Pork rib tips, also known as riblets, are a bonafide barbecue classic These meaty morsels pack incredible flavor into every tasty bite The problem is rib tips can take hours to cook low and slow on the grill. But I’ve discovered a foolproof method to achieve succulent, juicy pork rib tips in just 30 minutes thanks to a high heat oven.
Keep reading to learn my secrets for fast oven-baked rib tips that rival those made by championship pitmasters. With just a few simple tricks, you’ll be enjoying tender and delicious riblets any night of the week without spending all day tending a smoker.
Benefits of Cooking Rib Tips in the Oven
Rib tips are ideal for fast high-heat oven cooking. Here’s why:
- Smaller and leaner than ribs, so they cook quicker
- Oven seals in juices for tender, not dried out meat
- Easy to get crispy exterior using high heat
- No need to constantly monitor like on the grill
- Pan catches delicious barbecue sauce drippings
Oven-baking gives you finger-licking rib tips packed with smoky flavor in way less time. Let’s go over the easy process
Ingredients Needed
To make these barbecue-worthy rib tips, you’ll need
- 1.5 lbs pork rib tips – Buy them pre-cut for easy weeknight cooking
- Dry rub – Use your favorite or make a simple blend
- Olive oil – For coating and Browning
- Barbecue sauce – Brush on ribs during last 10 minutes
That’s it! Now let’s get these ribs in the oven.
How to Cook Rib Tips to Perfection
Follow these simple steps for oven-baked rib tips just like the barbecue shack makes.
1. Prepare the Rib Tips
- Pat dry rib tips
- Generously season all over with barbecue dry rub
- Massage in rub so it adheres
- Drizzle lightly with olive oil
2. Bake at High Heat
- Preheat oven to 450°F
- Place rib tips on a baking sheet or pan
- Bake for 15 minutes
3. Steam Them Perfectly Tender
- Remove from oven after 15 minutes
- Tightly cover pan with foil
- Return to oven for 15 minutes more
4. Finish with Sweet & Smoky BBQ Sauce
- Remove foil and brush ribs with sauce
- Bake uncovered 5-10 minutes until caramelized
That’s it – perfectly cooked barbecue-style rib tips in about 30 minutes thanks to the hot oven.
Serve Immediately and Enjoy!
Let ribs rest a minute before diving in. The meat will be fall-off-the-bone tender with a slightly crisp crust and tons of flavor in every bite from the rub and sauce.
Serve the saucy ribs with classic barbecue sides like cornbread, coleslaw, baked beans, or a fresh salad. A cold beer or homemade lemonade makes the ideal beverage pairing.
Oven Rib Tip Perfection Tips
- Choose leaner rib tips over fattier ribs for faster cooking
- Apply rub generously and massage in for max flavor
- Use foil to steam and speed up cooking time
- Brush sauce on towards end to prevent burning
- For charred bits, broil last 1-2 minutes
- Let rest before cutting for juicier meat
Frequently Asked Questions
Still have questions about making these easy oven-baked rib tips? Here are some common FAQs:
What cut of pork is best for rib tips?
Look for pork loin back ribs and request them cut into individual rib tips. Avoid country-style ribs which are thicker.
Can I use my favorite barbecue dry rub?
Absolutely! Use any spice blend you love to infuse the rib tips with finger-licking flavor.
Do I really need foil for steaming?
Yes, covering the pan with foil helps speed up cooking by braising the ribs perfectly tender.
Should I flip and cook both sides?
No need to flip. Cooking on one side helps crisp that outerside. Just rotate pan halfway through.
What temperature should I reheat leftover rib tips?
Reheat in a 300°F oven until warmed through, about 15 minutes. Don’t microwave which makes them rubbery.
Can I prepare a big batch for meal prep?
You sure can! These ribs keep well for 4-5 days refrigerated and freeze well too.
Start Enjoying Saucy, Tender Rib Tips Tonight
My simple high-heat oven method lets you skip the smoker and enjoy incredible barbecue pork rib tips any night of the week. Ditch the all-day grill session and make these easy oven-baked ribs instead.
Coat in a flavorful dry rub, braise in the oven, then finish with sweet and smoky barbecue sauce. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have insanely delicious rib tips the whole family will request again and again.
