Keto Pork Ribs

This Oven Baked Ribs Recipe is made with spare ribs, olive oil, brown sugar, paprika, cumin, oregano, onion powder and cayenne powder.

Ribs traditionally refers to barbecue pork ribs, but sometimes can be beef ribs. My personal favorite cut of ribs is St. Louis cut ribs with the rib tips removed. For this recipe, we are using pork ribs and can be served with a barbecue sauce. I lived in San Antonio, Texas for four years of my life, and ever since I have always had a huge appreciation for southern style food. Making good barbecue ribs takes time and patience, but it is easy to master if you follow these instructions.  

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Keto Beef Stroganoff or my Keto Burger Recipe.

Jump to:

• What are ribs and their benefits?
• Why you will love this recipe
• Oven Baked Ribs Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Oven Baked Ribs
• What to serve with Oven Baked Ribs
• Substitutions
• Oven Baked Ribs Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Oven Baked Ribs
• Oven Baked Ribs Recipe Top tips
• Oven Baked Ribs Recipe
• Food safety

What are ribs and their benefits?

Ribs refer to the bony, meaty section of the pig, cow, or lamb that is often used in cooking. They are typically prepared by slow-cooking, grilling, or smoking, and are a popular dish in many cultures around the world. Ribs are a good source of protein and essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. They can be enjoyed as part of a healthy and balanced diet in moderation. However, it is important to note that some types of ribs can be high in fat and calories, so it's best to choose leaner cuts and avoid excessive amounts of added sauces and seasonings.

Why you will love this recipe

• Oven baked ribs are a healthier alternative to grilled or fried ribs as they are cooked with less oil and fats, reducing the overall calorie intake.
• They can be cooked all year round, regardless of the weather or availability of an outdoor grill.
• Oven baked ribs are easy to prepare and require minimal hands-on attention, allowing you to multitask or prepare other dishes while they cook.
• They result in tender and juicy meat that falls off the bone, thanks to the slow cooking process that allows the flavors to develop and infuse into the meat.
• Oven baked ribs can be customized with a variety of marinades, rubs, and sauces to suit your taste preferences, making them a versatile and customizable meal option.

Oven Baked Ribs Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Brown sugar
• Paprika
• Black pepper
• Cumin
• Oregano
• Salt
• Onion powder
• Cayenne
• Spareribs
• Olive oil

See recipe card for Oven Baked Ribs Recipe quantities.

How to make Oven Baked Ribs

Hint: When you take off the membrane, feel free to use a knife to gently slide under the membrane and then using your fingers, pull the membrane away from the bones. Sometimes it can be slippery, so feel free to use a paper towel to hold it with the other hand as you pull.

*If you love this recipe, feel free to try more Keto Recipes for weight loss.

What to serve with Oven Baked Ribs

• Corn on the cob: Boiled, grilled, or roasted corn on the cob is a classic and easy side dish that pairs well with ribs.
• Baked beans: A classic side dish that is hearty and filling, baked beans go great with the smoky flavors of oven baked ribs.
• Coleslaw: The crunch and tanginess of coleslaw is the perfect balance to the richness of the ribs.
• Potato salad: Creamy and satisfying, potato salad is a classic barbecue side that complements the flavors of the ribs.
• Mac and cheese: The ultimate comfort food, mac and cheese is a great side dish for ribs and can be made in a variety of ways.
• Grilled vegetables: Grilling vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant alongside the ribs is a healthy and tasty way to round out the meal.
• Garlic bread: A simple and delicious side, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover barbecue sauce.
• Salad: A light and refreshing salad can help balance out the richness of the ribs and provide some much-needed greens.

Substitutions

These are great substitutions for my Oven Baked Ribs Recipe:

• Brown sugar: You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar, honey, maple syrup, molasses, or agave nectar. These options will provide the sweetness and caramelization that brown sugar gives to the ribs.
• Paprika: Paprika adds smokiness and color to the ribs. If you don't have paprika, you can use smoked paprika, chili powder, or cayenne pepper.
• Black pepper: Black pepper adds heat and depth of flavor to the ribs. You can substitute it with white pepper or red pepper flakes if you prefer.
• Cumin: Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor to the ribs. You can substitute it with chili powder or coriander if you don't have cumin.
• Oregano: Oregano adds a slightly sweet and minty flavor to the ribs. If you don't have oregano, you can use thyme, marjoram, or basil.
• Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the ribs. You can use sea salt, kosher salt, or any type of table salt.
• Onion powder: Onion powder adds a savory, slightly sweet flavor to the ribs. If you don't have onion powder, you can use garlic powder or chopped fresh onion.
• Cayenne: Cayenne adds heat and a bit of tanginess to the ribs. You can substitute it with hot sauce, chili powder, or red pepper flakes.
• Spareribs: You can use baby back ribs or St. Louis-style ribs instead of spareribs.
• Olive oil: You can use any neutral oil like vegetable oil or canola oil instead of olive oil. Alternatively, you can use melted butter or bacon grease for added flavor.

Oven Baked Ribs Recipe Variations

• Honey Garlic Ribs: Add honey and minced garlic to your dry rub and baste with a honey-garlic glaze while baking.
• BBQ Ribs: Use your favorite BBQ sauce and brush onto the ribs during the last 30 minutes of baking.
• Spicy Ribs: Add chili powder, cayenne pepper, and hot sauce to your dry rub and baste with a spicy glaze while baking.
• Asian-Style Ribs: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to your dry rub and brush with a hoisin sauce glaze while baking.
• Herb-Crusted Ribs: Add thyme, rosemary, and sage to your dry rub and bake with a drizzle of olive oil.
• Beer-Braised Ribs: Add beer and onions to the bottom of your baking dish and place the ribs on top. Bake until tender and baste with a beer and BBQ sauce mixture.
• Mustard-Glazed Ribs: Brush the ribs with Dijon mustard before applying the dry rub and bake until tender. Baste with a honey-mustard glaze while baking.
• Pineapple Teriyaki Ribs: Add canned pineapple and teriyaki sauce to the bottom of your baking dish and place the ribs on top. Bake until tender and baste with more teriyaki sauce while baking.

Equipment

• Baking sheet or roasting pan: This is used to hold the ribs while they are cooking.
• Aluminum foil: Foil is used to wrap the ribs and prevent them from drying out.
• Meat thermometer: A meat thermometer is used to check the internal temperature of the ribs to ensure they are cooked thoroughly.
• Oven: Ribs are baked in an oven, so you will need access to one.
• Basting brush: A basting brush is used to apply the sauce to the ribs during the cooking process.
• Oven mitts or potholders: These are used to protect your hands when handling the hot baking sheet or roasting pan.

How to store Oven Baked Ribs

To store oven-baked ribs, let them cool to room temperature, then wrap them tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place them in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag and store them in the refrigerator for up to four days. You can also freeze the ribs for longer storage. Wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. The ribs can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat the ribs, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, then remove the wrapping and reheat in the oven or on the grill until heated through.

Oven Baked Ribs Recipe Top tips

• Remove the membrane: Before seasoning your ribs, it’s important to remove the thin membrane on the underside of the rack. This will help your seasoning penetrate the meat and make it more tender.
• Season generously: Make sure to season your ribs generously with your preferred spice rub or dry seasoning mix. This will give your ribs flavor and help form a delicious crust.
• Use a baking rack: Placing your ribs on a baking rack will allow for even cooking and help prevent the bottom from burning.
• Cover with foil: After seasoning, cover your ribs with foil to keep them from drying out while they cook.
• Use a low and slow cooking method: Cooking your ribs at a low temperature (around 300-325°F) for a long period of time (2-3 hours) will help make them tender and flavorful.
• Baste with sauce: During the last 30 minutes of cooking, baste your ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce for added flavor and a sticky glaze.
• Rest before serving: Once your ribs are done, let them rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting into them. This will help the juices redistribute and keep them from drying out.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.