Craving tender, juicy ribs that practically melt in your mouth? Forget the grill – this St. Louis ribs oven recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone perfection right in your kitchen! This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast, offering delicious, healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs St. Louis-style pork ribs
- 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce (see variations below)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the rub adhere better and promotes browning.
Step 2: Make the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix thoroughly.
Step 3: Season the Ribs
Generously apply the dry rub to both sides of the ribs, ensuring they're completely coated. Press the rub gently into the meat.
Step 4: Wrap and Bake
Place the ribs in a large roasting pan. Pour the apple cider vinegar into the bottom of the pan. This helps keep the ribs moist during cooking. Loosely cover the pan with aluminum foil.
Bake for 2-2.5 hours, or until the ribs are very tender.
Step 5: Sauce and Finish
Remove the ribs from the oven and increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and brush the ribs generously with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Return the ribs to the oven, uncovered, and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is caramelized and the ribs are nicely browned.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender ribs. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for the Best Ribs:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Ensure there's enough space between the ribs for even cooking.
- Check for doneness: The ribs should be easily bendable and almost falling apart.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the ribs.
Variations:
- Spicy Ribs: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the dry rub.
- Sweet and Smoky Ribs: Use a smoky BBQ sauce and add a tablespoon of liquid smoke to the vinegar in the pan.
- Honey Garlic Ribs: Mix honey and soy sauce into your favorite BBQ sauce for a sweet and savory glaze.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary greatly depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for a 3-ounce serving of ribs is:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This St. Louis ribs oven recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. The ease of this homemade cooking method ensures delicious dishes every time. Enjoy!