Oh boy, do I have a treat for you today! I can already hear the sizzle of those ribs in the oven, and I can’t wait for you to experience the heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen while they bake. This recipe for Baked Country Style Ribs is one of my absolute favorites. It’s the kind of dish that invokes cozy family dinners and summer barbecues, even when it’s freezing outside!
I first tried this recipe during a chilly winter gathering at my friend’s house. The tender, juicy ribs paired with homemade cornbread were unforgettable! Since then, I’ve made it countless times, tweaking and perfecting the flavors to the point where it’s now a staple in my house. Can we just take a moment to appreciate how versatile ribs are? They’re perfect for gatherings, special occasions, or just a cozy night in.
So, let’s roll up those sleeves and gather the ingredients needed for these succulent Baked Country Style Ribs!
What’s in Baked Country Style Ribs?
Country Style Pork Ribs: Ah, the star of the show! These ribs are meaty, packed with flavor, and perfect for slow-cooking methods like baking. They’re easy to find at most grocery stores, and I love that they don’t have a bone, making them super tender.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle of olive oil helps the dry rub stick to the ribs while adding a touch of richness. Extra virgin is my go-to for quality and taste.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These seasoning staples bring much-needed depth to our flavor profile. I love how they contribute to that hearty essence of ribs without overpowering them.
Smoked Paprika: This is my secret weapon! It adds a delightful smokiness to the dish, giving those ribs a taste that feels like you’ve been grilling them outdoors all day.
Paprika (optional): Just a hint of this will enhance the color and flavor. I like to use it for depth, but if you’re out, no worries!
Salt & Black Pepper: These are your basic seasoning heroes. They highlight all the other flavors in the dish.
Brown Sugar: A dash of sweetness balances the spicy and savory components, creating a wonderful glaze on the ribs.
Cayenne Pepper (optional): If you like a bit of heat, feel free to add this! It’s a great way to cater to different palates.
Onions: The sliced onions add moisture and a nice sweetness while the ribs bake.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite brand or make your own! The sauce is crucial for that sticky, finger-licking finish.
Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of rosemary or parsley makes for a beautiful garnish and adds a touch of freshness.
Is Baked Country Style Ribs Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health. Just because we’re indulging in these succulent ribs doesn’t mean we can’t think about our nutrition, right?
Pork Ribs: They’re a great source of protein and can also give you essential vitamins like B12 and zinc. Just watch your portion sizes due to their fat content, especially if you’re monitoring your intake.
Olive Oil: This healthy fat is packed with antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation. Plus, it’s a heart-healthy choice compared to other types of oils.
Spices: The garlic, onion, and paprika not only boost flavor but also offer health benefits like immune support and digestive aid.
So yes, while these ribs are a hearty treat, they can fit into a balanced diet, especially when paired with fiber-rich sides like coleslaw or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients
– 2-3 pounds country style pork ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 cup onion, sliced
– 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your choice)
– Fresh herbs (such as rosemary or parsley) for garnish
*(This recipe serves about 4-6 people, depending on how hungry everyone is!)*
How to Make Baked Country Style Ribs?
1. Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). It’s time to get that warmth going!
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, paprika, salt, black pepper, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper (if using). Hello, dry rub!
3. Pat the country style ribs dry with paper towels. They’re going to need that olive oil to stick. Rub the olive oil all over those ribs, then sprinkle the dry rub mixture on both sides. Don’t be shy; get in there!
4. Place the ribs in a baking dish or a large roasting pan. Scatter the sliced onions over the top of the ribs like little sleepy clouds.
5. Coat the ribs with your barbecue sauce, making sure they’re well-covered. This step is crucial for that sticky gooey goodness!
6. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep the moisture in while baking. Pop it in the preheated oven and roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are tender and pull apart easily.
7. Remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (200°C). Bake for an additional 15-20 minutes. This is where magic happens! We want to caramelize that sauce and create a lovely crust.
8. When ready, carefully remove the ribs from the oven and allow them to rest for about 10 minutes. This step is key for juiciness.
9. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving. And voilà! Your delicious baked country style ribs are ready to be devoured!
Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Plate!
Now that you’ve got your ribs ready, what to serve with them? Typically, I’ll whip up my famous coleslaw, which adds a nice crunch and freshness, or bake some cornbread for that sweet flavor contrast. A side of roasted vegetables is also a great way to round out this meal with some greens. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
I can’t tell you enough how much I love this recipe. I promise you that these Baked Country Style Ribs will become a favorite at your table, just as they have at mine. Give them a try, and I’d love to hear all about your experience! Whether it’s a family gathering or just a rustic dinner for one, I can’t wait for you to enjoy every juicy bite! Happy cooking!
