Italian Sausage-Style Baby Back Ribs

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Italian Sausage-Style Baby Back Ribs.

1. Step 1

   Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 275°F (135°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with aluminum foil for easy cleanup later. This is where the magic begins!

2. Step 2

   In a small bowl, mix together the fennel seeds, black pepper, white sugar, garlic salt, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper. This spice rub is going to give your ribs a delightful kick!

3. Step 3

   Take your trimmed baby back ribs and place them on the prepared baking sheet. With a sharp paring knife, carefully cut several shallow slits in the membrane along the backs of the ribs. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat. Now, generously rub the spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs, ensuring every inch is coated with that aromatic goodness.

4. Step 4

   Pop the ribs into the preheated oven and let them bake for about 1.5 hours. After that, flip them over and continue baking until a fork easily inserts between the bones, which should take another 1 to 1.5 hours. Once done, set them aside to cool completely for about an hour. This step is crucial for achieving that tender, fall-off-the-bone texture!

5. Step 5

   While the ribs are cooling, let’s whip up the glaze. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the brown sugar, orange juice, rice wine vinegar, orange zest, and hot chile paste. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it reduces by half, which should take about 5 minutes. The aroma will be irresistible!

6. Step 6

   Now, increase your oven temperature to a sizzling 425°F (220°C) and line another baking sheet with aluminum foil. This will be the final stage for your ribs!

7. Step 7

   Cut the rib racks into individual ribs and toss them in a large bowl with the glaze until they are evenly coated. Don’t be shy with that glaze; it’s what makes these ribs shine!

8. Step 8

   Arrange the glazed ribs on the prepared baking sheet. If you have any leftover glaze, keep it in the bowl for basting later.

9. Step 9

   Bake the glazed ribs for about 5 minutes, then flip them over, brush with the remaining glaze, and bake until they are beautifully browned, which should take another 5 to 10 minutes. The result? A sticky, sweet, and spicy rib that’s sure to impress!