Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
Oven Barbecue Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or a cozy night in. The Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs recipe combines juicy pork ribs with a rich, flavorful barbecue sauce that features a delightful kick of garlic and optional heat. You’ll find them incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have ribs ready without fuss.
- Mouthwatering Flavor: A delicious blend of spices and sauce creates an irresistible taste that will leave everyone wanting more.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for summer barbecues or winter dinners, these ribs fit any season or celebration.
- Tender & Juicy: Slow cooking ensures the meat is tender and falls off the bone, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this dish, making it great for family gatherings.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience seamless, gathering the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need.
Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!
- Stays Razor-Sharp: Ice-hardened blade keeps its edge longer than ordinary knives
- Superior Grip Control: Unique finger hole design gives you perfect balance and safety
- Built to Last a Lifetime: Premium stainless steel blade with elegant beech wood handle
Customer Reviews ★★★★★
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Baking sheet or tray
- Aluminum foil (or parchment paper)
- Mixing bowl
- Basting brush
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking sheet or tray: Provides a sturdy surface for cooking the ribs evenly without mess.
- Aluminum foil: Helps retain moisture during cooking, ensuring tender ribs.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining dry rub ingredients and sauce components easily.
- Basting brush: Perfect for spreading the barbecue sauce evenly on the ribs.
Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 4 pounds baby back pork ribs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (cracked)
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (or cayenne powder – optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- 3 tablespoons garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 – 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
How to Make Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). This temperature is ideal for slow-cooking the ribs to perfection.
Step 2: Prepare the Ribs
Peel off the tough membrane covering the bony side of the ribs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil or parchment paper to catch drips.
Step 3: Create the Dry Rub
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, and chili or cayenne.
2. Sprinkle this seasoning over both sides of the ribs.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and rub everything in well.
Cover the tray with foil and bake for 2 hours.
Step 4: Mix Sauce Ingredients
During the last 5 minutes of baking time:
1. In a separate bowl, mix together all barbecue sauce ingredients until well combined.
Step 5: Apply Barbecue Sauce
Once baked, remove ribs from oven. Take off foil and spread your prepared barbecue sauce generously over the tops of the ribs.
Step 6: Final Bake
Increase oven temperature to 460°F (240°C). Return uncovered ribs to oven:
– Bake for an additional 10 minutes.
– Switch to broil or grill on medium-high heat for about 3 minutes; this will char and caramelize edges beautifully.
Step 7: Resting Time
Allow ribs to rest for about 10 minutes. This step lets juices redistribute throughout the meat before slicing.
Step 8: Enjoy!
Slice into portions and serve hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy your delicious Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs!
How to Serve Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
Serving Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs is all about enhancing their rich flavors and ensuring a satisfying meal. Pairing them with the right sides and garnishes can elevate your dining experience.
With Coleslaw
- Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the tender, sticky ribs. The creaminess and tanginess balance the richness of the barbecue sauce.
On a Bun
- Transform your ribs into a delicious sandwich! Shred the meat, pile it onto a soft bun, and add extra barbecue sauce for a mouthwatering treat.
With Pickles
- Tangy pickles cut through the sweetness of the barbecue sauce, adding brightness to each bite. They are perfect as a side or topping.
With Cornbread
- Soft and sweet cornbread complements the savory flavor of the ribs. Serve it warm for a comforting addition to your meal.
With Grilled Vegetables
- Grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and corn add color and nutrition to your plate. Their smoky flavor pairs well with the ribs.

How to Perfect Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
To achieve melt-in-your-mouth Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs, remember these key tips.
- Choose Quality Meat: Opt for fresh baby back ribs for better flavor and tenderness.
- Remove the Membrane: Peel off the tough membrane on the back of the ribs for more tender results.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the ribs to rest after cooking. This helps retain juices and enhances flavor.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your ribs reach an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C) for optimal tenderness.
- Experiment with Sauces: Try different barbecue sauces or homemade variations to find your favorite flavor profile.
- Adjust Cooking Times: Depending on your oven, you might need to adjust cooking times slightly for perfect results.
Best Side Dishes for Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs pair beautifully with various sides that complement their robust flavors. Here are some top picks:
- Baked Beans: Sweet and savory baked beans provide a hearty counterpart to your ribs.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy mac and cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, adding comfort to your meal.
- Potato Salad: Cool potato salad balances out the heat from any spice in the ribs while adding texture.
- Corn on the Cob: Freshly grilled corn offers sweetness that contrasts nicely with sticky sauces.
- Garden Salad: A light garden salad brings freshness and crunch, cutting through the richness of the dish.
- French Fries: Crispy fries are an indulgent side that pairs perfectly with juicy ribs for those who love comfort food.
- Sweet Potato Wedges: Roasted sweet potato wedges add natural sweetness and are an excellent nutritious option.
- Fried Green Tomatoes: These provide a tangy crunch that complements the sticky goodness of barbecue ribs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:
- Not removing the membrane: Failing to peel off the tough membrane can lead to chewy ribs. Always remove it for tender, juicy results.
- Under-seasoning the ribs: Skipping the dry rub can leave your ribs bland. Make sure to generously apply the seasoning for maximum flavor.
- Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the ribs immediately after baking can result in dry meat. Allow them to rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
- Using low-quality barbecue sauce: A mediocre sauce can ruin your dish. Opt for a high-quality or homemade sauce for a richer taste.
- Overcooking or undercooking: Baking times are crucial; too long can dry them out, while too short leaves them tough. Follow the recipe closely for perfect results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover ribs in an airtight container.
- They will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
- Wrap ribs tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs so special?
Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs are beloved because they combine tender meat with a rich, flavorful sauce that has just the right amount of kick.
Can I use other types of ribs?
Yes! While baby back ribs are recommended, you can also try spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs using the same method.
How do I know when my Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs are done?
Ribs are done when they have pulled back from the bone and are tender enough that they fall apart easily when pulled with a fork.
Can I make these Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook them ahead of time and then reheat them before serving for your convenience.
Final Thoughts
Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with different spices or sauces based on your taste preferences. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and delight your taste buds!
Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Sticky Oven Barbecue Ribs are the quintessential comfort food, ideal for any gathering or a cozy night at home. This recipe delivers tender, juicy pork ribs coated in a mouthwatering barbecue sauce that’s infused with garlic and a hint of spice. The process is straightforward, making it perfect for cooks of all skill levels. Whether it’s summer barbecues or winter feasts, these ribs promise to be a hit with family and friends alike. With their irresistible flavor and fall-off-the-bone tenderness, you’ll find yourself returning to this recipe time and again.
Ingredients
- 4 pounds baby back pork ribs
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 cups barbecue sauce
- Optional: cayenne pepper for heat
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Remove the membrane from the ribs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
- In a mixing bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, cumin, and optional cayenne. Rub the mixture over the ribs with olive oil.
- Cover with foil and bake for 2 hours.
- Mix barbecue sauce ingredients in another bowl during the last 5 minutes of baking.
- After baking, remove foil and coat ribs with sauce.
- Increase oven temperature to 460°F (240°C) and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes; broil for 3 more minutes for caramelization.
- Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 470
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 950mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 100mg







