These Easy Oven Baked Mustard Pork Ribs are finger-licking good! With a tangy mustard glaze, they’re juicy, tender, and full of flavor. No grill needed!
When I make these, I can’t help but sneak a bite before serving. The smell is just too tempting! Serve them with a side of coleslaw, and you’ll have a happy crowd!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Choose baby back ribs for more tenderness, or spare ribs for a bit more meat. If you’re vegetarian or looking for a lighter option, try using portobello mushrooms as a substitution with the same spice mix for flavor.
Mustard: Yellow mustard is great for its mild tang. If you’re a mustard lover, you might opt for spicy brown or even honey mustard for a sweeter profile. Remember, the mustard adds moisture and flavor!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth; however, if you don’t have it, sweet paprika works too. Feel free to adjust the cayenne based on your spice preference. For milder flavor, omit it entirely.
Brown Sugar: It’s optional but adds a hint of sweetness. If you’re watching sugar intake, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute. Both will work well without compromising taste.
How Do You Ensure Fall-Off-The-Bone Tenderness?
For perfectly tender ribs, the long, slow cooking method is key. Bake them low and slow at 300°F. This gentle heat allows the collagen in the meat to break down, making them juicy and tender.
- Cover tight with aluminum foil to keep moisture in while baking.
- Check for tenderness at around the 2.5-hour mark by poking with a fork. Look for the meat pulling away from the bones.
- Finish off at a higher temperature to crisp the outside but keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
Let them rest after baking to let the juices redistribute. This is a crucial step for keeping those ribs juicy and delicious!
Easy Oven Baked Mustard Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (about 2-3 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional for extra tang)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (optional for slight sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for mild heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This simple recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time. You will need approximately 2.5 to 3 hours for baking the ribs at a low temperature, plus an additional 15-20 minutes for crisping them up. In total, you’re looking at around 3 hours of time for tender and delicious ribs!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). A low temperature is essential for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs.
2. Prepare the Mustard Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the yellow mustard and Dijon mustard (if you choose to use it) with the olive oil. This mixture will add flavor and moisture to the ribs.
3. Create the Dry Spice Rub:
In another bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper. This spice mix will enhance the flavor of the ribs!
4. Prepare the Ribs:
Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels. This will help the mustard mixture stick better to the meat.
5. Coat the Ribs:
Brush each rack of ribs completely with the mustard mixture, ensuring all sides are coated well with that tangy goodness.
6. Apply the Spice Rub:
Evenly sprinkle the dry spice rub over both sides of the ribs. Press it gently into the meat so that the flavors penetrate nicely.
7. Arrange the Ribs for Baking:
Place the ribs bone-side down in a large baking dish or roasting pan. This helps keep them moist while baking.
8. Cover and Bake:
Tightly cover the dish with aluminum foil. This step traps steam inside, which helps to tenderize the ribs as they cook.
9. Bake Until Tender:
Bake in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs become tender and the meat is pulling back from the bones. Check at the 2.5-hour mark to see if they are ready!
10. Crisping Time:
After the ribs are tender, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 425°F (220°C). Bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. This will give the ribs a nice, browned, slightly crispy crust.
11. Rest and Serve:
Once baked, remove the ribs from the oven and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to settle. Then, slice them up and serve!
These mustard-coated ribs are not only easy to make but packed with flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Different Types of Pork Ribs?
Absolutely! You can use baby back ribs for more tenderness, or spare ribs if you prefer a meatier option. Both will work well with the mustard and spice rub!
What If I Don’t Have All the Spices?
No problem! If you’re missing any spices, feel free to substitute with your favorite seasonings. For example, regular paprika can replace smoked paprika, and you can skip the cayenne if you prefer mild flavors.
Can I Make These Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the ribs up to the baking step, cover them, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let them come to room temperature before placing them in the oven.
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can also toss them in a bit of BBQ sauce for extra moisture and flavor!
