Dinner

Easy Oven Baked BBQ Beef Ribs Recipe

ByMatteo Rossi January 18, 2026January 18, 2026

Introduction

These easy oven baked BBQ beef ribs are a family favorite, known for being tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned. Slow-baked to fall-off-the-bone perfection, they make an impressive yet simple meal for any occasion.

A white plate holds two big ribs covered in dark, shiny barbecue sauce with a thick, sticky texture. The ribs show thick bones with tender meat pulling apart into juicy strands underneath the sauce. Light green dried herbs are sprinkled over the ribs, adding small color contrast. A woman's hand is seen holding a fork and knife, cutting into the tender meat. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a soft pink and white checkered cloth in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 lbs meaty beef ribs (grass-fed)
Liquid smoke (optional)
2-4 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons dark brown sugar (packed)
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt (smoked salt optional; 1½ teaspoons if preferred saltier)
1 teaspoon paprika
2 teaspoons oregano
Favorite BBQ sauce (a few tablespoons, Sweet Baby Ray’s recommended)

Instructions

Step 1: Rinse the ribs and dry completely with paper towels.
Step 2: If using, douse the dry ribs with liquid smoke and rub it in evenly.
Step 3: Lightly coat the ribs in olive oil to help the spices stick.
Step 4: Mix together garlic powder, onion powder, Cajun seasoning, dark brown sugar, chili powder, salt, paprika, and oregano. Sprinkle generously over both sides of the ribs.
Step 5: Massage the spice blend into the ribs, adding more olive oil if needed to distribute evenly.
Step 6: Place the seasoned ribs in a large ziplock bag or covered bowl and marinate in the fridge for 1-2 hours.
Step 7: Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
Step 8: Arrange the ribs on a foil-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Cover with another piece of foil, sealing the edges tightly to create a pouch for steaming.
Step 9: Bake ribs on the middle oven rack for 3½ to 4 hours. Start checking at 3½ hours; low temperature lets you extend cooking without worry.
Step 10: Once tender, drain off excess fat from the ribs.
Step 11: Brush ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce.
Step 12: Broil uncovered on low just until the sauce becomes sticky—watch closely to avoid burning.
Step 13: Serve hot and enjoy the tender, flavorful beef ribs.

Tips & Variations

For deeper flavor, marinate ribs overnight in the fridge.
Use smoked salt to enhance the smoky taste if you skip the liquid smoke.
Try different BBQ sauces to customize the final flavor profile.
Serve with classic Southern sides like cornbread and mashed sweet potatoes for a complete meal.

Storage

Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a low oven or covered skillet to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep ribs tender and juicy.

How to Serve

A white square plate holds a stack of dark brown, glazed ribs covered in rich barbecue sauce with a shiny texture and green herbs sprinkled on top. The ribs have visible bones and tender, shredded meat being pulled apart with a fork and a woman's hand holding a smaller fork. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a soft pink and white checkered cloth beneath. The overall look is warm and inviting, showing the juicy, slow-cooked meat with a glossy sauce photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use beef short ribs instead of meaty beef ribs?

Yes, beef short ribs can work well but may require slightly different cooking times depending on thickness. Adjust baking time and check for tenderness accordingly.

Is liquid smoke necessary for this recipe?

Liquid smoke is optional and adds a smoky depth, but you can skip it if desired. Using smoked salt or a smoky BBQ sauce can help compensate for the flavor.