Active Time: ~30 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 25 minutes
Estimated Rating: ★★★★½ (4.5/5)
Sticky Garlic Mustard BBQ Rib Bites are the ultimate party appetizer or game day snack! These rib bites are seared, coated in a tangy BBQ-mustard-garlic sauce, and baked until sticky and caramelized. Perfect for sharing, they’re packed with bold flavors and sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs, cut into individual riblets)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite variety)
- 4 large garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons yellow or Dijon mustard
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Ribs:
Cut the ribs into individual riblets. Pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). - Sear the Ribs:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the riblets in batches and sear on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove and set aside. - Sauté Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. - Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the BBQ sauce and mustard, mixing well with the onions and garlic. Simmer for 2 minutes. - Coat the Ribs:
Return the seared riblets to the skillet, tossing to coat them thoroughly in the sauce. If your skillet isn’t large enough, transfer everything to a baking dish and pour the sauce over the ribs. - Bake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the skillet or baking dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, baste the ribs with sauce, and bake uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until the sauce is sticky and caramelized.
Alternative (for extra caramelization): Broil the ribs for 2-3 minutes at the end, watching closely so they don’t burn. - Serve:
Let the rib bites rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired. Serve hot as an appetizer or party snack!
Note: If you need a good BBQ sauce or smoked paprika, you can find them on Amazon.
