These easy baked country-style pork ribs are simple yet packed with flavor! Slow-cooked to perfection, they’re juicy and fall-off-the-bone tender, just how we love our ribs.
Get ready for some finger-licking goodness! I like to pair these with coleslaw and cornbread. Trust me, your taste buds will be dancing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Country-Style Pork Ribs: These ribs are thicker than regular pork ribs and cook beautifully in the oven. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you could use boneless chicken thighs instead.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika works too, but you might miss that smoky element. Spice lovers can use chipotle powder for a smokier kick.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but vegetable or canola oil are good alternatives too if you’re looking for a neutral taste.
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional for heat! If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to skip it or replace it with a dash of black pepper.
Barbecue Sauce: Using your favorite store-bought BBQ sauce is a great way to finish the ribs. If you have homemade sauce, it can make it even better!
How Can I Ensure My Ribs Are Perfectly Tender?
The key to tender ribs is low and slow cooking. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Preheat your oven properly to 300°F (150°C) to ensure even cooking.
- Cover the ribs tightly with foil while cooking. This traps steam and keeps the meat moist.
- Don’t rush the cooking time; 2.5 to 3 hours lets the fat break down, making the ribs tender.
- Finish with high heat to crisp up the exterior. This creates a nice contrast with the tender meat inside.
Remember, patience is key! Letting the ribs rest after baking is also important, as it helps keep them juicy when you cut into them.
Easy Baked Country-Style Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds country-style pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for glazing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 3 to 3.5 hours of cooking time. You’ll spend a little time seasoning the ribs, then let the oven do all the work for you. Perfect for a hassle-free meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). It’s essential to get it nice and warm before adding your ribs. While the oven heats, line a baking dish with foil or lightly grease it to keep things from sticking.
2. Mix the Seasonings:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme or Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you like some heat. This blend will add fantastic flavors to your ribs!
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better. Now, rub olive oil all over the ribs, making sure they’re well coated. Next, generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the ribs, pressing it in so it sticks to all sides.
4. Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Lay the seasoned ribs in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Make sure they’re not overcrowded to allow even cooking.
5. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap in the moisture. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2.5 to 3 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re tender and cooked through.
6. Glaze and Crisp:
After baking, take off the foil and, if you’d like, brush on your favorite barbecue sauce for a sticky glaze. Then, increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C) and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes. This will help caramelize the sauce and give a nice crispness to the ribs.
7. Rest and Serve:
Once done, take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy. Serve with your favorite sides, and enjoy your delicious meal!
With this simple method, you’ll have tender, juicy pork ribs with a flavorful crust that are sure to please everyone at your table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Type of Pork Rib?
Yes, you can! While country-style ribs work best for this recipe, you could also use spare ribs or baby back ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary; spare ribs typically take longer to become tender.
What If I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No worries! If you don’t have smoked paprika, you can substitute it with regular paprika, though you might miss out on that smoky flavor. As an alternative, a mixture of equal parts paprika and cumin can add a similar depth of flavor.
Can I Prepare These Ribs in Advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the ribs and apply the seasoning up to 24 hours in advance. Cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just allow them to come to room temperature before cooking for the best results.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the oven will help maintain their crispy texture!
