These country-style pork ribs are super tender and fall apart with just a little nudge. Baked in the oven, they soak up all the tasty flavors from the spices and sauce.
Honestly, who doesn’t love a meal that requires minimal effort but tastes like a million bucks? I just pop them in the oven and relax while they cook. Easy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Country-Style Pork Ribs: These ribs are meaty and flavorful. If you can’t find them, you can substitute with pork shoulder or baby back ribs. Just adjust cooking time as needed.
Olive Oil: This adds moisture and helps the spices stick. If you’re looking for a different flavor, avocado oil or melted butter can be great swaps.
Brown Sugar: This gives a nice sweetness. If you’re aiming for no added sugar, you can try coconut sugar or simply skip it for a less sweet version.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite brand or homemade. For a healthier option, look for a sauce with less sugar or make your own with ketchup, vinegar, and spices.
How Do You Ensure Ribs are Tender and Fall Apart?
Getting your ribs to fall apart is all about low and slow cooking. Here’s how:
- Start by preheating your oven properly to 300°F (150°C). Low heat helps break down the collagen in the meat.
- Cover the ribs tightly with aluminum foil. This traps steam, keeping the meat moist throughout cooking.
- Cook for 3 to 3.5 hours. Check if they’re tender by gently pulling them with a fork. If they don’t give, cook a little longer.
- Broil at 425°F (220°C) uncovered at the end to get that sticky, caramelized glaze on the barbecue sauce.
Letting the ribs rest before serving is also key. It allows the juices to redistribute, making every bite delicious!
Fall Apart Oven Baked Country Style Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a bit of heat)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite kind)
- 1/2 cup apple cider or apple juice
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes of prep time and 3 to 3.5 hours of cooking time. It’s low and slow, but the result is tender, flavorful ribs that will fall right off the bone!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help the ribs cook slowly and become tender.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and brown sugar. This blend will give your ribs a delicious flavor!
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels to help the spices stick. Then, rub olive oil all over the ribs to add moisture and flavor.
4. Season the Ribs:
Next, sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the ribs. Use your hands to massage it into the meat for better flavor.
5. Arrange the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs in a large baking dish or roasting pan. Pour the apple cider and Worcestershire sauce around the ribs, being careful not to wash off the spice rub.
6. Cover and Bake:
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap all the juicy goodness. Bake in the preheated oven for about 3 to 3.5 hours. You want the ribs to be very tender and easily pull apart with a fork.
7. Add Barbecue Sauce:
Once the ribs are tender, carefully remove the foil. Brush your favorite barbecue sauce generously over the ribs to add that delicious glaze.
8. Caramelize the Sauce:
Turn up the oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will caramelize the barbecue sauce a bit, giving it a nice sticky finish!
9. Rest Before Serving:
Let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to settle, making every bite juicy and tender.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your fall-apart ribs with extra barbecue sauce on the side if desired. Enjoy your delicious, tender country-style pork ribs!
FAQ for Fall Apart Oven Baked Country Style Pork Ribs
Can I Substitute the Apple Cider?
Absolutely! If you don’t have apple cider or apple juice on hand, you can use chicken broth or even a splash of vinegar mixed with water. This will maintain moisture and add a bit of acidity.
What if I Want to Add More Spice?
If you prefer spicier ribs, feel free to increase the amount of chili powder in the spice mix or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use a spicy barbecue sauce to kick up the heat!
Can I Cook These Ribs on the Grill Instead?
Yes, you can grill the ribs! After following the same seasoning and preparation steps, grill them over indirect heat at around 300°F. Cover and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, basting with barbecue sauce for the last 15 minutes to caramelize.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave, making sure to cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
