These oven-baked BBQ boneless country style pork ribs are finger-licking good! They’re tender, juicy, and drenched in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce that will make everyone smile.
I love that these ribs can be made right in my oven, no grill needed! Just pop them in, and you can kick back while they cook. Perfect for a cozy night in! 🍖💖
Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Country Style Pork Ribs: These are great because they are tender and cook down nicely. If you can’t find them, try using boneless pork shoulder or even chicken thighs as a leaner option.
BBQ Sauce: You can use your favorite store-bought sauce, but I love making homemade BBQ sauce when I have time. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using a sugar-free BBQ sauce or a tangy vinegar-based sauce.
Brown Sugar: This adds a nice caramel flavor. If you’re looking for substitutes, you can use coconut sugar or even honey, just adjust the quantity slightly since honey is sweeter.
Spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Smoked Paprika, Black Pepper, Salt, Cayenne): Use fresh garlic and onions if you prefer, or experiment with other spices like chili powder for a different taste. Fresh herbs can also add a nice touch!
Olive Oil: Good for rubbing on the meat, but you can swap it with other oils like canola or avocado oil, especially if you want something with a higher smoke point.
How Do I Ensure My Ribs Are Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking ribs requires attention to detail, especially in the seasoning and cooking process. For tender ribs, slow cooking is key. The low temperature helps break down the meat’s connective tissue, making it tender.
- Start by patting the ribs dry; this helps the oil and spices stick better.
- Don’t skimp on rubbing the spice mixture into the meat. It enhances the flavor throughout.
- Bake covered with foil initially to lock in moisture. Consider the baking time; the longer, the better, as long as it doesn’t dry out.
- For the final crisp on the BBQ sauce, increase the oven temperature. This step caramelizes the sauce, giving it a tasty finish.
Oven Baked BBQ Boneless Country Style Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds boneless country style pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Spice Rub:
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
For the BBQ Sauce:
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice, homemade or store-bought)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, and then you’ll bake the ribs for a total of about 2 hours and 20 minutes. Just a little patience is needed, and you’ll have tender, delicious ribs ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help your ribs become tender and juicy as they bake.
2. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a large bowl, mix together the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you want an extra kick. This mix will add great flavor to your ribs!
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Take your boneless pork ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the rub stick better. Then, rub the ribs all over with olive oil to keep them moist and flavorful.
4. Season the Ribs:
Now, coat the ribs evenly with your prepared spice mixture. Be sure to press the rub into the meat so the flavors really soak in!
5. Arrange for Baking:
Place the seasoned ribs in a baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with foil to make cleanup easier. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, which will help keep the moisture in during baking.
6. Bake the Ribs:
Put the covered ribs in your preheated oven and bake for 2 to 2.5 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when they are fork-tender and the meat easily pulls apart.
7. Add the BBQ Sauce:
Once the ribs are tender, remove them from the oven and increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C). Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce on the ribs, making sure to cover them well.
8. Finish Baking:
Return the ribs to the oven without the cover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes. This will caramelize the BBQ sauce and give it that delicious sticky glaze.
9. Let Them Rest and Serve:
When done, take the ribs out of the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This will help the juices redistribute. Slice them up, serve hot, and feel free to add extra BBQ sauce on the side!
Enjoy your delicious oven-baked BBQ boneless country style pork ribs!
Can I Use Bone-In Ribs Instead of Boneless?
Yes, you can use bone-in ribs, but keep in mind that they may require a bit longer cooking time—about 2.5 to 3 hours. Adjust the baking time as needed until the meat is tender and pulls away from the bone easily.
What If I Don’t Have BBQ Sauce on Hand?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade BBQ sauce with ingredients like ketchup, vinegar, honey or brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices. Mix equal parts ketchup and vinegar, add a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar, and season it to taste. This can work in a pinch!
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through, or microwave them in short bursts with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
Can I Cook These Ribs on a Grill Instead?
Absolutely! Pre-cook the ribs in the oven as directed, then finish them on the grill over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, basting with BBQ sauce until caramelized and slightly charred. This will give you that smoky flavor perfect for grilled ribs!
