Easy Oven-Baked Pork Ribs Recipe

Pork ribs have been a favorite for meat lovers all around the world. Tender, juicy, and flavorful, they belong to the list of comfort food that is perfect for any occasion. Though you might think that preparing pork ribs at home is a daunting task, the truth is that it is relatively simple.

If you have an oven at home and a pack of pork ribs lying in your fridge, all you need is a few simple ingredients and an hour or two to make the most delicious pork ribs you have ever tasted. In this article, we will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to make pork ribs in the oven that will be a hit at your next dinner party or family get-together.

Preparing the Pork Ribs

Choose the right cut of pork ribs

The first step in making pork ribs in the oven is to choose the right cut of pork. You can opt for baby back ribs or spare ribs. Baby back ribs are tender and cook quickly, while spare ribs are meatier and typically take longer to cook. Choose ribs that have a good amount of meat on them and are not too fatty.

Clean the pork ribs

Before cooking, clean the pork ribs thoroughly with water. Remove any debris or excess fat from the ribs. Pat them dry with paper towels.

Seasoning the pork ribs

Seasoning is an essential part of making pork ribs in the oven. You can choose to marinate the ribs with your favorite seasoning mix or rub. A simple seasoning blend with a mix of garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper works well.

Let the pork ribs marinate

Once you have seasoned the pork ribs, place them in a dish and cover them with cling wrap. Let them marinate for at least one hour or refrigerate them overnight for best results.

Cooking the Pork Ribs

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature allows for slow cooking of pork ribs, resulting in juicy and tender meat.

Prepare the baking dish

While the oven is heating up, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with cooking oil to prevent the meat from sticking. Place the pork ribs in the baking dish with the meaty side facing up.

Cover the pork ribs with foil

After placing the ribs in the baking dish, cover them with foil. This will help to lock in the moisture and flavors, making the meat tender.

Cook the pork ribs in the oven

Place the baking dish in the oven and cook the pork ribs for approximately 2-2.5 hours, depending on the thickness of the ribs. As the pork cooks, turn the ribs every 30 minutes to ensure even cooking and browning.

Baste the ribs

After the first hour of cooking, baste the ribs with your favorite sauce or marinade. Basting ensures that the meat stays moist and adds flavor to the dish.

Foiling and resting the ribs

After cooking for the recommended time, take out the baking dish and uncover the pork ribs. Brush them with additional sauce or marinade, and then place them back in the oven, uncovered, at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes to let them get a nice, crispy finish. Let the pork ribs rest for five minutes before serving.

Serving the pork ribs

Serve the pork ribs hot with your favorite sides, such as baked potatoes, coleslaw, or corn on the cob. You can also enjoy them with a cold beer or sweet iced tea.

Conclusion

In conclusion, making pork ribs in the oven can seem daunting at first, but with the right tips and technique, it can be a delicious and easy meal to prepare. From choosing the right cut of pork ribs to seasoning and slow cooking, these steps will help you make tender, juicy, and flavorful pork ribs every time. So, fire up your oven and start making amazing pork ribs for your next family dinner or get-together!

10 Tips for Perfectly Tender and Juicy Pork Ribs in the Oven

Looking to get that perfect fall-off-the-bone pork rib without having to man a grill or smoker? Here are our top 10 tips for getting that perfect result straight from your oven:

1. Dry Rub the Ribs

Before you cook your ribs, it’s essential to give them a dry rub. This step helps to season the ribs while also forming a crust that seals in moisture as they cook in the oven. Use a blend of your favorite herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile. For a classic BBQ flavor, mix together paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.

2. Marinate the Ribs Overnight

If you have the time, marinate the ribs overnight to infuse them with even more flavor. Combine your favorite herbs, spices, and liquids in a ziplock bag or airtight container and place the ribs inside. Let them sit for at least 8 hours, or overnight, in the fridge.

3. Use Aluminum Foil or a Drip Pan

While you want to keep your ribs moist, you don’t want them sitting in a puddle of their own juices. Use aluminum foil or a drip pan to catch any fat or moisture that might come off the ribs as they cook.

4. Cook Low and Slow

Low and slow is the key to perfectly cooked pork ribs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C) and bake your ribs for 2-3 hours or until they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). This slow cooking method will help break down connective tissues and result in tender, juicy meat.

5. Add a Liquid for Extra Moisture

To add extra moisture, you may want to consider adding a liquid to your cooking method. Whether it’s apple juice, beer, or broth, this step will help keep your ribs moist and tender.

6. Baste the Ribs with Sauce

During the last 30 minutes of cooking, brush your ribs with a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce for that classic flavor. Be sure to keep an eye on them during this step and avoid burning the sauce to ensure maximum flavor.

7. Rest the Ribs Before Slicing

Once you pull your ribs out of the oven, let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. This step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat and results in a more flavorful, tender rib.

8. Slice against the Grain

When it’s time to slice your ribs, make sure to slice against the grain. This step ensures that the meat will be more tender and easier to chew.

9. Store Leftovers Properly

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. You can reheat them in the oven or on the grill for a quick and easy meal.

10. Experiment with Different Flavors

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors. Try using different rubs, marinades, and sauces to find your perfect combo. You might even consider adding a finishing touch of honey, brown sugar, or chili flakes for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Cooking Pork Ribs in the Oven

If you want to make the best pork ribs in your oven, there are some key tips to keep in mind. Let’s take a closer look at five useful tips for cooking pork ribs in the oven.

1. Choose the Right Ribs

The first step in making delicious, succulent pork ribs is choosing the right type of ribs. Baby back ribs are a popular choice for oven cooking, but you can also use spare or St. Louis-style ribs. To get the best flavor and texture, look for ribs with plenty of meat and good marbling. You can also try to find ribs that are hormone and antibiotic-free.

2. Preparing the Ribs

Once you have your ribs, you need to prepare them for cooking. Start by removing the membrane from the bone side of the ribs, as this can prevent the seasoning from penetrating the meat. Rub your ribs with a spice blend of your choice and let them sit in the fridge for a few hours or even overnight. This step will allow the flavors to meld and permeate the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender rib.

3. Choosing the Right Cooking Method

When it comes to cooking pork ribs in the oven, there are a few different methods to choose from. You can wrap your ribs in foil and bake them slowly for a few hours, or you can cook them uncovered at a higher temperature for less time. Both methods can produce delicious results, but you may find that you prefer one over the other. If you opt for the slow-cooking method, make sure to add liquid to the foil wrap to help keep the ribs moist.

4. Checking for Doneness

It’s essential to check your ribs with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach the appropriate temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safety. However, if you want your ribs to be more tender, you may need to cook them at a lower temperature for a longer time. The meat should pull away from the bone and be very tender but not falling off the bone.

5. Resting and Serving Your Ribs

After your ribs are done cooking, it’s important to allow them to rest for a few minutes. This step will help the juices redistribute and will prevent them from drying out. Once your ribs have rested, it’s time to serve them up. You can enjoy them as is, or you can brush on your favorite barbecue sauce for a sweet and tangy finish. Just be sure to have plenty of napkins on hand!

In summary, making pork ribs in the oven is an excellent way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without having to fire up the grill. By choosing the right ribs, preparing them properly, selecting the right cooking method, checking for doneness, and allowing them to rest, you can create the perfect rack of ribs every time. Give it a try, and we’re sure your taste buds will thank you.

Enjoy Your Delicious Pork Ribs!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully prepared a mouth-watering dish that your friends and family will love. By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious and tender pork ribs in the comfort of your own home. We hope you enjoyed this article and found it helpful. Don’t forget to visit us again for more easy and tasty recipes. Thanks for reading and happy cooking!