the oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours. The ribs are ready when they’re fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.

6. Add the BBQ Glaze:

Remove the ribs from the oven and carefully discard the foil. Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce for a sticky, flavorful coating.

7. Caramelize the Sauce:

Preheat your grill or set your oven to broil.

Grill or broil the ribs for 5–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes without burning.

8. Serve and Enjoy:

Let the ribs rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra barbecue sauce for dipping.

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Why You’ll Love These Oven-Baked Beef Ribs

Effortless Preparation: No need for fancy equipment—your oven does all the work!

Unbeatable Flavor: Smoky, savory spices and sticky barbecue sauce create a perfect balance of sweetness and heat.

Tender Perfection: Slow baking ensures the meat is juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Beef Ribs

Room Temperature Meat: Let the ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even baking.

Double Layer Foil: Use heavy-duty foil to prevent leaks and retain moisture during roasting.

Homemade BBQ Sauce: For an extra-special touch, make your own sauce by combining ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of hot sauce.

Resting Time: Allow the ribs to rest before slicing to retain their juices and prevent dryness.

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Serving Suggestions

Pair these juicy beef ribs with classic sides to complete your meal:

Creamy Coleslaw: Adds a refreshing crunch to balance the richness of the ribs.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, perfect for soaking up the extra barbecue sauce.

Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, smoky, and buttery—a natural match for ribs.

Baked Mac and Cheese: Indulgent and cheesy for the ultimate comfort food pairing.

Pickles or Pickled Onions: Bright and tangy to cut through the heaviness of the meat.

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Final Thoughts

These melt-in-your-mouth oven-baked beef ribs prove you don’t need a smoker to achieve restaurant-quality barbecue at home. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe guarantees tender, flavorful ribs every time.

Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or feeding a hungry crowd, these ribs are sure to impress. Try this recipe today and experience the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and sweet flavors—all baked to perfection in your kitchen.

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w your guests? Bookmark this recipe and share it with fellow barbecue lovers. Your search for the best oven-baked beef ribs ends here!