USDA: pork ribs are safe at 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest, but they're chewy there. For tender ribs, aim for 180-195°F (ThermoWorks, National Pork Board).
- USDA safe minimum
- 145°F63°C internal temperature
- Rest time
- 3 minBefore carving or eating
- Doneness range
- 180–195°FTender to very tender
- Safe & popular
- 180°FTender
- 180°FTender82°C
- 195°FVery tender91°C
Safe minimums from USDA FSIS and FoodSafety.gov. Checked .
Pork ribs temperature chart
| Doneness | °F | °C | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tender | 180°F | 82°C | National Pork Board's 'best' temp; ThermoWorks: done at 180-195°F |
| Very tender | 195°F | 91°C | top of ThermoWorks' 180-195°F range |
Doneness targets come from the culinary sources listed below. USDA's food-safety minimum is 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest; anything below it is a personal risk choice.
Safe temperature for pork ribs
USDA: pork ribs are safe at 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest, but they're chewy there. For tender ribs, aim for 180-195°F (ThermoWorks, National Pork Board).
When to take it off the heat
ThermoWorks suggests holding ribs between 180 and 195°F for at least 30 minutes, then checking texture before pulling.
Where to put the thermometer
Use a thin probe between two bones at the center of the rack, about halfway down, without touching bone (ThermoWorks).
Questions people ask
What internal temp are ribs done?
Safe at 145°F; ThermoWorks says ribs are generally done (tender) at 180-195°F.
How do you take the temperature of ribs?
Slip a thin probe between two bones in the middle of the rack, centered in the meat and off the bone.
What temp are ribs done?
USDA: pork ribs are safe at 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest, but they're chewy there. For tender ribs, aim for 180-195°F (ThermoWorks, National Pork Board).
What temp to cook ribs in oven?
USDA: pork ribs are safe at 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest, but they're chewy there. For tender ribs, aim for 180-195°F (ThermoWorks, National Pork Board).
What temp are pork ribs done?
USDA: pork ribs are safe at 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest, but they're chewy there. For tender ribs, aim for 180-195°F (ThermoWorks, National Pork Board).
What temperature are ribs done?
USDA: pork ribs are safe at 145°F (63°C) with a 3-minute rest, but they're chewy there. For tender ribs, aim for 180-195°F (ThermoWorks, National Pork Board).