How Long to Cook Ribs in the Oven

If you want tender ribs, just remember, “Low and slow.”

That means low heat, for several hours. That’s what’s needed to break down the meat’s connective tissues.  

Roasting ribs in the oven helps to produce “bark” on the outside and tender meat on the inside. To cook ribs in the oven, you’ll set the temperature to 275 degrees F.

Plan to have something to do at home while the ribs cook for 4-5 hours. Maybe clean your garage? (This editor thinks that’s a brilliant idea and will be offering ribs to her hubby in exchange for his help with the garage!)

How to Cook Ribs in the Oven

1. Preheat the oven to 275°F.
2. Place your pork ribs (baby backs or St. Louis) on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil (for easier cleanup).
3. If using a rub, mix the ingredients together and rub them all over both sides of the ribs.
4. Bake the ribs for 4-5 hours.
5. About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, brush them with some BBQ sauce and return them to the oven.
6. When the ribs come out of the oven, brush them with more BBQ sauce and let them cool slightly before slicing into sections. 
7. Store leftover ribs in the refrigerator for up to four days.

How Long to Cook Ribs in the Oven at 400°F

If you need to use a higher temperature, you can wrap the ribs in foil and cook them for 1 ½ hours at 400°F.

How Long to Cook Ribs in the Oven at 350°F

It will take two hours to cook ribs in the oven at 350°F.

How Long to Cook Ribs in the Oven at 300°F

Bake ribs in the oven at 300°F for 2 1/2 to 3 1/2 hours.

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