When it comes to savory dishes, it’s hard to beat the allure of beef back ribs cooked in the oven. They’re juicy, flavorful, and absolutely perfect for any gathering or family meal. But what should you pair with these tantalizing ribs?
A refreshing Italian pasta salad sitting on the side, complemented by a tangy homemade zesty dressing. Imagine how well the rich flavors of the beef contrast with the crisp, vibrant notes of the salad. Sounds mouthwatering, right?
I remember my first attempt at cooking beef back ribs. I was nervous but excited. After a bit of trial and error, I discovered the perfect way to prepare them in the oven. Not only did I learn the techniques, but I also gathered some invaluable insights along the way that I’m thrilled to share with you.

Why This Recipe is Great for You
Cooking beef back ribs in the oven might seem intimidating, but trust me, it can be so rewarding. This method ensures tender, juicy meat that falls off the bone, while also allowing you to infuse rich flavors over several hours.
Plus, it’s a dish that’s perfect for meal prepping. You can create a delicious feast that will impress friends and family without breaking a sweat.
When I first used this recipe, I was transformed. It became a staple in my home for special occasions and casual dinners alike. Not only were the ribs a hit, but the accompanying Italian pasta salad made for a colorful and appealing plate. The best part? Everything could be made ahead of time!
Ingredients
Before we delve into the process, let’s take a look at what you’ll need. Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients necessary for this mouthwatering dish.
For the Dry Rub:
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons ground paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
For the Ribs:
- 4 pounds beef back ribs
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (use your favorite variety)
These ingredients create a symphony of flavors that truly enhances the sumptuous taste of the ribs. The dry rub adds a depth of flavor that permeates every bite, while the BBQ sauce provides that sticky-sweet finish.

How to Make Beef Back Ribs in the Oven
Getting started is easy! Follow these steps to create your mouthwatering beef back ribs.
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
First things first—let’s get the ribs ready for their flavor adventure. Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method is crucial for achieving tender meat. While the oven warms up, place the beef back ribs on a large cutting board. Pat them dry using paper towels. This will help the dry rub adhere better to the meat.
Step 2: Apply the Dry Rub
Now comes the fun part! In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, ground paprika, black pepper, cumin, and sea salt. Once mixed, generously sprinkle this dry rub over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to rub it into the meat; this is where the flavor really develops. If your hands are feeling adventurous, use them to massage that seasoning right into the meat!
Step 3: Wrap and Roast
After seasoning, tightly wrap the ribs in aluminum foil—making sure they’re fully enclosed. This is essential to keep the moisture in, which makes the meat fall-off-the-bone tender. Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, then pop them into the preheated oven. Let them roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Patience is key—trust the process!
Step 4: Glaze with BBQ Sauce
Once the time has passed, carefully unwrap the ribs (watch out for the steam!). At this point, they should look beautifully cooked and smell delightful. Use a brush to generously apply your BBQ sauce to the ribs, covering them in a thick layer of deliciousness.
Step 5: Broil for Finish
Now, switch your oven to the broil setting. This will give you those crispy, caramelized edges we all love. Place the ribs back in the oven, uncovered. Broil for about 5-10 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Once the sauce is bubbly and slightly charred, take them out!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step ensures that all those flavorful juices get locked into the meat. Then, slice the ribs between the bones and serve them up hot. Pair them with your refreshing Italian pasta salad, and you’re ready for a feast.
Recipe Notes
- Garlic Powder: A staple in many kitchens, garlic powder adds a savory depth without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. Use a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
- Ground Paprika: This spice introduces a subtle smokiness, enhancing the overall taste. It can vary in heat, so choose according to your preference.
- Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best. It packs more flavor than pre-ground and gives a slight kick to your ribs.
- Ground Cumin: This spice brings an earthy, warm flavor to the mix. It’s a must-have for seasoning meats.
- Sea Salt: Enhances flavors beautifully. Opting for sea salt offers a more complex taste profile than ordinary table salt.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce that excites your taste buds. Whether sweet, tangy, or spicy, this is your chance to personalize the dish!
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative! Here are some variations to consider:
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to your dry rub for an extra burst of heat.
- Sweet & Sticky: Mix honey or maple syrup into your BBQ sauce for heightened sweetness.
- Herbal Notes: Incorporate dried herbs like thyme or rosemary into your rub for an aromatic twist.
- Different Sauces: Trail out various sauces like teriyaki or mustard BBQ for a unique flavor profile.
- Smoke Flavors: If you have a smoke box for your oven, add smokey chips for that true outdoor barbecue experience.
- Marinated Version: Let the ribs marinate in the dry rub overnight to intensify the flavors even further.

Conclusion
Cooking beef back ribs in the oven is a relatively simple process that yields fantastic results. Not only do you get tender, flavorful meat, but this dish also opens a world of pairings and variations—endless opportunities for you to explore. The joy of sharing a meal made with love, like these juicy ribs, cannot be overstated.
As you treat your friends and family to this delightful dish, you’ll create lasting memories and likely earn yourself the title of chef! Now, fire up the oven, gather your ingredients, and embark on this delicious journey. You’re in for a treat!
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Beef Back Ribs Oven Recipe – Grandma’s Tasty Recipes
Description
When it comes to savory dishes, it’s hard to beat the allure of beef back ribs cooked in the oven. They’re juicy, flavorful, and absolutely perfect for any gathering or family meal. But what should you pair with these tantalizing ribs?
A refreshing Italian pasta salad sitting on the side, complemented by a tangy homemade zesty dressing. Imagine how well the rich flavors of the beef contrast with the crisp, vibrant notes of the salad. Sounds mouthwatering, right?
I remember my first attempt at cooking beef back ribs. I was nervous but excited. After a bit of trial and error, I discovered the perfect way to prepare them in the oven. Not only did I learn the techniques, but I also gathered some invaluable insights along the way that I’m thrilled to share with you.
Ingredients
For the Dry Rub:
For the Ribs:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
-
First things first—let’s get the ribs ready for their flavor adventure. Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking method is crucial for achieving tender meat. While the oven warms up, place the beef back ribs on a large cutting board. Pat them dry using paper towels. This will help the dry rub adhere better to the meat.
Step 2: Apply the Dry Rub
-
Now comes the fun part! In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, ground paprika, black pepper, cumin, and sea salt. Once mixed, generously sprinkle this dry rub over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to rub it into the meat; this is where the flavor really develops. If your hands are feeling adventurous, use them to massage that seasoning right into the meat!
Step 3: Wrap and Roast
-
After seasoning, tightly wrap the ribs in aluminum foil—making sure they’re fully enclosed. This is essential to keep the moisture in, which makes the meat fall-off-the-bone tender. Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet or in a roasting pan, then pop them into the preheated oven. Let them roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours. Patience is key—trust the process!
Step 4: Glaze with BBQ Sauce
-
Once the time has passed, carefully unwrap the ribs (watch out for the steam!). At this point, they should look beautifully cooked and smell delightful. Use a brush to generously apply your BBQ sauce to the ribs, covering them in a thick layer of deliciousness.
Step 5: Broil for Finish
-
Now, switch your oven to the broil setting. This will give you those crispy, caramelized edges we all love. Place the ribs back in the oven, uncovered. Broil for about 5-10 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. Once the sauce is bubbly and slightly charred, take them out!
Step 6: Rest and Serve
-
Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step ensures that all those flavorful juices get locked into the meat. Then, slice the ribs between the bones and serve them up hot. Pair them with your refreshing Italian pasta salad, and you’re ready for a feast.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1090kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 74.5g115%
- Saturated Fat 27.9g140%
- Trans Fat 3.9g
- Cholesterol 340mg114%
- Sodium 1113mg47%
- Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Sugars 1g
- Protein 101g202%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Garlic Powder: A staple in many kitchens, garlic powder adds a savory depth without the hassle of chopping fresh garlic. Use a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
- Ground Paprika: This spice introduces a subtle smokiness, enhancing the overall taste. It can vary in heat, so choose according to your preference.
- Ground Black Pepper: Freshly ground is always best. It packs more flavor than pre-ground and gives a slight kick to your ribs.
- Ground Cumin: This spice brings an earthy, warm flavor to the mix. It’s a must-have for seasoning meats.
- Sea Salt: Enhances flavors beautifully. Opting for sea salt offers a more complex taste profile than ordinary table salt.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose a sauce that excites your taste buds. Whether sweet, tangy, or spicy, this is your chance to personalize the dish!
