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Smoky Country Pork Ribs with Root Beer marinade

Smoky Country Pork Ribs with Root Beer Marinade

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 6

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed oven-safe pot Ideal for searing and baking ribs all in one pan.
  • Tongs For easy flipping during searing and handling the ribs.
  • Mixing bowl and whisk To make the marinade.
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Aluminum foil Helps lock in moisture during baking.
  • Basting brush Optional, for adding extra glaze in the final stage.

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade

  • 2 cups root beer not diet
  • ½ cup ketchup
  • ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional: ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper for heat

For the Ribs

  • 3 pounds boneless country-style pork ribs pork shoulder cut
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to season ribs before searing
  • Fresh chopped parsley or green onions optional garnish

Instructions
 

Make the Root Beer Marinade

  1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together root beer, ketchup, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and all the spices. The result should be a glossy, reddish-brown sauce that smells like BBQ heaven.

Prep the Ribs

  1. Pat your boneless pork ribs dry with paper towels. Sprinkle them with salt and pepper. This step is important—drying the ribs helps them sear better and get a golden crust.

Sear the Ribs

  1. In your Dutch oven or a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs for 2–3 minutes per side until they’re browned. This adds depth and locks in flavor. Work in batches if needed.

Add Marinade & Bake

  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F. Pour the marinade over the seared ribs in the pot. Cover tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake another 30 minutes to let the sauce thicken and caramelize slightly.
  2. Wondering how long to cook country style ribs in oven for best tenderness? Two hours at 325°F is the sweet spot for boneless country style pork ribs in oven—long enough to tenderize, short enough to avoid drying out.

Finish with Glaze (Optional)

  1. If you want that glossy, sticky restaurant-style finish, baste the ribs with extra sauce and broil for 2–3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.