These Easy Greek Ribs are a tasty way to enjoy a flavorful meal! Baked to perfection and then grilled, they are juicy and have that delicious smoky flavor. Plus, they are simple to make!
I love that you can prepare these ribs ahead of time and finish them off on the grill when you’re ready. Pair them with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a great dinner. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Ribs: Baby back ribs are tender and meaty, but you can also use spare ribs for a more flavorful option. If you want a leaner cut, try pork loin ribs. Just note that cooking times may vary!
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and flavor. If you’re out, avocado oil is a great substitute with a similar flavor profile, or you can use vegetable oil if you want a more neutral taste.
Herbs & Spices: Oregano is key for that Greek flavor, but you can swap for Italian seasoning if that’s what you have. I prefer using fresh herbs when available, as they add a brighter flavor.
Cayenne Pepper: It adds a nice kick! If you’re not a fan of heat, feel free to skip it. Smoked paprika can also provide a bit of warmth without the spiciness.
Tzatziki Sauce: This cool and creamy dip pairs wonderfully with the ribs. You can make a simple version by mixing yogurt, cucumber, garlic, and dill or buy store-bought if you’re short on time.
How Do I Get Tender Ribs?
For truly tender ribs, slow cooking is key. Cooking them at a low temperature allows the fat to render, making the meat succulent.
- Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cover the ribs with foil and bake them for 2.5 to 3 hours. This helps to keep the moisture in.
- After baking, let the ribs rest for about 10 minutes before grilling. This redistributes the juices for tender bites.
Easy Greek Ribs Recipe (Baked Then Grilled)
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Ribs:
- 2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
For the Marinade:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
For Garnish and Serving:
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation, and then you’ll need to bake the ribs for 2.5 to 3 hours. After that, it only takes about 10 minutes to grill them. Overall, you can enjoy hot, tasty Greek ribs in approximately 3 hours, including cooking and resting time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). This low temperature helps the ribs become tender while baking.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if you want a little heat). This tasty marinade is what gives your ribs that fabulous Greek flavor!
3. Prepare the Ribs:
Take your pork ribs and place them in a large baking dish or on a baking sheet lined with foil. Generously brush the prepared marinade over the ribs, ensuring both sides are well coated. The more, the merrier!
4. Bake the Ribs:
Cover the ribs tightly with foil to keep them moist, and then place them in the preheated oven. Bake for about 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. Your kitchen is going to smell amazing!
5. Rest and Grill:
Once the ribs are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 10 minutes. While they rest, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This will help to give those ribs a beautiful char!
6. Grill the Ribs:
Carefully transfer the baked ribs to the grill. Cook them for about 5-8 minutes on each side, brushing with any remaining marinade. You want to grill them until they get some delicious grill marks and caramelization.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once grilled, remove the ribs from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve your Greek ribs garnished with fresh chopped parsley and a side of cool tzatziki sauce for dipping. Enjoy every bite of this tasty dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! While this recipe is designed for pork ribs, you can also use chicken wings or thighs. Just adjust the cooking time: chicken typically takes less time to bake, around 1 to 1.5 hours at 300°F, until fully cooked.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder ribs, simply omit the cayenne pepper. For a spicier kick, you can increase its amount or add some crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade. Just be sure to taste as you go to ensure it suits your palate!
How Can I Store Leftover Ribs?
Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or warm them on the grill for a few minutes on each side.
Can I Make the Marinade Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the marinade up to 24 hours in advance! Just store it in a sealed container in the fridge. Allow it to come to room temperature before using, and make sure to mix it well again before applying to the ribs.
