Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 275°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with heavy-duty aluminum foil and spray with nonstick cooking spray.
- Flip the rack of ribs bone-side up. Use a butter knife to loosen the thin membrane on the back, then grip it with a dry paper towel and pull it off completely. Discard.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using.) Stir until thoroughly mixed.
- Generously press the dry rub onto all sides of the ribs, making sure to coat them thoroughly. Place the rack meat-side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar over the ribs. Cover tightly with another sheet of heavy-duty aluminum foil, sealing the edges well to trap all the steam inside.
- Bake at 275°F for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the meat is very tender and has begun to pull back from the bones.
- Increase oven temperature to 400°F. Carefully fold back the top foil to expose the ribs. Brush 1 cup of BBQ sauce generously over the top of the rack.
- Return to the oven uncovered and bake for 15-20 minutes until the sauce is sticky and caramelized. Alternatively, broil on high for 3-5 minutes — watch closely so the sauce doesn't burn!
- Remove from oven and let ribs rest for 10 minutes. Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Nutrition
Notes
Make it ahead: Season the ribs with the dry rub, wrap tightly in foil, and refrigerate overnight. The rub will penetrate deeper into the meat for even more flavor. Pull them out 30 minutes before baking to take some of the chill off.
Storage: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap cooled ribs tightly in plastic wrap then foil for up to 3 months. Reheat covered in foil at 300°F until warmed through to keep them moist and tender.
Lighten it up: For a slightly lighter option, look for a low-sugar BBQ sauce at the store. Baby back ribs are naturally a good source of protein and when paired with vegetable sides like steamed broccoli or a fresh salad, this makes for a well-rounded, satisfying, and nutritious meal for the whole family.