These oven-baked mustard pork ribs are a true crowd-pleaser! The mustard adds a tangy kick, while the slow baking makes them super tender and juicy.
I love how easy this recipe is! Just slather on the mustard, pop them in the oven, and relax. Perfect for a chill night or a fun dinner with friends! 🍖✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Choose baby back ribs for tenderness and flavor. If you prefer, spare ribs work too, though they might take a bit longer to cook. You can also use pork shoulder, cut into chunks, for a different texture.
Dijon Mustard: I love using Dijon for its tangy flavor. If you prefer something milder, yellow mustard is a great substitute. For a sweet touch, honey mustard can also work well, just keep an eye on the sugar levels in your rub.
Spices: Smoked paprika adds depth, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika mixed with a dash of liquid smoke can work. Adjust the cayenne based on your spice tolerance. If you need it mild, simply skip it or replace it with sweet paprika.
Brown Sugar: This adds a hint of sweetness that balances the tang of the mustard. If you’re watching sugar intake, feel free to omit it, or replace it with coconut sugar or honey.
How Do I Remove the Membrane from Ribs?
Removing the membrane from the back of the ribs is crucial for tenderness. It prevents marinade and spice from penetrating the meat. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a sharp knife to gently lift a corner of the membrane at one end of the rack.
- Once you have a good grip, use a paper towel for better hold.
- Pull it off slowly and steadily. It should come off in one piece.
This little step makes a big difference in tenderness, so don’t skip it!
Easy Oven-Baked Mustard Pork Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 racks of pork ribs (about 2-3 pounds total)
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard (or yellow mustard)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 2 1/2 to 3 hours of baking time. You’ll have delicious, tender ribs ready to enjoy in about 3 hours or less!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, you need to warm up your oven. Set it to 300°F (150°C) and let it preheat while you prepare the ribs. This temperature ensures your ribs cook slowly and get super tender.
2. Prepare the Ribs:
Take the ribs out and remove the thin membrane on the back. This step is important for making the ribs tender. Use a sharp knife to lift one edge of the membrane, then pull it off with your fingers or a paper towel—it’s easier that way!
3. Dry and Season the Ribs:
Pat the ribs dry with paper towels so that the spices stick better. In a small bowl, mix together the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), and brown sugar (for a hint of sweetness). This is your dry rub!
4. Slather on the Mustard:
Generously coat both sides of the ribs with mustard. This adds a great taste and helps the dry rub stick to the meat.
5. Apply the Dry Rub:
Now sprinkle your dry rub all over both sides of the ribs. Make sure to press it lightly to help it adhere well to the mustard-covered ribs.
6. Get Ready to Bake:
Place the ribs in a baking dish with the meaty side facing up. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This will help to keep the moisture in while they bake!
7. Bake the Ribs:
Pop the dish into the preheated oven. Let the ribs bake for about 2 1/2 to 3 hours. You’re looking for the meat to be tender and pulling back from the bones.
8. Optional Crispy Finish:
If you like your ribs a bit crispy, take off the foil and increase the oven temperature to 400°F (205°C). Bake them uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the top is nicely browned and slightly caramelized.
9. Rest and Serve:
Once done, let the ribs rest for about 5 minutes before slicing into them. This helps keep the juices in. Enjoy your deliciously flavorful, tender mustard-baked pork ribs with your favorite sides!
FAQ for Easy Oven-Baked Mustard Pork Ribs
Can I Use Different Types of Ribs?
Absolutely! Baby back ribs are tender, but spare ribs work well too. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially for larger cuts. Adjust the baking time accordingly to ensure they’re tender.
What Can I Substitute for Dijon Mustard?
If you’re not a fan of Dijon, yellow mustard is a great alternative. For a sweeter flavor, try honey mustard. Each will give a different but delicious twist to the recipe!
How Should I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through, to maintain their tenderness.
Can I Make These Ribs Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the ribs up to the baking stage, then wrap them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just allow them to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting them in the oven.
