Ingredients
- 2 racks pork baby back ribs (about 4–5 lbs total)
- 2 tbsp yellow mustard (binder)
- ¼ cup BBQ rub (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- ½ cup apple juice (for oven method)
For Homemade BBQ Rub:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper
Instructions
Step 1 – Prepare ribs
Remove the silver skin membrane from the back of each rib rack. Pat ribs dry with paper towels.
Step 2 – Apply binder and rub
Brush a thin layer of yellow mustard over both sides of the ribs. Sprinkle BBQ rub generously over all sides. Press gently.
Step 3 – Rest
Let seasoned ribs sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.
Step 4 – Preheat oven (oven method)
Preheat oven to 300°F. Line a baking sheet with foil.
Step 5 – Bake ribs
Place ribs on the baking sheet. Pour apple juice into the bottom of the pan (not over the ribs). Cover tightly with foil. Bake for 2.5 hours.
Step 6 – Apply BBQ sauce
Remove foil. Brush BBQ sauce generously over the ribs.
Step 7 – Finish baking
Return to oven (uncovered). Bake for another 20–30 minutes until sauce is sticky and caramelized.
Step 8 – Serve
Let rest for 10 minutes. Slice between bones and serve.
Pro Tip
For grill method: Cook over indirect heat at 275°F for 2.5 hours. Wrap in foil for 1 hour. Unwrap, sauce, and grill for 15 more minutes.