Applebee’s Riblets
Applebee’s riblets are one of those menu items that keeps people coming back even when the rest of the menu is forgettable. They are small, they are messy, and they have that sticky, caramelized barbecue glaze that gets all over your fingers. The meat is pork loin back ribs cut into short pieces, braised low and slow until the bone practically slides out. An order at Applebee’s costs about $14.99. This recipe makes four full portions for around $12, and you can control exactly how sticky and saucy they get.
Pro Tips
- If your grocery store does not sell pre-cut riblets, buy a full rack of baby back ribs and ask the butcher to cut them crosswise into 2-inch strips. Most butchers will do this for free with their band saw.
- The apple juice in the braising liquid is not random — the natural sugars and acidity tenderize the pork and add a subtle sweetness that complements the barbecue glaze.
- Leftover riblets reheat perfectly. Place them in a foil-covered pan at 300F for 15 minutes with a splash of water to keep them moist. Do not microwave them — it turns the glaze gummy.
The Michelin Twist
Here are some ways to dress it up:
- Swap Sweet Baby Ray’s for a bourbon-peach glaze: Reduce 1 cup bourbon with diced peaches, brown sugar, and a cinnamon stick until syrupy. Brush this on instead of commercial barbecue sauce for a complex, adult flavor.
- Finish with a sprinkle of smoked Maldon salt and fresh thyme leaves: The large flaky crystals add crunch and bursts of smokiness, while the thyme adds an herbal note that cuts through the richness.
- Serve on a wooden board with pickled red onions and a micro herb salad: Quick-pickle thinly sliced red onion in red wine vinegar, sugar, and salt for 30 minutes. The acidity balances the sweet glaze perfectly.
Cost Breakdown
| Ingredient | Amount | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Pork loin back ribs | 3 lbs | $8.97 |
| Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ sauce | 1 cup | $0.75 |
| Apple juice | 1/2 cup | $0.25 |
| Honey | 2 tbsp | $0.30 |
| Soy sauce | 1 tbsp | $0.10 |
| Spices & dry rub | various | $0.65 |
| Apple cider vinegar | 3 tbsp | $0.10 |
| Liquid smoke | 1 tsp | $0.05 |
| Total | $11.17 |
Compare to $14.99 per order at Applebee’s (4 orders = $59.96) — save 81%
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 485
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbs: 24g
