How Long to Cook Pork Ribs in the Oven at 275 Degrees

Cooking pork ribs in the oven can result in tasty fall-off-the-bone deliciousness when done right. But knowing how long to cook them for optimal tenderness without drying them out can be tricky. This article will provide tips on selecting ribs oven temperature, cook times, and techniques to achieve mouthwatering oven-baked pork ribs every time.

Selecting the Right Pork Ribs

There are a few different cuts of pork ribs to choose from

• Baby back ribs – These ribs are from the top of the rib cage near the spine. They have a good meat to bone ratio and are more tender and leaner than other rib cuts. Baby backs are shorter and curved compared to spare ribs.

• Spare ribs – Spare ribs come from lower down on the rib cage and contain more fat and connective tissue. This makes them tougher but more flavorful. They take longer to cook than baby back ribs to become tender.

• Country-style ribs – These ribs are cut from the upper side of the rib cage. They contain both loin meat and rib meat. Country-style ribs are meatier than other rib cuts.

• St. Louis-style ribs – St. Louis ribs are a trimmed version of spare ribs. The rib tips are removed for a rectangular appearance. St. Louis ribs cook faster than untrimmed spare ribs.

For oven roasting, baby back ribs or St. Louis ribs are good choices since they remain moist and tender. Spare ribs can also work well when cooked low and slow. Choose ribs that are meaty but have some fat marbling for flavor. Avoid ribs that appear overly fatty or dry.

Low and Slow Oven Temperature

The ideal oven temperature for baking pork ribs is between 250°F and 300°F. This slower cooking allows the fat and collagen to break down over time, resulting in tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.

275°F is right in the sweet spot, being not too high or low. At this temperature, the ribs will cook steadily without over browning or drying out.

If cooking at a lower temp such as 250°F, extend the cook time. For a higher 300°F temp, reduce the time slightly. But 275°F gives the best balance of gentle, even cooking.

How Long to Cook Pork Ribs at 275°F

Cooking times can vary based on the size and cut of ribs. Follow these general guidelines when baking pork ribs at 275°F:

• Baby back ribs – Cook for 2-3 hours
• Spare ribs – Cook for 3-4 hours
• St. Louis ribs – Cook for 2 1⁄2 – 3 1⁄2 hours
• Country-style ribs – Cook for 2 1⁄2 – 3 hours

Check the ribs periodically by poking them with a fork. When done, the meat should be very tender and pulling away from the bones. If still tough, cover and continue cooking until tender, checking every 30 minutes.

For the most foolproof doneness test, use an instant-read thermometer. Pork ribs are perfect at an internal temp of 190°-195°F. If under, bake longer until reaching this ideal temp.

Preparing and Cooking Techniques

Follow these steps for oven-baked ribs with incredible texture and flavor:

1. Remove Membrane

On the back of the ribs is a papery membrane covering the bones. For tender ribs, it’s best to remove this membrane before cooking. Slide a spoon or butter knife under it to loosen, grab a corner, and peel it off.

2. Season the Ribs

Generously rub seasoning over both sides of the racks. Use salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, brown sugar, chili powder, or BBQ seasoning rubs. Let the seasoned ribs sit for 15-30 minutes before cooking.

3. Arrange Ribs on Racks

Place the ribs on a baking sheet bone-side down. For easy cleanup, line pans with foil. If ribs overlap, stagger them so air circulates around each rack.

4. Cover with Foil

Wrap the ribs completely in aluminum foil to seal in moisture. Leave some room around each rack if stacked.

5. Bake at 275°F

Place foil-wrapped ribs in the oven and bake for estimated time based on cut of ribs. Check tenderness and temp periodically.

6. Uncover and Apply BBQ Sauce

During the last 15-30 minutes, remove the foil and brush ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce. Return to oven to caramelize the sauce.

7. Let Rest before Serving

Once done, remove ribs from the oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before cutting individual ribs. This allows juices to absorb back into the meat.

Tips for Perfect Oven Ribs

• Choose meaty, evenly sized racks for even cooking.

• Remove the membrane for increased tenderness.

• Cook low and slow, with steam from foil packet.

• Use an instant-read thermometer to check doneness.

• Let ribs rest before cutting for juicy ribs.

• If reheating leftovers, add moisture with sauce, broth or apple juice.

With minimal prep and hands-off oven time, you can have incredible pork ribs any night of the week. Follow these guidelines on cook times, temp, and techniques for mouthwatering oven-baked ribs every time.