how long to bake ribs at 400

Baking ribs at 400°F (200°C) can result in a deliciously tender and caramelized finish. The baking time will depend on the type of ribs you’re using and your desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines:

Baby Back Ribs:

• 20-25 minutes per pound, or about 40-50 minutes for a 2-pound rack.
• Wrap the ribs in foil for the first 30 minutes to prevent overcooking and promote tenderization.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-20 minutes to caramelize the surface.

St. Louis-Style Pork Ribs:

• 25-30 minutes per pound, or about 50-60 minutes for a 2-pound rack.
• Wrap the ribs in foil for the first 40 minutes to prevent overcooking and promote tenderization.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-20 minutes to caramelize the surface.

Spare Ribs:

• 30-35 minutes per pound, or about 60-70 minutes for a 2-pound rack.
• Wrap the ribs in foil for the first 50 minutes to prevent overcooking and promote tenderization.
• Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-20 minutes to caramelize the surface.

Important Notes:

• Always preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) before baking the ribs.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the ribs reaches 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
• If you prefer a more tender and fall-off-the-bone texture, you can wrap the ribs in foil and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2-3 hours.
• Keep an eye on the ribs during the last 10-20 minutes of baking, as the surface can quickly go from perfectly caramelized to burnt.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and the optimal baking time may vary depending on your specific oven and the ribs you’re using.