Baked Southern Roadhouse Ribs

1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).

2. Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This will make them more tender.

3. In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt.

4. Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs, ensuring to cover all surfaces.

5. Wrap the ribs tightly in aluminum foil, creating a sealed packet to trap in the moisture and flavors.

6. Place the wrapped ribs on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender.

7. Carefully remove the ribs from the oven and discard the foil. Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce.

8. Turn your oven to broil and place the ribs back in for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has caramelized and becomes slightly sticky.

9. Remove from the oven and let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

For a smokier flavor, try adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke to your barbecue sauce. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce before broiling. For a sweeter rendition, glaze the ribs with a honey-barbecue mixture during the final broil.