How Long Does It Take to Cook Ribs on a Cast Iron?

Cooking ribs on cast iron is a great way to achieve a nice crispy exterior and juicy interior. Using cast iron to cook ribs is a popular and effective method that can help to create delicious, tender, and juicy meat with a crispy outer crust. You can achieve great results when using cast iron to cook ribs with proper care and attention.

Ribs cooked on cast iron should be ready between 20-30 minutes, depending on the size and type of the filet. After thirty minutes, the ribs are ready to be devoured. Cooking ribs on cast iron can result in a delicious and flavorful dish if done correctly. Just be sure to monitor the heat and timing closely to prevent burning.

What Time Taken to cook ribs on Cast Iron?

The time it takes for ribs to cook on cast iron depends on several factors, such as the ribs’ thickness and size, the skillet’s temperature, and the desired level of doneness.

As a general guideline, searing the ribs on both sides in a preheated cast iron skillet over medium-high heat will take about 3-4 minutes per side to achieve a nice brown crust. After searing, the ribs should be cooked in the oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) for pork ribs or 165°F (74°C) for beef ribs.

However, it’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs, as this is the most reliable way to determine when they are fully cooked. The exact time it takes for the ribs to cook will depend on the thickness of the meat and the desired level of doneness.

How to Cook Ribs on a Cast Iron?

To use cast iron for cooking ribs, start by heating the skillet on medium-high heat, and then add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Sear the ribs on both sides until they are browned and crispy, and then transfer the skillet to the oven to finish cooking. 

To cook ribs on cast iron, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Ingredients

• Ribs (pork or beef)
• Salt and pepper (or other seasonings of your choice)
• Oil (such as vegetable oil or olive oil)
• Barbecue sauce
• Garlic
• Onion
• Paprika
• Brown sugar
• Cayenne pepper

You can season the ribs with whatever spices and seasonings you prefer. Some people like to use a dry rub, while others prefer to brush the ribs with Barbecue sauce. You’ll also need a cast iron skillet and an oven to bake the ribs.

Cooking Directions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Season your ribs with your desired spices and seasoning.
• Heat your cast iron skillet on medium-high heat and add some oil.
• Once the skillet is hot, add the ribs and sear them on both sides until they are browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the ribs reaches 145°F (63°C) for pork ribs or 165°F (74°C) for beef ribs.
• Remove the skillet from the oven and let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

What Is the Perfect Temperature for Ribs Cooked on a Cast Iron?

When cooking ribs on cast iron, it’s best to start by searing them on the stove over medium-high heat until they are browned and crispy. Then, transfer the cast iron skillet to the oven and bake the ribs at 350°F (180°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the ribs reaches 145°F (63°C) for pork ribs or 165°F (74°C) for beef ribs.

A meat thermometer is the most accurate way to determine when the ribs are fully cooked and safe. Remember that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the ribs, so it’s important to monitor the internal temperature closely to avoid overcooking or undercooking the ribs.

What Is the Doneness Level for the Perfect Ribs Cooked on a Cast Iron?

The desired doneness level for cast iron ribs will depend on personal preference and the type of ribs you are cooking. Here are some general guidelines:

Pork ribs: The USDA recommends cooking pork ribs to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. The meat will be cooked at this temperature and slightly pink in the center. If you prefer your pork ribs more well-done, you can cook them to a higher temperature, but be careful not to overcook them, which can cause the meat to become tough and dry.

Beef ribs: Because beef is red meat, many prefer to cook beef at a higher temperature than pork ribs. The USDA recommends cooking beef ribs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. At this temperature, the meat will be well-done and fully cooked through.

It’s important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs, as this is the most accurate way to determine doneness. You can also use visual cues, such as the color and texture of the meat, to help gauge doneness. When fully cooked, the meat should be tender and juicy, with no pink or red color in the center.

The table below is a general reference for the doneness level of ribs when cooked in a cast iron skillet:

It is important to remember that these temperatures could change slightly depending on the type of rib and the preferred amount of doneness. A meat thermometer should be used to check the ribs’ internal temperature and ensure they are ready for consumption. The flesh should be moist and soft when thoroughly cooked, with no pink or red color present in the center.

Will My Ribs Burn if I Cook Them on Cast Iron?

If you’re cooking ribs on cast iron, there is a risk of burning if the heat is too high or if the ribs are left in the skillet for too long without being turned. However, using the right cooking techniques and carefully monitoring the heat and timing, you can cook delicious ribs on cast iron without burning them.

To prevent burning, start by heating your cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot, then add a small amount of oil to the skillet. Once the oil is hot, add the ribs and sear them on both sides for 3-4 minutes each until they are browned and crispy. Watch the ribs closely and adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

After searing the ribs, transfer the skillet to the oven and bake them at 350°F (180°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they reach the desired internal temperature. Check the ribs frequently and adjust the cooking time to prevent burning. You can also cover the ribs with foil if they are browning too quickly.

Is It Okay to Use Cast Iron to Cook Ribs?

Yes, it is okay to use cast iron to cook ribs. Cast iron is a great material for cooking ribs because it retains heat well and distributes it evenly, which can help to create a nice sear on the outside of the ribs and cook them evenly throughout.

When cooking ribs on cast iron, it’s important to follow proper cooking techniques and monitor the cooking process closely to ensure that the ribs are cooked to the appropriate temperature and are safe to eat. It’s also important to use moderate heat and not let the cast iron skillet get too hot, as this can cause the ribs to burn.

How to Cook Ribs on a Cast Iron?

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Ingredients

  

• Ribs (pork or beef)
• Salt and pepper (or other seasonings of your choice)
• Oil (such as vegetable oil or olive oil)
• Barbecue sauce
• Garlic
• Onion
• Paprika
• Brown sugar
• Cayenne pepper

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C)
• Season your ribs with your desired spices and seasoning.
• Heat your cast iron skillet on medium-high heat and add some oil.
• Once the skillet is hot, add the ribs and sear them on both sides until they are browned and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
• Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the ribs reaches 145°F (63°C) for pork ribs or 165°F (74°C) for beef ribs.
• Remove the skillet from the oven and let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Video

Keyword cooking ribs, meat thermometer

Conclusion

Cast iron can also be used for other rib cooking methods, such as smoking or grilling. Follow the proper cooking techniques and monitor the cooking process closely to avoid burning or overcooking the ribs. You can achieve delicious, perfectly cooked ribs using cast iron with proper care and attention.