Fall Apart Oven Baked Ribs with Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s the very definition of comfort food with a smoky kick, you’re in for a treat with the Fall Apart Oven Baked Ribs with Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe. These ribs are tender beyond belief, sliding off the bone with every bite, and the chipotle BBQ sauce brings a smoky, spicy, and slightly tangy kick that perfectly complements the richness of the pork. It’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary dinner into a celebration, perfect for family meals or impressing friends without hours by the grill.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting ready to make these mouthwatering ribs is delightfully simple because the ingredients are both accessible and thoughtfully chosen. Each one plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and that beautiful color that makes this dish irresistible.

• Sweet paprika: Adds a smoky sweetness and gorgeous red hue to the rub.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out natural meat flavors.
• Garlic powder: Gives a rich, savory depth to the spice mix.
• Black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
• Onion powder: Enhances the savory profile with a mild sweetness.
• Cayenne pepper: Provides a gentle spicy punch to awaken your taste buds.
• Dried thyme: Brings an earthy, herbal note to balance spices.
• Dried oregano: Adds a Mediterranean herbal touch that complements the pork.
• American style pork ribs: The star of the show, cut into individual ribs for even cooking.
• Dark beer: Provides moisture, depth, and a subtle malty sweetness to the baking liquid.
• Crushed tomato: Forms the rich base of the chipotle BBQ sauce.
• Chipotle in Adobo Sauce: Brings smokiness and heat, defining the BBQ sauce flavor.
• Large onion: Adds sweetness and texture to the sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic punches up the aromatic intensity.
• Tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• Brown sugar: Balances the heat with mellow sweetness and adds a sticky glaze.
• White wine vinegar: Gives the sauce a pleasant tang and brightness.
• Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and complexity.
• Tabasco sauce: Adds an adjustable level of heat and vinegar bite.
• Salt and black pepper: To season the sauce perfectly.
• Fresh coriander/cilantro leaves: For a fresh, herbal garnish.
• Lime wedges: Provide a zesty finish that brightens every bite.

How to Make Fall Apart Oven Baked Ribs with Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Herb and Spice Rub

Start by mixing all the dry rub ingredients in a bowl. This blend is what’s going to give your ribs that irresistible smoky and spicy foundation. The combination of paprika, garlic, and herbs will seep into every nook of the pork, so the flavors become part of the meat itself.

Step 2: Season the Ribs

Pat those pork ribs dry to help the rub stick beautifully. Rub each rib generously, pressing the spices firmly into the meat. If you have time, refrigerate the ribs covered for at least two hours or even overnight to really let the flavors penetrate deeply.

Step 3: Arrange Ribs in the Baking Dish

Lay your seasoned ribs in a large baking dish in a single layer. Don’t worry if they’re a little squished because they’ll shrink slightly during cooking. Arranging them in one layer ensures they cook evenly and soak up all the flavorful liquid they’ll bathe in next.

Step 4: Preheat and Prepare for Baking

Set your oven to 160C (325F) to create the perfect low and slow environment. This gentle heat is key to breaking down the collagen in the ribs so they become tender enough to fall off the bone.

Step 5: Braise the Ribs in Beer

Pour the dark beer over the ribs in the baking dish. Cover tightly with a lid or foil to trap the steam, then pop them into the oven. Let the ribs braise for one hour, soaking up the beer’s maltiness and becoming wonderfully juicy.

Step 6: Make the Chipotle BBQ Sauce

While your ribs are braising, whip up the sauce by combining crushed tomatoes, chipotle in Adobo, diced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, salt, and pepper. Simmer this mixture until it thickens to a jam-like consistency—this sauce is the heart and soul of your ribs.

Step 7: Coat the Ribs with Sauce

After an hour, carefully remove the lid and pour your smoky chipotle BBQ sauce all over the ribs. Return the baking dish to the oven uncovered, so the sauce can thicken and caramelize on the meat.

Step 8: Finish Baking

Bake the ribs uncovered for another 45 minutes to 1 hour and 15 minutes, turning once or twice. You’ll see the sauce thicken and stick to the ribs. The meat will become so tender that it will practically melt in your mouth. If the pan starts looking dry, add a splash of water to keep things moist.

Step 9: Optional Broil for a Beautiful Finish

If you want a little extra caramelized crunch, top your ribs under the broiler or grill for 5 to 10 minutes. This step is a game-changer for texture and appearance but totally optional if you prefer them super tender without crisp edges.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Once done, garnish your ribs with fresh coriander or cilantro leaves and a squeeze of lime wedges for a fresh, zesty lift that cuts through the richness beautifully.

How to Serve Fall Apart Oven Baked Ribs with Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh coriander leaves add herbal brightness while lime wedges offer a tart contrast that balances the smoky, spicy BBQ sauce perfectly. Together they brighten the whole dish, making each bite vibrant and fresh.

Side Dishes

Serve these Fall Apart Oven Baked Ribs with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery corn on the cob, or even a simple green salad. Mashed potatoes or baked beans also make excellent accompaniments that soak up any extra sauce on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these ribs on a wooden board surrounded by small bowls of extra chipotle sauce and dipping lime wedges. You can also create sliders by pulling the meat off the bones and serving it with pickled onions and crunchy slaw on mini buns.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover ribs store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to keep them submerged or coated in the chipotle BBQ sauce to retain moisture and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to save ribs for longer, wrap them tightly in foil before freezing in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat ribs gently in the oven at 300F (150C) covered with foil, adding a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture. Broiling for a few minutes at the end brings back a touch of that original caramelized finish.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ribs for this recipe?

Absolutely! While American style pork ribs work best because of their meatiness and texture, baby back ribs or spare ribs can also be used. Just adjust cooking time slightly depending on size and thickness.

Is it necessary to use beer in the recipe?

Beer adds a wonderful depth and complexity to the flavor and helps tenderize the meat, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with apple cider, cola, or even broth for a different but still tasty braising liquid.

How spicy is the chipotle BBQ sauce?

The sauce has a delightful smoky heat that warms the palate without overwhelming it. If you want milder ribs, use less chipotle in Adobo and Tabasco sauce, or remove seeds from the chipotle for less heat.

Can I make the rub and ribs ahead of time?

Yes! Rubbing the ribs and refrigerating them overnight actually enhances the flavor. This is a great way to prepare ahead for a special occasion or weekend meal.

What if I don’t have a broiler for the finishing step?

No worries! The ribs will still be delicious if you skip the broiler. The baking step will make them tender and flavorful, and you’ll still get that sticky, rich sauce coating the meat beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Trust me when I say the Fall Apart Oven Baked Ribs with Chipotle BBQ Sauce Recipe is one to keep in your recipe rotation. It’s deceptively easy, packed with layers of rich smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors, and results in meltingly tender ribs that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a weekend kitchen adventure, these ribs will not disappoint. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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