Baked Neck Bones
Tender baked pork neck bones simmered with onions and peppers, seasoned with savory spices, perfect for comforting family dinners or hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the pork neck bones in a deep or wide pan.
- Cover the bones with chopped onion and bell pepper.
- Sprinkle the seasoning salt, garlic salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper over the ingredients.
- Add 2 cups of water to the pan.
- Cover the pan with a lid or aluminum foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the neck bones in the seasoning mixture overnight. You can substitute the bell pepper with diced celery or carrots for added sweetness. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños. This dish also works well with a slow cooker; simply adjust the cooking time accordingly. For an easy side, consider pairing with Bowknots for a delightful meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked neck bones over a bed of rice or with warm cornbread to soak up the juices. A side of collard greens or coleslaw complements the dish nicely, adding a fresh crunch. This hearty meal pairs beautifully with Mississippi Red Sauce For Ribs for an added depth of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the neck bones in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Neck Bones contains roughly 227 calories, with 9g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (367% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (80% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (74% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. It also contributes 21g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen neck bones for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen neck bones; just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating and cooking. This will ensure even cooking and better flavor absorption. If time is tight, you can also cook them from frozen, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
What can I do if the meat is not tender after baking?
If the meat isn't tender after the initial baking time, simply cover the pan again and return it to the oven, checking every 15-20 minutes. You may also add a bit more water to keep the moisture level up, which helps in tenderizing the meat.
Can I add vegetables to the dish?
Absolutely! Adding root vegetables like carrots or potatoes during the last hour of baking can enhance the flavor and create a complete meal. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as denser vegetables may take longer to soften.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).