Country style ribs are a fantastic cut of pork that’s packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy meal. Despite the name, these ribs aren’t traditional ribs but come from the pork shoulder, making them meatier and often more tender when cooked right. Cooking them in the oven is one of the easiest ways to get juicy, fall-apart tender ribs with a delicious crust. Here’s a friendly, step-by-step guide on how to cook country style ribs in the oven that will make you a fan for life.
What Are Country Style Ribs?
Before we dive into cooking, it helps to know what you’re working with. Country style ribs are thick cuts from the pork shoulder, sometimes bone-in but often boneless. They have more fat marbling than regular ribs, which means extra flavor and tenderness when cooked low and slow. Because they come from the shoulder, they’re a bit tougher initially than baby back ribs but become wonderfully tender with the right cooking method.
Preparing Your Country Style Ribs for the Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 2 to 4 pounds of country style ribs (bone-in or boneless)
– Kosher salt
– Freshly ground black pepper
– Garlic powder
– Your favorite seasoning blend (smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, or a BBQ rub)
– Barbecue sauce (optional but highly recommended for finishing)
Step-by-Step Oven Cooking Method
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 325°F (165°C). This moderate temperature allows the ribs to cook slowly and become tender without drying out.
2. Season the Ribs
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick. Generously sprinkle kosher salt, black pepper, and garlic powder on all sides. Then, rub your chosen seasoning blend into the meat for maximum flavor penetration. This could be a smoky BBQ rub or a mix of smoked paprika, cayenne, and thyme for a little kick.
3. Arrange and Cover
Place the ribs in a single layer on a baking sheet or roasting pan lined with foil for easy cleanup. Make sure they aren’t crowded, so heat circulates evenly. Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture and create a steaming effect that tenderizes the meat.
4. Bake Low and Slow
Bake the ribs covered for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow roasting breaks down the connective tissue, making the ribs tender and juicy. After 2 hours, check the ribs with a fork or tongs-they should be tender enough to pull apart easily. If they’re still tough, cover and bake for another 30 minutes.
5. Add Barbecue Sauce and Finish Baking
Once tender, remove the foil and coat the ribs generously with barbecue sauce. Return them to the oven uncovered and bake for another 20-30 minutes. Flip the ribs halfway through and brush with more sauce to build a sticky, caramelized glaze.
6. Broil for a Perfect Finish
For that irresistible crispy edge, switch your oven to broil. Place the ribs about 6 inches from the heat source and broil for 3-5 minutes, watching closely to avoid burning. This step crisps the fat and caramelizes the sauce for that classic BBQ finish.
7. Rest and Serve
Remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping every bite moist and flavorful. Serve with your favorite sides like coleslaw, roasted veggies, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Oven-Baked Country Style Ribs
– Don’t skip the foil cover: It traps steam and keeps the ribs moist during the long cooking process.
– Use a dry rub: A good seasoning blend adds layers of flavor beyond just salt and pepper.
– Be patient: Low and slow is key for tender ribs.
– Broil at the end: This step adds texture and caramelization that makes the ribs irresistible.
– Double the recipe: These ribs make excellent leftovers and reheat beautifully.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
– Garlic and lemon: Spread minced garlic on the ribs and top with lemon slices before baking for a fresh twist.
– Spicy rub: Mix smoked paprika, cayenne, and black pepper for a smoky, spicy flavor.
– Sweet and tangy: Use a barbecue sauce with brown sugar or honey to add sweetness.
– Herbs: Add thyme or rosemary to the rub for an herby note.
Country style ribs cooked in the oven are a simple, delicious way to enjoy a hearty pork dish with minimal fuss. With a little seasoning, low and slow baking, and a final broil, you’ll have tender, flavorful ribs that rival any BBQ joint.
Enjoy your cooking adventure!