These Easy Oven BBQ Boneless Pork Ribs are super tender and packed with flavor! You just slather them in your favorite barbecue sauce and pop them in the oven for a hassle-free meal.
I love how easy they are to make—no grill necessary! Just bake, munch, and enjoy. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without all the fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Boneless Pork Ribs: These are juicy and require minimal cooking. If you can’t find them, you can use bone-in ribs, just adjust the cooking time as they might take longer.
Barbecue Sauce: Choose your favorite sauce for the best flavor. I like a tangy apple cider vinegar-based sauce for a nice balance. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can also make your own or use a sugar-free version.
Smoked Paprika: This spice adds a hint of smokiness. If you don’t have it, feel free to leave it out; your ribs will still taste great! Alternatively, liquid smoke could work too, but use it sparingly.
Olive or Vegetable Oil: Use any cooking oil you have on hand. Canola oil or avocado oil are good substitutes. They both effectively help in searing the meat.
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Tender Ribs?
To get those mouthwatering, tender ribs, the key is low and slow cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by preheating the oven to 300°F (150°C) for that gentle cooking process.
- The searing step is essential; it locks in flavors and creates a delicious crust.
- Baking covered with foil traps moisture, keeping the ribs juicy. Don’t skip this step!
- Finally, broiling at the end caramelizes the sauce, giving it that sweet and sticky finish.
Letting the ribs rest before serving allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite even more flavorful!
Easy Oven BBQ Boneless Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 pounds boneless pork ribs (also called country-style ribs)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Seasoning:
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 2 to 2.5 hours of baking in the oven. Total time is around 2 hours and 15 minutes to 2 hours and 45 minutes, including resting. It’s a slow-cooked dish, but the hands-on time is very minimal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature will help make the pork ribs super tender.
2. Season the Ribs:
In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork ribs so they are evenly coated.
3. Sear the Ribs:
In an oven-safe skillet or roasting pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork ribs and sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are lightly browned. This step helps seal in flavor!
4. Add the Barbecue Sauce:
Remove the pan from the heat. Generously brush both sides of the ribs with your barbecue sauce. Make sure to get a good coat on them—it’s where all that delicious flavor comes from!
5. Bake the Ribs:
Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil. This helps keep the moisture in while the ribs cook. Place it in the preheated oven and let them bake for 2 to 2.5 hours until they are nice and tender.
6. Broil for Extra Flavor:
After baking, carefully remove the foil. Brush a bit more barbecue sauce on top of the ribs for a sticky, delicious glaze. Switch your oven setting to broil and put the ribs back in for 3-5 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning, as you want that sauce to be caramelized and bubbly!
7. Rest and Serve:
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to settle, making the meat even more flavorful and juicy. Enjoy your tender, flavorful oven-baked BBQ boneless pork ribs!
FAQ for Easy Oven BBQ Boneless Pork Ribs
Can I Use Different Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes! While boneless pork ribs (country-style ribs) work best for this recipe, you can substitute with bone-in ribs or pork shoulder. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in cuts may take longer to become tender.
What Type of Barbecue Sauce Should I Use?
Feel free to use your favorite barbecue sauce—whether sweet, tangy, or spicy. You can also make your own if you prefer. A thicker sauce generally works best for this recipe, as it caramelizes nicely during broiling.
How Can I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave them if you’re in a hurry. Just add a splash of water to keep them moist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and season the ribs a day in advance. Just keep them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Bake them as directed, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
