If you’ve ever struggled with dry pork, chewy ribs, or recipes that promise “fall-apart tender” results but never deliver—this is the recipe that changes everything. Oven Roasted Country Style Pork Ribs are one of the most forgiving, flavorful, and budget-friendly pork cuts you can cook, and when roasted low and slow in the oven, they transform into unbelievably tender, juicy perfection.

This foolproof method is designed for home cooks of all skill levels. No smoker. No grill. No fancy equipment. Just a baking dish, a simple seasoning blend, and the patience to let the oven work its magic. The result? Pork ribs that are deeply seasoned, caramelized on the outside, and moist on the inside—every single time.

Country style ribs are actually cut from the pork shoulder, not the rib cage, which means they contain more marbling and connective tissue. That extra fat is exactly what makes them perfect for slow roasting. When cooked properly, the meat becomes rich, succulent, and practically melts under your fork.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or feeding a crowd on a budget, this recipe delivers consistent, crave-worthy results without stress.

What Are Country Style Pork Ribs?

Despite the name, country style pork ribs are not true ribs. They are thick strips of pork shoulder (sometimes bone-in, sometimes boneless) that resemble ribs in shape but cook more like a roast. This cut is incredibly flavorful and affordable, making it popular for oven roasting, braising, and slow cooking.

Because they come from the shoulder, country style ribs benefit from longer cooking times at lower temperatures. This allows the collagen to break down, creating tender, juicy meat instead of dryness.

Why This Oven Method Works

Many recipes fail because they cook pork too hot and too fast. This method uses two stages:

Low and slow roasting, covered tightly, to tenderize the meat.
High-heat finishing, uncovered, to develop a flavorful crust.

This combination guarantees juicy interiors and beautifully caramelized exteriors—no grill required.

Ingredients

Country style pork ribs (bone-in or boneless)
Olive oil
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Smoked paprika
Brown sugar
Salt
Black pepper
Chili powder (optional)
Barbecue sauce (optional, for glazing)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Rub the ribs lightly with olive oil on all sides.
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, pepper, and chili powder.
Generously coat the ribs with the seasoning mixture, pressing it into the meat.
Arrange ribs in a single layer in a baking dish or roasting pan.
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
Roast in the oven for 2½ hours, until the meat is very tender.
Remove foil and increase oven temperature to 425°F (220°C).
Brush ribs with barbecue sauce if using.
Return to oven uncovered and roast for 15–20 minutes until caramelized.
Remove from oven and rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfectly Tender Ribs

Always cook covered first to trap moisture.
Let the ribs rest before serving so juices redistribute.
Don’t rush the low-temperature stage—it’s essential.
Use a meat thermometer if unsure; 195–203°F is ideal.

Flavor Variations

Sweet & Smoky: Add honey and extra smoked paprika.
Garlic Herb: Swap barbecue sauce for butter, garlic, and rosemary.
Spicy: Add cayenne and chipotle powder.
Asian-Inspired: Glaze with hoisin and soy sauce.

What to Serve With Country Style Pork Ribs

Mashed potatoes
Roasted vegetables
Coleslaw
Cornbread
Mac and cheese
Steamed green beans

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat covered in a 300°F oven or gently in a skillet with a splash of broth.

Fun Food Fact

Country style ribs became popular in the U.S. as a cost-effective alternative to traditional ribs—offering more meat and richer flavor at a lower price.

Final Thoughts

These Oven Roasted Country Style Pork Ribs prove that you don’t need fancy tools to cook incredible food. With simple ingredients and a reliable technique, you get juicy, tender pork that tastes like it took all day—and impresses every time.