These Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs are juicy and packed with flavor! With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a tasty meal straight from your backyard.
Grilling these ribs is a breeze, and honestly, the messier they are, the more fun you have eating them! I love serving them with a crunchy coleslaw on the side for that perfect summer vibe.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Country Style Pork Ribs: These ribs are meaty and perfect for grilling! If you can’t find them, you can use spare ribs or baby back ribs, but cooking times may vary since these cuts are different in thickness.
Barbecue Sauce: Use your favorite barbecue sauce for that added flavor! If you’re looking for a healthier option, try a sugar-free version or make your own with tomato sauce, vinegar, and spices.
Olive Oil: I love olive oil for its flavor and health benefits. However, you can substitute it with canola oil or any neutral oil you prefer.
Spices: The mix of spices is what gives these ribs their amazing flavor! If you want a twist, substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika for less smokiness, or try adding a teaspoon of cumin for a unique taste.
How Can I Get Juicy Ribs Without Overcooking Them?
The key to juicy ribs lies in indirect grilling. This method cooks the meat slowly and evenly, making it tender without drying it out. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your grill; having it at a steady medium heat is crucial. Too hot, and you risk burning the outside.
- Place the ribs away from the direct flame. This allows for gentle cooking while avoiding the possibility of charred outer layers.
- Keep the lid closed. This keeps the heat in and helps cook the ribs evenly.
Remember to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Once it reaches 145°F, your ribs are cooked perfectly. Patience is key—let them rest for a few minutes before serving for the best results!
Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds country style pork ribs
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for a bit of heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 45 to 60 minutes of grilling time. Total time is around 1 hour or a little more, depending on how long you like to grill your ribs for extra tenderness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium heat, aiming for around 350°F to 375°F. This is important for cooking the ribs evenly without burning them.
2. Prepare the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if you want to add a little heat). This spice mix will give the ribs great flavor!
3. Coat the Ribs:
Take the pork ribs and rub them all over with olive oil. Then, sprinkle the spice mixture on the ribs, making sure to coat them evenly. This will help the flavors stick and create a delicious crust.
4. Grill the Ribs:
Place the seasoned ribs on the grill, cooking them over indirect heat. This means positioning them away from the flames. Cook for about 45 to 60 minutes, turning them occasionally to ensure they cook evenly. You want them to be tender and have an internal temperature of about 145°F.
5. Add the BBQ Sauce:
In the final 10 to 15 minutes of grilling, brush the ribs generously with your favorite barbecue sauce. Move them over to direct heat during this time to help caramelize the sauce, turning them carefully to avoid burning.
6. Rest the Ribs:
Once they’re beautifully caramelized and cooked, remove the ribs from the grill. Let them rest for about 5 minutes; this gives the juices time to redistribute and makes for a more tender rib!
7. Serve:
Finally, serve the ribs hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side. They go wonderfully with coleslaw or your favorite grilled veggies!
Enjoy your juicy, smoky, and flavorful Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Country Style Ribs
Can I Use a Different Type of Ribs?
Absolutely! While country style ribs are great for grilling, you can also use spare ribs or baby back ribs. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Spare ribs may take a bit longer, while baby back ribs might cook faster.
What Should I Do If My Ribs Are Sticking to the Grill?
If the ribs are sticking, make sure your grill grates are well-oiled before placing the ribs on them. You can brush the grates with oil using a paper towel and tongs. Also, ensure that the grill is preheated properly—this helps create a nice sear that releases the meat more easily.
Can I Make These Ribs in the Oven Instead of on the Grill?
Yes! You can bake the ribs in the oven at 300°F for about 2 to 2.5 hours, wrapped in aluminum foil for tenderness. Then, finish them off under the broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the barbecue sauce if desired.
How Do I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, adding extra barbecue sauce if you like.
