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Oven-baked BBQ beef ribs served with a tangy sauce on a wooden platter

Oven Baked BBQ Beef Ribs

Indulge in tender, flavorful beef ribs baked to perfection and slathered in your favorite BBQ sauce—perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 2 hours
Cook Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 5 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Barbecue
Calories: 525
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 3 lbs beef short ribs Look for meaty ribs, ideally with the membrane scored or removed.
  • 2-4 tablespoons olive oil Adds moisture and helps the spices stick.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder For aromatic kick.
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder To deepen the flavor profile.
  • 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning Adds zest and heat.
  • 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar (packed) Balances the spices beautifully.
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder For a touch of heat.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Use smoked salt for more flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika Adds smokiness and color.
  • 2 teaspoons oregano For an herbaceous taste.
  • to taste favorite BBQ sauce Use a sweet, tangy sauce like Sweet Baby Ray's.
  • optional liquid smoke Enhances smoky flavor.

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. Rinse the ribs thoroughly and dry them completely with paper towels.
  2. If using liquid smoke, douse the dry ribs with it, massaging the flavor into the meat.
  3. Lightly coat the ribs in olive oil to help the spices adhere.
  4. Mix garlic powder, onion powder, cajun seasoning, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, paprika, and oregano in a bowl. Sprinkle this seasoning mix generously over the ribs.
  5. Place the seasoned ribs in a ziplock bag or covered bowl and let them marinate in the fridge for 1-2 hours.
  6. Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
  7. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and lay the marinated ribs in a single layer.
  8. Cover the ribs with another piece of foil, sealing the edges tightly.
  9. Bake the ribs for 3½-4 hours, checking tenderness after 3 hours and 30 minutes.
  10. Drain excess fat, then brush the ribs generously with BBQ sauce.
  11. Broil the ribs under low heat until the sauce is sticky, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
  12. Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Consider adding cayenne pepper for an extra kick. You can also make your own BBQ sauce for a personalized flavor. Ensure to monitor the ribs while broiling.