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Best Baby Back Ribs

These baby back ribs are juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, perfect for any gathering or family meal.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 4 servings
Course: BBQ, Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 325
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Spice Rub
  • 3 tablespoons sugar Adds a delightful sweetness.
  • 2 teaspoons salt Enhances flavor.
  • 1.5 tablespoons smoked paprika Provides a smoky flavor.
  • 1.5 teaspoons garlic powder Adds aromatic warmth.
  • 1.5 teaspoons onion powder Gives a hint of sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin Contributes a warm undertone.
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano Adds herbaceous freshness.
  • 0.5 teaspoon ground mustard Provides a subtle tang.
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adds heat.
For the Ribs
  • 2 racks baby back ribs Main ingredient for the dish.
  • 6 tablespoons BBQ sauce For glazing before serving.

Method
 

Preparation of the Spice Rub
  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sugar, salt, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, oregano, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper.
Preheat Cooking Surface
  1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C) or your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Prepare the Ribs
  1. Remove the membrane from the underside of each rack of ribs.
  2. Coat the ribs evenly on both sides with half of the spice rub. Let sit for 15 minutes.
  3. After resting, coat the racks with the remaining rub.
Cooking the Ribs
  1. Place the ribs in the smoker and cook for 2 hours.
  2. After 2 hours, double wrap the ribs in foil and return to the smoker for an additional 1.5 hours.
  3. Unwrap the ribs and brush with BBQ sauce. Wrap and cook for another 45 minutes to 1 hour or until tender.
Oven or Grill Method
  1. Line a baking sheet with foil, cover the ribs tightly with foil, and bake for 2 hours.
  2. Remove the foil, brush with BBQ sauce, and broil for 2-4 minutes until bubbling, or grill for 10-15 minutes.
Serving
  1. Let the ribs cool for 10 minutes, then slice and serve.

Notes

For best results, let the ribs sit with the rub overnight. Consider adjusting cayenne for heat preference.