Ritz Cracker Crusted Ribs

These ribs are a new spin on a classic—coated in Ritz cracker crumbs then pan-fried until crispy. Paired with a zesty buttermilk ranch dressing for added flavor and a little kick. Delicious and perfect for parties.

Ritz Cracker Crusted Ribs
Ritz Cracker Crusted Ribs

These ribs are a new spin on a classic—coated in Ritz cracker crumbs then pan-fried until crispy. Paired with a zesty buttermilk ranch dressing for added flavor and a little kick. Delicious and perfect for parties.

  • Preparing Time: 4 hours
  • Total Time: -
  • Served Person: 24

Step-by-step

  • Preheat oven to 250 degrees F.
  • Put a wire rack over a shallow baking pan and pour 1 cup of water into the pan.
  • Season the ribs with a pinch of salt and pepper.
  • Place the ribs on the rack, meaty side up.
  • Slide them into the oven and roast slowly.
  • Check every hour or so for doneness.
  • Roast until you can gently tear the meat between the bones, or they reach an internal temperature of 180 degrees F, about 2 1/2 to 3 hours.
  • Remove from oven and set aside to cool completely.
  • When ribs are cooled, cut into individual ribs.
  • Pulse Ritz Crackers into crumbs in a food processor to make about 2 cups crumbs.
  • Mix crumbs with granulated garlic, kosher salt and coarse black pepper.
  • Coat each rib in flour, dip in egg wash, and then coat with Ritz crumb mixture. Set aside.
  • Heat oil in a deep 9-inch skillet to 350 degrees F.
  • Place ribs meat side down into hot oil (ribs should be about 3/4 covered).
  • Fry in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pan as this will bring down the oil temperature.
  • Cook approximately 1 1/2 to 2 minutes until ribs are crispy and golden brown.
  • Remove ribs from pan; drain on paper towels.
  • While ribs are still hot, season with 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning.
  • Serve with Zesty Buttermilk Ranch Dressing.
  • To make the Zesty Buttermilk Ranch Dressing, whisk together mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, garlic, chives, grated cheese, and Cajun seasoning in a bowl.
  • Pour into a container with a lid and refrigerate until needed.

Ritz Cracker Crusted Ribs: A Party Favorite

As a busy mom, I'm always looking for recipes that are both delicious and easy to make. These Ritz Cracker Crusted Ribs fit the bill perfectly! They're incredibly flavorful, with the perfect balance of crispy, crunchy coating and tender, juicy meat. And the best part? They're surprisingly simple to prepare, even when you're juggling a million other things. I first encountered this recipe at a friend's barbecue, and I was immediately blown away. The ribs were so tender, falling right off the bone. The Ritz cracker coating added a delightful textural contrast, and the zesty buttermilk ranch dressing was the perfect complement, adding a creamy tang that cut through the richness of the ribs. The combination of flavors is simply divine, and I guarantee everyone will be asking for seconds.

I've made these ribs several times now, and they always impress. They're perfect for parties, potlucks, or just a special weeknight dinner. They're easy enough to make ahead of time, which is a huge bonus for busy schedules. I usually prepare the ribs a day or two in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Then, all I have to do is fry them up just before serving. The crispy coating holds up beautifully, even after a day in the fridge, which is fantastic! I've even experimented with different types of crackers and seasonings, and each time it's been a delightful culinary adventure. Adding a smoky paprika or some chili powder gives them a whole new dimension of flavor. I highly recommend trying this recipe—it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Tips and Tricks for Rib Perfection:

Choosing the Right Ribs: For the best results, select high-quality St. Louis-style ribs. These ribs have a good meat-to-bone ratio, ensuring juicy and tender results.

Slow and Low Roasting: The slow roasting process is essential for tender ribs. The low temperature allows the collagen to break down, making the meat incredibly tender. Don't rush this step; patience is key!

Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the ribs, it's crucial not to overcrowd the pan. This can lower the oil temperature, resulting in soggy, rather than crispy, ribs.

The Secret is in the Coating: The Ritz cracker coating is what makes these ribs truly special. Using fresh crackers ensures a nice, crisp coating. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and flavors to find your perfect rib-coating combination.

Zesty Buttermilk Ranch Dressing: This homemade ranch dressing is unbelievably flavorful and easy to make. It complements the richness of the ribs perfectly and adds a lovely creamy tang.

Serving Suggestions: These ribs are delicious on their own, but you can also serve them with your favorite sides. Some of my favorites include coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked beans, and potato salad.

Making it a Meal: These ribs are a fantastic centerpiece for any meal. You could serve them with a simple side salad and some crusty bread, or make it a more elaborate feast with various side dishes. No matter how you serve them, I guarantee these ribs will be a hit.

These Ritz Cracker Crusted Ribs are a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. With a little time and effort, you can create a culinary masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready for a rib-tastic experience!