12 BBQ Pork Belly Recipes That Are Pure Meaty Goodness – get ready to experience pork belly like never before. When it comes to indulgent, flavor-packed barbecue, few cuts can compete with pork belly’s perfect marriage of juicy meat and melt-in-your-mouth fat. These 12 recipes transform this humble cut into extraordinary dishes that will have everyone at your cookout begging for seconds. From sticky-sweet glazed slabs to spicy dry-rubbed bites, each preparation celebrates pork belly’s incredible versatility on the grill, smoker, or even in your oven.
We’ve gathered the ultimate collection of pork belly barbecue techniques that deliver maximum flavor with foolproof methods. Imagine thick slices with a caramelized crust giving way to tender, buttery layers beneath, or bite-sized burnt ends with a perfect balance of smoke, spice, and sweetness. Whether you’re craving traditional Korean-style BBQ, American smokehouse flavors, or innovative global twists, these recipes will take your pork belly game to new heights. Fire up your grill – it’s time to turn this affordable cut into your most impressive barbecue yet.
Cider Braised Pork Belly
Cider Braised Pork Belly is a delicious and comforting dish that highlights the tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality of pork belly. Infused with the sweet and tangy notes of apple cider, this recipe offers a perfect balance of flavors that will leave everyone wanting more. It’s surprisingly simple to make, making it a great choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
The slow braising process allows the pork belly to absorb all the delicious flavors, resulting in a dish that is rich and satisfying. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you have a meal that is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly, skin-on
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- In a large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the pork belly with salt and pepper, then sear it in the pot until browned on all sides.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until softened.
- Pour in the apple cider and chicken broth, then stir in the rosemary and apple cider vinegar.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and transfer it to the oven. Braise for 2 to 2.5 hours or until the pork belly is tender.
- Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with the braising liquid drizzled over the top.
Honey Garlic Pork Belly Skewers
Honey garlic pork belly skewers are a fantastic choice for anyone who loves a sweet and savory combination. The rich, tender pork belly is perfectly complemented by a sticky honey garlic glaze that caramelizes beautifully when grilled. These skewers not only burst with flavor but are also easy to prepare, making them ideal for a casual barbecue or a fun weeknight dinner.
Each bite is a delightful mix of juicy pork and a slightly crispy exterior, with the honey garlic sauce giving a mouthwatering sweetness. Pair them with fresh veggies or a dipping sauce for a complete meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes)
- Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, minced garlic, rice vinegar, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Pork: Add the pork belly cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for better flavor.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated pork belly onto the soaked skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
- Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pork is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce or fresh vegetables!
Spicy Chipotle Pork Belly Tacos
Spicy Chipotle Pork Belly Tacos are a delicious way to elevate your taco night. With tender, smoky pork belly infused with rich chipotle flavors, these tacos pack a punch that’s hard to resist. They’re easy to make, perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Each bite combines the crispy texture of well-cooked pork belly with the warm softness of tortillas, complemented by fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and yields mouthwatering results.
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly, diced
- 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). In a bowl, mix the diced pork belly with chipotle sauce, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well coated.
- Spread the pork belly on a baking sheet and roast for about 2 hours, or until the pork is crispy and tender. Stir halfway through for even cooking.
- While the pork is roasting, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until pliable.
- Once the pork is done, fill each tortilla with the pork belly, top with fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Teriyaki Glazed Pork Belly Bites
Teriyaki glazed pork belly bites are a delicious treat that combines the rich, savory flavor of pork belly with a sweet and tangy teriyaki glaze. These bites are tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor, making them perfect for any gathering or simple weeknight dinner. Plus, they’re easy to prepare, so you won’t be spending all day in the kitchen.
The sticky teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully as the pork belly cooks, giving each bite a wonderful texture and taste. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions, these bites not only look great but also pack a punch in the flavor department. They’re sure to impress anyone who tries them!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Green onions, sliced, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to create the teriyaki glaze.
- Place the pork belly pieces on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush them generously with the teriyaki glaze.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until the pork belly is golden and crispy.
- Once done, remove from the oven and drizzle with any remaining glaze. Garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
Korean BBQ Pork Belly Lettuce Wraps
Korean BBQ pork belly lettuce wraps are a delightful combination of rich, savory flavors wrapped in crisp greens. Each bite brings together tender chunks of pork belly, fresh vegetables, and a variety of sauces that create a burst of taste. Easy to make, these wraps are perfect for casual dining or impressing guests at your next gathering.
The sweetness of the marinade, paired with the crunch of lettuce and the zing from pickled vegetables, makes these wraps not only delicious but also customizable. Feel free to add your favorite toppings or sauces for a personal touch!
Ingredients
- 1 lb pork belly, cut into small cubes
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 head of lettuce, leaves separated
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sauces: soy sauce, sriracha, or peanut sauce
Instructions
- Marinate the Pork: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, minced garlic, gochujang, and black pepper. Add the pork belly and mix well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Pork: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated pork belly and cook until browned and crispy, about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Prepare the Wraps: While the pork is cooking, wash and dry the lettuce leaves. Place a few pieces of pork belly on each leaf, then top with julienned carrots, bell peppers, and fresh cilantro.
- Serve: Drizzle with your choice of sauces and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Roll up the lettuce and enjoy!
Herb-Crusted Pork Belly Roast
Herb-Crusted Pork Belly Roast is a fantastic dish that brings together rich flavors and crispy textures. The juicy pork belly is seasoned with a delightful blend of herbs, making every bite a flavorful experience. This recipe is surprisingly simple to make, allowing you to impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen.
The combination of herbs creates a fragrant crust that perfectly complements the succulent meat. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a casual weekend meal, this roast is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 3 pounds pork belly, skin on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh sage, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern. This helps the fat render and crisps the skin.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, sea salt, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, sage, garlic, Dijon mustard, and honey to form a paste.
- Rub the herb mixture all over the pork belly, ensuring it gets into the scored skin.
- Place the pork belly on a roasting rack in a baking dish. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the dish.
- Roast in the oven for 30 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 325°F (160°C) and continue roasting for another 1.5 hours, basting occasionally.
- Once cooked, let the pork belly rest for 15 minutes before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
Smoky Maple Glazed Pork Belly
Smoky Maple Glazed Pork Belly is a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors. The rich, smoky taste perfectly complements the sweetness of the maple glaze, making it an irresistible dish. While it may seem fancy, the recipe is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters.
With each bite, you’ll experience the tender, juicy meat paired with a glossy, caramelized finish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork belly
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together maple syrup, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Marinate the Pork: Place the pork belly in a ziplock bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal the bag, making sure to coat the meat well. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the pork belly from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later.
- Grill the Pork: Place the pork belly on the grill and cook for about 15-20 minutes per side, basting with the reserved marinade frequently until the exterior is caramelized and the internal temperature reaches 190°F (88°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the pork belly rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy the delicious flavors!
Crispy Asian BBQ Pork Belly
This recipe for Crispy Asian BBQ Pork Belly is a delightful blend of rich flavors and satisfying textures. The pork belly becomes tender while still achieving that perfect crispy skin, making each bite an absolute treat. With its sweet and savory glaze, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the dinner table.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and allows you to enjoy delicious homemade BBQ pork belly in no time. It pairs wonderfully with rice and fresh veggies, making for a complete meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly, skin on
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon five-spice powder
- Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Belly: Score the skin of the pork belly in a crisscross pattern without cutting into the meat. This ensures crispy skin. Pat it dry with paper towels.
- Marinate: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and five-spice powder. Place the pork belly in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over it. Seal and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking tray with foil and place a rack on top.
- Roast: Remove the pork belly from the marinade, reserving the liquid. Place it skin-side up on the rack. Roast for 2 to 2.5 hours, basting with the reserved marinade every 30 minutes.
- Crisp the Skin: Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and roast for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and bubbly. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Once finished, let the pork belly rest for about 10 minutes. Slice and serve with sesame seeds and green onions on top. Enjoy!
Smoked BBQ Pork Belly Sliders
Smoked BBQ pork belly sliders are a delicious treat that combine tender, juicy pork belly with the smoky flavor of barbecue. These sliders are perfect for gatherings, game day, or a cozy night in. With their rich taste and mouthwatering texture, they’re sure to satisfy anyone who takes a bite.
Making these sliders is straightforward, even for beginners. You’ll be amazed at how simple it is to create such an impressive dish. Plus, they’re easy to customize with your favorite toppings!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly, skin removed
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 8 slider buns
- Pickles and coleslaw (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Belly: Mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt in a bowl. Rub this mixture all over the pork belly and let it marinate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight in the refrigerator.
- Smoke the Pork Belly: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Place the pork belly in the smoker and cook for 3 to 4 hours until it reaches an internal temperature of 190°F (88°C).
- Glaze and Rest: Brush barbecue sauce on the pork belly during the last 30 minutes of smoking. Once done, remove it from the smoker and let it rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Slice and Assemble: Slice the pork belly into bite-sized pieces. Place a piece of meat on each slider bun, add pickles and coleslaw, and drizzle with extra barbecue sauce if desired. Serve and enjoy!
BBQ Pork Belly Burger
The BBQ Pork Belly Burger is a delightful twist on the classic burger, bringing rich, smoky flavors to the table. With tender pork belly cooked to perfection, this burger offers a satisfying crunch from the crispy bits, complemented by fresh toppings and a drizzle of tangy barbecue sauce. It’s simple enough for a weekend cookout, yet impressive enough to serve at gatherings.
This burger features layers of juicy pork belly, melted cheese, and a mix of vibrant veggies that elevate the taste. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, making it a must-try for any BBQ lover!
Ingredients
- 1 pound pork belly, sliced into thick strips
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 1 cup lettuce, shredded
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/4 cup pickles
- BBQ sauce, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Belly: Season the pork belly strips with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the Pork Belly: Place the seasoned pork belly on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until crispy and cooked through.
- Melt the Cheese: In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each piece of pork belly. Cover until melted.
- Assemble the Burger: Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill. Layer the lettuce, pork belly, tomato, and pickles on the bottom bun. Drizzle with BBQ sauce and top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve: Enjoy your BBQ Pork Belly Burger hot, paired with fries or a fresh salad!
Lemon Pepper Pork Belly Ribs
Lemon Pepper Pork Belly Ribs are a delightful twist on traditional BBQ ribs. This recipe brings a zesty, citrus flavor that perfectly balances the rich, fatty goodness of pork belly. The combination of lemon and pepper creates a refreshing pop while enhancing the natural flavors of the meat. Plus, it’s simple enough for both seasoned grillers and those new to BBQ!
The ribs are marinated in a mix of lemon juice, zest, and pepper, then grilled to perfection, resulting in a tender and juicy dish. Perfect for summer gatherings or family dinners, these ribs are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly ribs
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine lemon juice, lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, olive oil, and salt. Mix well.
- Marinate the Ribs: Place the pork belly ribs in a large bowl or zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the ribs, ensuring they are well coated. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Ribs: Remove the ribs from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a nice char and are cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the ribs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pork Belly Burnt Ends
Pork belly burnt ends are a delicious twist on the classic burnt ends made from brisket. These bite-sized pieces of pork belly are seasoned and smoked to perfection, delivering rich, smoky flavors and a melt-in-your-mouth texture. They are slightly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside, making them a hit at any gathering.
Making pork belly burnt ends is simple and requires minimal ingredients. The process involves seasoning, slow smoking, and glazing with your favorite BBQ sauce. They are perfect as an appetizer or a main dish paired with sides like coleslaw or cornbread.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- Wood chips for smoking (hickory or applewood)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pork Belly: Start by cutting the pork belly into 1-inch cubes. In a bowl, mix paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this seasoning mixture all over the pork belly pieces.
- Preheat the Smoker: Preheat your smoker to 225°F (107°C). Add your choice of wood chips to create smoke.
- Smoke the Pork Belly: Place the seasoned pork belly cubes in the smoker, making sure they are spread out. Smoke for about 2-3 hours, or until they reach a nice bark and are tender.
- Glaze and Finish: Once smoked, transfer the pork belly pieces to a baking dish. Pour BBQ sauce over them, cover with foil, and return to the smoker. Increase the temperature to 250°F (121°C) and cook for an additional 1 hour.
- Serve: Remove from the smoker, let cool for a few minutes, and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful pork belly burnt ends!
Final Thoughts
Pork belly is the unsung hero of barbecue – an affordable cut that rewards patience and creativity with unbelievable flavor and texture. As you work through these recipes, you’ll discover how different cooking methods and flavor profiles can completely transform this single ingredient. The key lies in rendering the fat slowly while developing that perfect crispy exterior. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these pork belly recipes prove that sometimes the simplest ingredients make the most spectacular meals. Just be warned: once you master these techniques, you might never look at pork belly the same way again!
