Traeger Country-Style Pork Ribs

These Traeger Country-Style Pork Ribs are a straightforward, flavor-packed way to enjoy tender, saucy ribs with minimal fuss. My recipe uses a pellet grill for smoking these ribs before braising it in my favorite BBQ sauce until they fall-apart tender. With only three main ingredients and a hands-off cook time, it is easy enough for a weeknight and tasty enough for a backyard get-together with friends.

Traeger Country-Style Pork Ribs

Country-style pork ribs aren’t even technically ribs. They’re cut from the shoulder, which makes them meatier and more marbled. This gives them a texture that’s ideal for smoking and slow cooking. When seasoned well and cooked low and slow, they turn incredibly tender and stay juicy throughout the process.

After the ribs absorb a solid dose of smoke during the first phase, we finish them by braising in BBQ sauce wrapped in foil. This keeps the ribs moist and infuses them with sticky, tangy flavor that clings to every bite.

The recipe is flexible and reliable. You can use any BBQ rub you like, but my favorite is one of our custom rubs like our OWYD Everything Rub or my Spicy Pork Rub. The combination of rub, smoke, and sauce does all the heavy lifting, delivering results that are delicious and satisfying without needing complicated techniques.

These wood-smoked country-style pork ribs come out tender, flavorful, and fully coated in BBQ sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Simple ingredients – Just meat, rub, and sauce.
• Low-effort cooking – Pellet grills maintain temperature for consistent results.
• Rich flavor – A smoky base finished with sticky BBQ sauce.
• Meaty and filling – Great for feeding a crowd or saving for leftovers.
• Flexible recipe – Easy to adjust with different rubs, sauces, or pellet flavors.

Smoked Spare Ribs

Country Pork Ribs Shopping List

Wondering if you have to hit the store? Here’s the list of items you’ll need to make this recipe. For specific amounts, please refer to the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post.

Ingredients

• Country-Style Pork Ribs – These thick, boneless cuts are packed with flavor and ideal for slow cooking on the grill.
• OWYD Everything Rub – A well-rounded BBQ rub that seasons the meat and enhances the smoky flavor.
• BBQ Sauce – Pick a sauce that suits your taste, whether you prefer sweet, spicy, or tangy.

Smoked Party Ribs

How To Make Country-Style Ribs On The Smoker

This is just the overview so you can see what you’re actually getting into here. When you are cooking, you’ll want to use the full recipe at the bottom of the page.

1. Preheat pellet grill to 225°F.
2. Lay ribs on a tray or baking sheet. Season all sides thoroughly with the rub.
3. Place ribs directly on the grill grates. Smoke for 2 hours.
4. Transfer ribs to a grill-safe pan. Pour BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure they are fully coated.
5. Cover tightly with foil and return to the grill. Cook for 1 to 2 more hours, checking after 1 hour. When a fork slides easily into the meat, the ribs are done. If not, re-cover and continue cooking, checking every 20 minutes.

Grilled Korean-Style Flanken Short Ribs

Country-Style Pork Ribs FAQ

How should I store leftover ribs?

Store the ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, use a low oven or microwave with a splash of extra sauce to keep them juicy.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes. Fully cook the ribs, let them cool, and store in the fridge. Reheat in a covered dish at 300°F until warmed through.

Can I use a different cut of pork?

Yes. Bone-in country-style ribs or pork shoulder steaks can work, though cooking times may vary.

What other rubs or sauces work?

Any balanced BBQ rub will do. For sauces, use one that complements your preferred flavor style. Whether that’s Kansas City sweet, Carolina vinegar-based, or something with extra heat.

Smoked St. Louis Style Ribs (No Wrap)

Serve This With…

• Smoked Mac and Cheese
• Creamy or Vinegar Coleslaw
• Jalapeno Cheddar Cornbread
• Roasted Potatoes or Grilled Veggies