These oven-baked BBQ boneless country-style pork ribs are tender and bursting with flavor! The sweet and tangy barbecue sauce makes every bite a celebration.
Honestly, I can hardly resist sneaking one before dinner! Pair them with coleslaw and cornbread for a true meal to remember. It’s so easy to make, you’ll want to whip it up often!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Country Style Pork Ribs: These are meaty and tender, perfect for this recipe. If you can’t find them, try using pork tenderloin or boneless pork chops instead, though cooking times may vary.
BBQ Sauce: Choose your favorite kind, but homemade BBQ sauce can elevate the flavors! For a healthier option, look for low-sugar or low-sodium BBQ sauces.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the spices stick, but you can use any cooking oil like canola or avocado if needed.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika create a rich taste. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works, but you might miss out on that smoky flavor.
Apple Cider Vinegar: This is optional but enhances tanginess. You can replace it with lemon juice for a similar effect if you don’t have it on hand.
How Do I Ensure My Ribs Stay Tender?
The secret to tender ribs lies in the low and slow cooking method. Keeping the oven temperature at 300°F lets the meat cook gently, breaking down tough fibers. Here are some quick tips:
- Cover the ribs tightly with foil during the first cooking phase to trap steam and moisture.
- Skip the initial sear; instead, focus on that slow bake for at least 2 hours at 300°F.
- Check for tenderness by pricking the meat; it should be slightly soft but not falling apart.
By following these steps, you’ll achieve deliciously tender ribs every time!
Oven Baked BBQ Boneless Country Style Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 lbs boneless country style pork ribs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for extra tang)
- Freshly chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 2 hours and 20 minutes to cook. You’ll start with slow baking at a low temperature to keep the ribs tender, followed by a quick bake at a higher temperature to caramelize the BBQ sauce. It’s a simple but delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). While the oven heats, grab a large mixing bowl. In it, combine the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you want that extra tang, go ahead and mix in the apple cider vinegar too.
2. Coat the Ribs:
Now, add the boneless country style pork ribs to your bowl. Use clean hands or tongs to toss and coat the ribs evenly with your spice mixture. Make sure they are well-covered with flavor!
3. Bake the Ribs:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil and place the ribs on it in a single layer. Cover the baking sheet tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in your preheated oven for about 2 hours. This slow cooking will keep your ribs super tender and juicy.
4. Glaze the Ribs:
After 2 hours, take the ribs out and remove the foil. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the ribs. Then, turn up the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C) and return the ribs back to the oven, uncovered, for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will make your sauce sticky and caramelized, which is delicious!
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the ribs are glazed and looking awesome, take them out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. If you like, slice the ribs, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for color, and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Use Bone-In Ribs Instead?
Yes, you can use bone-in ribs! Just note that bone-in ribs will take a bit longer to cook. Allow an extra 30-45 minutes in the oven to ensure they reach the appropriate tenderness. Make sure to check for doneness by ensuring they are tender and the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C).
What BBQ Sauce Works Best?
Feel free to use any BBQ sauce you love! Sweet, tangy, or smoky varieties all work well. You can also experiment by combining different sauces for a unique flavor. If you prefer homemade, a simple mix of ketchup, vinegar, brown sugar, and your choice of spices can be delicious!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through. You can add a splash of BBQ sauce while reheating to keep them moist and flavorful.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker version, simply coat the ribs with the spice mixture and place them in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Brush the BBQ sauce on them during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a great glaze.
