Baked Pork Riblets Recipe – Irresistibly Tender Easy & Quick
When most people think about pork ribs, their minds usually jump to the full-sized slabs of baby back ribs or smoky grilled spare ribs. But there’s a smaller, often forgotten cousin that deserves just as much attention—baked pork riblets. These are the flavorful, tender trimmings from the spare ribs, and when prepared right, they become juicy, oven-roasted bites of perfection.
Equipment
- Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Wire rack (optional but recommended for even heat circulation)
- Large mixing bowl
- Aluminum foil
- Meat thermometer
- Tongs
- Small saucepan (for reducing sauce if needed)
Ingredients
- Ingredients With Simple Alternatives
- 2 lbs pork riblets or pork tips, pork rib sections
- 1 tsp sea salt or kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika or regular paprika + ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos for gluten-free
- 3 tbsp tomato paste or ketchup if in a pinch
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water with ½ chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup for variation
Instructions
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Set your oven to 325°F (163°C).
- Use this low and slow method to help break down tough connective tissue.
- This ensures your baked pork riblets come out tender and juicy.
- Step 2: Prep the Riblets
- Pat the riblets completely dry using paper towels.
- Removing moisture helps the seasoning stick.
- A dry surface also allows for a crispier exterior during baking.
- Step 3: Season Generously
- In a large mixing bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Toss the pork riblets thoroughly until each piece is well coated.
- Let them sit for 5–10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
- Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a separate bowl, stir together tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, honey, and chicken broth.
- Mix until smooth—this will act as both marinade and basting sauce.
- Adjust sweetness or tang to your preference.
- Step 5: Arrange for Baking
- Line a baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup.
- Place a wire rack on top if available for better air circulation.
- Arrange the seasoned riblets in a single layer.
- Brush them with half of the prepared sauce.
- Step 6: Bake Covered
- Cover the tray tightly with aluminum foil.
- Place in the oven and bake for 45 minutes.
- This step traps moisture and begins the tenderizing process.
- Step 7: Baste and Finish Uncovered
- Remove the foil and brush the riblets with the remaining sauce.
- Return the tray to the oven uncovered.
- Bake for an additional 30 minutes until the sauce thickens and caramelizes.
- Watch for slightly crisp, sticky edges.
- Step 8: Rest and Serve
- Check internal temperature—riblets should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
- Let them rest at room temperature for 5 minutes.
- Serve warm and enjoy your baked pork riblets with your favorite sides.