Craving tender, juicy, fall-off-the-bone rib tips but don't want to spend hours tending a smoker? This easy oven-baked recipe delivers incredible flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture without the fuss. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, these rib tips are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, showcasing the best of homemade cooking. Get ready to experience a delicious dish that's both easy and impressive!
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs pork rib tips, trimmed of excess fat
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade!)
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Rib Tips
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Pat the rib tips dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up beautifully in the oven.
Step 2: Create the Marinade
In a large bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This simple marinade adds depth of flavor to the ribs.
Step 3: Marinate the Ribs
Place the rib tips in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor. The longer they marinate, the more delicious they'll be!
Step 4: Bake the Rib Tips
Place the marinated rib tips in a single layer in a large baking dish. Pour any remaining marinade over the ribs. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
Step 5: Add BBQ Sauce & Finish Cooking
Remove the foil and brush the rib tips generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 30-45 minutes, or until the ribs are tender and the sauce is caramelized and sticky. You'll know they're done when the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
Tips for the Best Oven-Baked Rib Tips:
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Ensure the rib tips are in a single layer for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: For perfectly cooked ribs, check the internal temperature. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 190-200°F (88-93°C).
- Adjust cooking time: Oven temperatures can vary, so adjust the cooking time as needed. Always check for doneness.
- Get creative with BBQ sauce: Experiment with different BBQ sauces to find your favorite flavor profile. Spicy, sweet, smoky—the possibilities are endless!
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for extra heat.
- Add some sweetness: Include a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup to the marinade for a touch of sweetness.
- Try different seasonings: Experiment with other spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate per serving (assuming 6 servings) is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
These oven-baked rib tips are a fantastic example of healthy meals that are quick dinner ideas. They're perfect for busy weeknights and offer a delicious alternative to takeout. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe, and remember to share your culinary creations!