These easy grilled country style ribs are packed with flavor and super juicy! They’re perfect for weekend barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner.
Grilling these ribs is a breeze—just season them and let the grill do all the magic. They always turn out tender and delicious, and my family can’t get enough of them!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Country Style Pork Ribs: These ribs are ideal for grilling as they have a good amount of meat and some fat for flavor. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you could use boneless pork chops, though they might need different cooking times to remain juicy.
Olive Oil: This oil helps the seasoning stick to the meat and promotes nice browning. You can swap it for avocado oil or vegetable oil if you prefer. Both have high smoke points, making them perfect for grilling.
Spices: Garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika are my favorites for flavor. If you have fresh garlic and onions, feel free to use them. Also, a regular paprika can be used if smoked isn’t available; just note it won’t have that smoky flavor!
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a kick, but feel free to leave it out if you prefer milder flavors. You can also substitute it with black pepper if you want some warmth without too much heat.
Barbecue Sauce: While it’s optional, I love adding it for a tangy glaze. You can use store-bought or homemade, or even try a spicy mustard if you want to change things up!
How Do You Grill Ribs to Perfection?
Grilling ribs can be tricky, but with a little attention, you’ll have perfect results! The key is to cook them slowly and avoid high heat that can char the outside before the inside is done.
- Start grilling at medium-high heat but be ready to turn down if needed. If you see flare-ups, move the ribs to a cooler part of the grill.
- Cook them for about 15 minutes per side. This slow cooking helps break down the soft tissues for tenderness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The safe internal temperature is 145°F, but for juicier ribs, aim closer to 190°F where the fat breaks down beautifully.
- Let them rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps retain the juices!
These tips will help you grill up delicious country style ribs every time. Happy grilling!
Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds country style pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce (optional, for glazing)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 30-35 minutes for grilling. Allow a few extra minutes for resting after you grill them. In total, you’ll have those tasty ribs ready to enjoy in about an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, which is about 375°F to 400°F. This is the perfect temperature for cooking the ribs evenly without burning them.
2. Prepare the Spice Mix:
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper if you like a little heat. This mix will give your ribs a great flavor!
3. Season the Ribs:
Take the country style ribs and pat them dry with paper towels. Drizzle olive oil over the ribs and rub it in, ensuring they are well coated. Next, generously sprinkle the spice mix on all sides of the ribs so that they are flavorful from every angle.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs on the grill and cook them for about 15 minutes per side. Make sure to turn them occasionally to avoid any burning. Keep an eye out for flare-ups and adjust the heat if needed!
5. Apply Barbecue Sauce:
If you’re using barbecue sauce, brush it onto the ribs during the last 5 minutes of grilling. Flip the ribs once more so both sides get that delicious glaze.
6. Check for Doneness:
Use a meat thermometer to check the ribs’ internal temperature. They should reach at least 145°F and be tender with a nice char. If you want them super tender, aim for about 190°F.
7. Let Them Rest:
Once cooked, remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for at least 5 minutes. This helps keep them juicy!
8. Serve:
Slice between the ribs and serve them hot with your favorite sides, like coleslaw, baked beans, or corn on the cob. Enjoy every bite!
This recipe yields juicy, flavorful country style ribs with a wonderful grilled crust and a tender interior. Enjoy your delicious meal!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs
Can I Use Other Cuts of Pork for This Recipe?
Yes! While country style pork ribs are ideal for grilling, you can use other cuts like baby back ribs or spare ribs. Just adjust the cooking time, as these may take longer to cook through. Always check the internal temperature for doneness!
What Should I Do If My Ribs Start to Burn on the Grill?
If your ribs are charring too quickly, move them to a cooler part of the grill. You can also turn down the heat slightly. Keeping a close eye and turning frequently will help prevent burning while still achieving that delicious char.
Can I Make These Ribs in the Oven Instead?
Absolutely! If grilling isn’t an option, you can bake them at 300°F for about 2-2.5 hours until they’re tender. Cover them with foil for the first hour to retain moisture, then remove it to let them brown before serving!
How Can I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through, or on the grill for extra flavor!
