These Easy Baked Country-Style Pork Ribs are so tender and delicious! With a tasty seasoning mix and a simple bake, they turn out juicy and full of flavor without any fuss.
When I make these ribs, I can’t help but sneak a few bites before serving. They’re that good! Pair them with some coleslaw for a fun meal—and don’t forget the napkins! 😉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Country-style pork ribs are great because they’re meaty and tender. If you can’t find them, you could try using baby back ribs or spare ribs, but cooking times may vary.
Olive Oil: This helps the spices stick to the ribs. You can replace it with vegetable oil or melted butter if you prefer.
Spices: The paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano mix gives fantastic flavor. You can switch any of these out for your favorite spices, like chili powder or Italian seasoning.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds some heat! If you’re not into spicy, you can leave it out or use just a pinch.
Barbecue Sauce: Use any BBQ sauce you like! Homemade or store-bought both work. I love a sweet and tangy sauce for these ribs.
How Do I Get My Ribs Tender and Juicy?
The key to getting your ribs tender is low and slow cooking. Cooking at 300°F allows the meat to break down without drying out.
- Patting the ribs dry helps the seasoning stick, so don’t skip this step!
- Covering the dish with aluminum foil traps moisture, which is crucial for tenderness. Keep it covered for most of the cooking time.
- Let the ribs rest after cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, making sure every bite is juicy!
How to Make Easy Baked Country-Style Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 3 pounds country-style pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Seasoning Mix:
- 1 tablespoon 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 little heat)
For Serving:
- Optional: barbecue sauce, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then 2 to 2.5 hours to bake. Don’t worry; most of that time is hands-off, and you can set the timer and relax while they cook!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This gentle heat will make your ribs tender and juicy.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels. This step helps the delicious seasoning stick better to the meat.
3. Make the Seasoning Mix:
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper if you want a little kick. Mix everything together well.
4. Season the Ribs:
Pour the olive oil over the ribs and rub it all over them until they’re well-coated. Now, sprinkle the seasoning mixture evenly on all sides of the ribs, gently massaging it into the meat, so every bite is full of flavor.
5. Arrange the Ribs:
Place the ribs in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer. It’s important not to stack them, as this helps them cook evenly.
6. Cover and Bake:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This keeps the moisture in and helps the ribs become tender. Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 to 2.5 hours.
7. Optional Broiling:
If you like a nice glaze, remove the foil after baking, brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce, and pop them under the broiler for 3–5 minutes. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
8. Let Them Rest:
Once done, take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This gives the juices time to redistribute in the meat, making them even more delicious!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the ribs hot alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! While country-style pork ribs are ideal for this recipe, you can also use baby back ribs or spare ribs. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary—baby back ribs typically cook faster than country-style ribs.
Can I Marinate the Ribs Overnight?
Yes, marinating the ribs overnight can enhance their flavor! Just follow the seasoning instructions and place the ribs in an airtight container or a resealable bag. Let them marinate in the fridge, then proceed with baking as directed the next day.
What Can I Serve Alongside These Ribs?
These ribs pair perfectly with sides like coleslaw, baked beans, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter option, consider a fresh garden salad or grilled corn on the cob.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven at 250°F (120°C) until heated through, or microwave them in short intervals, covered, to retain moisture.
