Powell Family Cooking

  • Recipe Index
  • Summer Recipes
  • Little Chefs
  • About Us
menu icon
go to homepage
  • Recipe Index
  • Summer Recipes
  • Little Chefs
  • About Us
subscribe
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipe Index
  • Summer Recipes
  • Little Chefs
  • About Us
×
You are here: Home / Recipes / Sauces & Seasonings

Foolproof Dry Rub for Oven-Baked Ribs

📋 Modified: Jul 10, 2024 Published: Jul 10, 2024 by 👩🏻‍🍳 Jami Powell · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Be the friend who shares good food.

  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Reddit
  • SMS
Jump to Recipe

Want fall-off-the-bone ribs without the hassle? This foolproof Dry Rub for Ribs in the Oven recipe delivers ultra-tender, flavor-packed ribs every time. A perfect balance of spices creates a deep, smoky taste—all without a smoker.

If you love this dry rub, try it on our Low and Slow Oven Baked Ribs for even juicier results, or use it to season slow-cooked pork ribs for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

dry rub for oven baked ribs hero image spices grouped by color on plate

Save This Recipe 💌

Enter your email below and we'll send it to your inbox. Plus, you'll get new recipes from us each week!

Dry rub for ribs is a popular method for seasoning pork ribs with a blend of spices before baking them. Oven-baked ribs are a convenient way to enjoy this delicious dish without the need for a grill.

Round out your meal with a side of classic coleslaw or Southern-Style Potato Salad. Pair it with Old Fashioned Skillet Cornbread for a true comfort-food feast, and don’t forget Baked Beans with Ground Beef to complete the spread!

Jump to:
  • Why We Love This Recipe
  • Dry Rub for Ribs Ingredients
  • Substitutions & Variations
  • How to Make a Foolproof Dry Rub for Oven-Baked Ribs
  • Expert Tips for Success
  • Storage
  • Recipe FAQs
  • More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
  • 📖 Recipe
  • 💬 Share Your Thoughts

Why We Love This Recipe

  • Flavorful: The perfect blend of spices creates the best flavor!
  • Super Tender Meat: Oven-baking ensures the ribs are incredibly tender.
  • Easy to Prepare: Simple steps make this recipe easy for all skill levels.
  • Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, entertaining, or weeknight meals.

Dry Rub for Ribs Ingredients

dry rub for oven baked ribs feature image spices grouped by color on plate
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a robust flavor base.
  • Onion Powder: Enhances the savory taste.
  • Chili Powder: Brings a mild heat and rich color.
  • Ground Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy depth.
  • Smoked Paprika: Infuses a subtle smokiness.
  • Brown Sugar: Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness.
  • Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Provides a sharp, pungent kick.
  • Kosher Salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
  • Dry Mustard: Adds a tangy undertone.

A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.

Substitutions & Variations

  • Smoked Paprika: Can be replaced with regular paprika or chipotle powder for a spicier kick.
  • Diet-Friendly: Use a low-sodium salt substitute and sugar-free brown sugar alternatives.
  • Flavor: Add cayenne pepper for extra heat or cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
  • Cooking Methods: Cook the ribs in a slow cooker for a different texture.

How to Make a Foolproof Dry Rub for Oven-Baked Ribs

dry rub for oven baked ribs process shot 1 mixing spices

STEP 1: Gather the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of garlic powder, ½ cup of onion powder, ½ cup of chili powder, ¼ cup of ground cumin, ¼ cup of smoked paprika, ¾ cup of brown sugar, ¼ cup of freshly ground black pepper, 2 tablespoons plus 2 teaspoons of kosher salt, and 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon of dry mustard. Mix thoroughly to ensure all the spices are evenly distributed.

Transfer the mixed dry rub to an airtight container. This rub can be stored for several months in a cool, dry place, making it easy to use whenever you’re ready to make ribs.

dry rub for oven baked ribs process shot 2 removing membrane from ribs

STEP 2: Remove the Membrane

Prepare the ribs by removing the membrane from the back.

dry rub for oven baked ribs process shot 3 dry rub applied

STEP 3: Apply the Dry Rub

Generously apply up to ½ cup of the prepared dry rub to each slab, coating both sides thoroughly.

dry rub for oven baked ribs process shot 4 ribs wrapped in foil

STEP 4: Bake or Grill

Use the Foil Method for Low and Slow Oven Baked Ribs.

Expert Tips for Success

👩‍🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!

✔️ DO Let the ribs sit with the dry rub overnight in the fridge. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.
✔️ DO Always remove the membrane from the ribs to ensure the rub adheres properly.

Storage

  1. Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the dry rub to an airtight container to prevent moisture and clumping.
  2. Store in a Cool, Dry Place: Keep the container in a cool, dry place like a pantry, away from heat and sunlight.
  3. Label and Date: Label the container with the contents and date. Spices stay potent for up to six months if stored properly.
  4. Avoid Contamination: Use a clean, dry spoon when scooping out the rub to avoid introducing moisture.
  5. Freezer Option: Transfer the dry rub to an airtight container or a freezer bag and keep it in the freezer for extended freshness.

Recipe FAQs

How do I make dry rub for ribs in the oven?

To make dry rub ribs in the oven, start by removing the membrane from the ribs. Mix your dry rub ingredients and generously apply the rub to both sides of the ribs. Place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil, cover with another piece of foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours.

Can I leave the dry rub on ribs overnight?

Yes, leaving the dry rub on ribs overnight in the refrigerator allows the flavors to penetrate the meat more deeply, resulting in more flavorful and tender ribs. Simply apply the rub, cover the ribs with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight before baking.

What is the best temperature to cook ribs in the oven?

The best temperature to cook ribs in the oven is between 275°F and 300°F (150°C). This low and slow method ensures the ribs become tender and flavorful. For finishing, you can increase the temperature to caramelize the BBQ sauce.

dry rub for oven baked ribs image of ribs baked with sauce

More Recipes You'll Love ♥️

  • Apple grape salad in elegant glass dessert bowls with toppings.
    Apple Grape Salad with Brown Sugar and Pecans (No Mayo)
  • Pulled pork bbq with juices in white bowl with a large silver fork and cloth towel.
    Best Instant Pot Pulled Pork
  • Crispy Cajun Fried Chicken in white bowl on top of paper towel feature image close up.
    Best Cajun Fried Chicken Recipe
  • Homemade southern style chicken and dumplings recipe process shot 4. Making the gravy.
    Homemade Southern Chicken and Dumplings Recipe

Did You Like This BBQ Rib Rub Recipe?

  • Leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Star Rating if think this barbecue rub for ribs is amazing!

📖 Recipe

dry rub for oven baked ribs feature image spices grouped by color on plate

Best BBQ Rub Recipe

Jami Powell
When it comes to making ribs at home, this Foolproof and Easy Dry Rub For Oven-Baked Ribs guarantees super tender and flavorful results every time. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this recipe is designed to be simple yet delicious, ensuring your ribs are a hit with everyone at the table.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 15 minutes mins
Course Seasoning
Cuisine American
Servings 8
Calories 253 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Knife

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup garlic powder
  • ½ cup onion powder
  • ½ cup chili powder
  • ¼ cup ground cumin
  • ¼ cup smoked paprika
  • ¾ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons + 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon dry mustard

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the barbecue rub by mixing garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, ground cumin, regular paprika, brown sugar, black pepper, salt, and dry mustard.
  • Apply the rub generously to both sides of the ribs or beef of choice, pressing it into the meat.
  • Cook the ribs according to your preferred method, whether grilling, smoking, or baking, until they reach a safe internal temperature for tender, juicy meat.

Save This Recipe 💌

Enter your email below and we'll send it to your inbox. Plus, you'll get new recipes from us each week!

Notes

Storage Transfer the mixed dry rub to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Freeze Transfer the dry rub to an airtight container or a freezer bag and keep it in the freezer for extended freshness.
Reheat No reheating is required.
Substitutions
  • Smoked Paprika: Can be replaced with regular paprika or chipotle powder for a spicier kick.
  • Kosher Salt: Sea salt can be used if kosher salt is unavailable.
Adjustments Cooking time may need to be adjusted based on the geography of the area (high vs. low elevation), cookware (stoneware vs traditional bakeware), and outdoor temperature if grilling.
Nutrition information is only an estimate

Nutrition

Calories: 253kcalCarbohydrates: 54gProtein: 8gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 2023mgPotassium: 874mgFiber: 11gSugar: 23gVitamin A: 6181IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 217mgIron: 10mg
Did you make this recipe?Tag @powell.family.cooking on Instagram

Other Related Recipes

  • Garlic parmesan wings with garnish on a plate beside garlic parmesan dipping sauce.
    Garlic Parmesan Wing Sauce for Wings, Tenders, or Dipping
  • Quick and easy cranberry compote recipe ready in 10 minutes feature image close up in decorative dish with spoon
    Quick and Easy Cranberry Compote Recipe
  • Brown Butter Sauce for Butternut Squash Ravioli
    Quick Sage Brown Butter Sauce for Butternut Squash Ravioli
  • Easy cowboy butter recipe feature image close up in dish being dipped with a spoon
    Cowboy Steak Butter Recipe

Be the friend who shares good food.

  • Share
  • Tweet
  • Reddit
  • SMS

Comments

No Comments

5 from 1 vote (1 rating without comment)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Professional image of the Powell family sitting on a rock at the beach.

This is us. ♥️
We began this journey together in 2020, not really knowing which direction to take. Much has changed over the years, but we remain dedicated to this endeavor. We hope you continue to visit.

More about us →

Summer Recipes

  • An Italian white bean salad in a wooden salad bowl with garnish.
    Italian White Bean Salad with Parmesan Vinaigrette
  • Panzanella salad on a white platter topped with burrata cheese, basil, and seasoning.
    Burrata Panzanella Platter with Heirloom Tomatoes
  • Quinoa cucumber salad with chickpeas, feta, and herbs in a decorative wooden bowl.
    Quinoa Cucumber Salad with Chickpeas, Feta, and Herbs
  • Fresh fruit salad tossed in a glass bowl and ready to serve.
    Fresh Fruit Salad with Honey Lime Dressing
  • Crunchy cucumber salad with garnish in a white bowl.
    Crunchy Cucumber Salad with Peanut Dressing
  • Elote corn dip in molcajete bowl with garnish and chips.
    Creamy Elote Corn Dip (Mexican Street Corn Salad)
See more Summer →

Popular Recipes

  • A feature image of the scallop recipe with the linguine being twirled around a fork.
    Easy Bay Scallop Pasta Recipe (Lemon & Garlic Sauce)
  • Beef stroganoff without mushrooms feature image close up in skillet
    Creamy Beef Stroganoff without Mushrooms
  • garbanzo bean soup recipe with chorizo feature image close up
    Cuban Garbanzo Bean Soup with Chorizo
  • Feature image of fried grouper cheeks on a wire rack.
    Grouper Cheeks Recipe (Fried to Perfection)!
  • Bacon and Green Beans on a plate.
    Quick & Easy Southern Bacon and Green Beans
  • Sartin's signature deep fried bbq blue crabs copycat recipe feature image close up of fried crabs on platter on back deck next to a glass of white wine
    Sartin’s Signature Deep Fried BBQ Blue Crabs: Copycat Recipe

Footer

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Mailing List

  • Subscribe

Contact

  • Email

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2025 Powell Family Cooking, LLC

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non-necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
SAVE & ACCEPT

Rate This Recipe

Your vote:




A rating is required
A name is required
An email is required

Recipe Ratings without Comment

Something went wrong. Please try again.