These Baked Country Style Ribs are juicy, tender, and full of flavor! With a tangy barbecue sauce that caramelizes as it cooks, they’re perfect for any dinner.
Whipping these up is super easy! Just season, bake, and let the oven do all the magic—your home will smell amazing! Can’t get enough? Pair them with some coleslaw for a tasty meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Countrystyle Pork Ribs: These ribs are juicy and flavorful. If you can’t find them, feel free to use baby back ribs or spare ribs. Both work well and will still result in a delicious meal.
Olive Oil: I love using olive oil for its flavor, but you can substitute it with vegetable oil or canola oil if you prefer something neutral or a bit lighter.
Onion: A large onion adds sweetness when sautéed. You can swap it with shallots for a milder taste or even use a couple of leeks for an interesting twist.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a nice kick. If you can’t access fresh garlic, use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove needed.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite store-bought sauce, or make your own for a personal touch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, a sugar-free sauce can work too. For a change, use teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Make Sure My Ribs Turn Out Tender?
Getting tender ribs is all about low and slow cooking. This method really helps break down the connective tissues, making them melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Here’s how to nail it:
- Keep your oven temperature low at 300°F (150°C) for most of the cooking time.
- Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap steam, which keeps the ribs moist.
- Avoid peeking into the oven! This can release heat and moisture, which can hinder the cooking process.
- When it’s time to caramelize, raising the temperature to 400°F (200°C) helps get a nice crust on the ribs for flavor.
How to Make Baked Country Style Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
- Fresh rosemary or parsley, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 3 hours for baking, and an additional 15-20 minutes to caramelize the ribs. So, set aside about 3 hours and 30 minutes total for a tasty meal that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low and slow cooking will help make the ribs tender and flavorful.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In a large baking dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until they become translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute—just until it becomes fragrant. This will create a delicious base for your ribs!
3. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Rub this flavorful spice mixture all over the country-style ribs, making sure to coat them well for maximum flavor.
4. Assemble the Dish:
Next, place the seasoned ribs in the baking dish on top of the sautéed onions and garlic. Pour the barbecue sauce over the ribs, then add the chicken broth or water to the dish. This liquid will keep the ribs moist while they bake. Yum!
5. Cover and Bake:
Tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. This step is essential to ensure your ribs stay juicy. Bake in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, until the ribs are tender and cooked through.
6. Caramelize the Ribs:
After 3 hours, carefully remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the ribs have a nice caramelized appearance. This will create a mouth-watering finish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once finished, let the ribs rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh rosemary or parsley. Serve them up and enjoy your delicious baked country style ribs!
Can I Substitute Another Type of Meat?
Absolutely! If you prefer beef or chicken, you can use those instead of pork ribs. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; for beef short ribs, you may need a bit longer, while chicken might require less time. Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure safety!
What if I Don’t Have Smoked Paprika?
No problem! You can use regular paprika mixed with a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat and smokiness. Alternatively, try using liquid smoke in your barbecue sauce for that smoky flavor without the smoked paprika!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the ribs a day in advance. Just follow the first several steps, then cover and refrigerate the ribs with the marinade overnight. When you’re ready to cook, simply bring the ribs to room temperature before baking!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat them in the oven wrapped in foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can enjoy them cold right from the fridge!
