These Easy Baked Country-Style Pork Ribs are juicy and packed with flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that everyone will love.
I love how these ribs bake in the oven while I kick back on the couch. The smell alone makes my mouth water! You won’t believe how easy they are to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Country-style Pork Ribs: These are the star of the dish! They’re meaty and can be quite tender when cooked properly. If you can’t find country-style ribs, you can use back ribs or spare ribs, but the cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps to enrich the flavor and helps the seasoning stick nicely to the ribs. If you’re looking for a lighter option, avocado oil or canola oil work too.
Spices: I love using paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder as a combo—they really enhance the flavors. You can substitute smoked paprika for a deeper smoky flavor or use fresh minced garlic and onion instead for a fresher taste. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste!
Cayenne Pepper: This is optional, but it adds a nice kick! If spicy food isn’t your thing, skip it or add a dash of black pepper instead.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade barbecue sauce to brush on at the end. For a healthier option, consider using a sugar-free or low-sugar barbecue sauce.
How Do I Ensure My Ribs Are Tender and Juicy?
Cooking ribs properly is key for that tender, fall-off-the-bone experience. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Drying the Ribs: Patting the ribs dry with paper towels helps the oil and seasoning stick better.
- Cooking Temperature: Baking at 350°F is great for getting the ribs tender without drying them out. Avoid higher temperatures, which might make them tough.
- Turning the Ribs: Don’t skip the halfway turn! This allows for even cooking and ensures both sides get nice and crispy.
- Resting: Letting the ribs rest for about 5 minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, making them extra juicy when you cut in!
Easy Baked Country-Style Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 pounds country-style pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a bit of heat
- Optional: barbecue sauce for brushing (about 1/2 cup)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 1 hour and 15 minutes for cooking, making a total time of about 1 hour and 25 minutes. Perfect for a cozy evening meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This helps get the cooking process started right!
2. Mix the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want a little kick. This blend will give your ribs a delicious flavor.
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Take the country-style pork ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is important because it helps the oil and spices stick better. Rub the olive oil all over the ribs until they’re evenly coated.
4. Season the Ribs:
Now, take your spice mixture and generously coat each rib. Make sure all sides of the ribs are covered so that every bite is flavorful!
5. Place in the Baking Dish:
Arrange the seasoned ribs in a single layer in a baking dish or a roasting pan. It’s important that they aren’t overcrowded to ensure even cooking.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Once your oven is ready, bake the ribs uncovered for 1 hour and 15 minutes. Halfway through, make sure to turn them over to cook evenly on both sides.
7. Optional BBQ Sauce:
If you like BBQ sauce, brush it onto the ribs about 10 minutes before they’re done cooking. Return the ribs to the oven to let the sauce caramelize and get sticky.
8. Let Them Rest:
After the ribs are cooked through and tender, take them out of the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices settle, making the ribs extra juicy!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Cut the ribs and serve them hot with your favorite sides. Enjoy your flavorful, tender, and easy baked country-style pork ribs!
FAQ for Easy Baked Country-Style Pork Ribs
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While country-style pork ribs are great for this recipe, you can also use spare ribs or baby back ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly. Make sure to check for tenderness!
What Can I Substitute for Olive Oil?
If you’re looking for an alternative to olive oil, you can use avocado oil, canola oil, or even melted butter. Each option will give a slightly different flavor, but they’ll all work well to help the seasoning stick!
Can I Make These Ribs in Advance?
Yes! You can prep the ribs and season them a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. You may need to let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or use a microwave for quicker reheating. You can add a splash of BBQ sauce to keep them moist!
