There’s a certain joy that comes from the sound of sizzling pork belly filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas. I discovered the magic of oven-baked pork belly slices during one of those cozy Sunday afternoons spent experimenting with spices. As I inhaled the deliciously rich fragrance wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but daydream about all the unforgettable gatherings where crispy, tender pork belly would take center stage.
Using just a handful of ingredients, this recipe elevates humble pork belly into something truly special. Smoky paprika, aromatic garlic, and the subtle warmth of Chinese 5 spice come together to create a dish that is not only easy to prepare but also delivers incredible flavor that your friends and family will rave about. Whether you’re hosting a weekend dinner or simply looking to treat yourself to a delightful homemade meal, these oven-baked pork belly slices promise to satisfy every craving. Let’s get started on making this crowd-pleaser that’s destined to become your new go-to!
Why will you adore Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices?
Irresistible Crunch: The crispy exterior, achieved through baking, offers a satisfying texture that pairs perfectly with the tender meat.
Simple Ingredients: You only need a few basic pantry staples to create this delicious dish, making it a breeze for any home cook.
Flavor Explosion: The blend of smoked paprika and Chinese 5 spice infuses each slice with deep, robust flavors that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive gathering or a cozy night in, these pork belly slices are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Time Efficient: With just a cook time of 40 to 50 minutes, you can quickly whip up a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Once you serve these, your guests will be raving about the taste and asking for your secret recipe. Enjoy them as a main dish or chop them into bites for a stunning appetizer!
Oven Baked Pork Belly Ingredients
• Elevate your next home-cooked meal with these simple ingredients to make your oven baked pork belly slices shine!
For the Pork
• Pork belly – Use high-quality slices for the best flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture.
For the Spice Mix
• Smoked paprika – Adds a rich, smoky flavor that beautifully complements the pork.
• Garlic granules – Provides a robust, aromatic taste without the hassle of fresh garlic.
• Chinese 5 spice – This unique blend imparts warmth and depth, elevating your dish.
• Brown sugar – Balances the spices with a touch of sweetness, enhancing caramelization.
• Cayenne pepper – Introduces a subtle kick; adjust to taste for preferred heat level.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; pink Himalayan salt offers a lovely, mineral-rich taste.
How to Make Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or baking paper. This will help catch any drippings and make cleanup a breeze!
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Combine the smoked paprika, Chinese 5 spice, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, garlic granules, and salt in a small bowl. Mix until well blended and set aside, letting those spices mingle.
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Pat dry the pork belly slices with a kitchen paper towel. Using a sharp knife, score the fat in a crosshatch pattern, allowing the seasoning to penetrate the meat beautifully.
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Coat the pork slices evenly with the spice mixture, making sure every inch is covered in flavor. This step is crucial for that savory taste we all crave!
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Arrange the pork belly slices on the prepared baking sheet. Place them in a single layer on their sides, giving each piece enough space to breathe and crispen up perfectly while roasting.
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Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until the slices are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Remember to flip them halfway through for even cooking. Draining the liquid halfway will enhance their texture!
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Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciousness! If you desire extra crispiness, pop them under the broiler for an additional 5 minutes.
Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices
Room Temperature: Allow the pork belly slices to cool completely before leaving them at room temperature for up to 2 hours; otherwise, store them in the fridge.
Fridge: Store any leftover oven baked pork belly slices in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure they’re cool before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pork belly slices in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Lay parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Reheating: To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Enjoy delicious flavors with every bite!
Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices Variations & Substitutions
Get ready to put your own spin on this mouthwatering dish!
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Spicy Twist: Add more cayenne pepper or incorporate diced jalapeños for an extra kick that elevates the flavors. The heat complements the richness of the pork beautifully.
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Herb-Infused: Swap in fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme instead of or alongside garlic granules for a fragrant, earthy undertone. You’ll love the aromatic nuances this brings!
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Maple Glaze: Replace brown sugar with equal parts maple syrup for a sweet caramelized finish, infusing a delightful hint of maple flavor throughout the slices.
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Citrus Zest: Add the zest of an orange or lemon to your spice mix to brighten the dish. The citrus notes add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pork belly.
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Smoky BBQ: Use a BBQ spice rub instead of your original blend for a sweet and tangy flavor. Perfect for those who love a touch of smoky sweetness in their meats!
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Soy Sauce Umami: Blend in a tablespoon of soy sauce for an umami punch that pairs wonderfully with the sweet spices. It adds depth that will have everyone asking for seconds!
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Sweet & Savory Blend: Incorporate crushed pineapple or apple cider vinegar into your spice mix for a unique sweetness that balances with the spices. It gives the dish a delightful twist!
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Crispy Toppings: Top the cooked pork belly slices with crispy fried onions or crushed nuts before serving for an added crunch and textural element. It’s an unexpected delight that elevates your dish.
What to Serve with Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices?
To create a memorable meal experience, pair your tender and crispy pork belly with delightful sides that complement its rich flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture perfectly balances the crispy pork, and their buttery richness will elevate your dining experience.
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Crisp Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch adds a lightness that cuts through the richness of the pork. The tangy dressing beautifully contrasts the smoky flavors.
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Garlic Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans tossed with garlic butter provide a vibrant green addition that enhances both color and flavor on your plate.
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Savory Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These caramelized bites add a deep, nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the seasoned pork while offering a satisfying bite.
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Zesty Citrus Salad: A salad with oranges and a hint of mint offers a bright note that refreshes the palate, making each bite of pork more enjoyable.
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Chilled Cucumber Soup: This light, yogurt-based soup is perfect for warm evenings, letting the rich pork belly shine without overpowering your taste buds.
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Spicy Pineapple Salsa: The sweet and spicy notes of pineapple will add a burst of flavor that complements the savory pork, creating an exciting contrast with every bite.
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Craft Beer or Bold Red Wine: A cold, refreshing beer or a glass of robust red wine enhances the meal, offering a beautiful pairing for the savory, seasoned meat.
Dive into these options to create a delightful spread that your guests will love!
Make Ahead Options
These Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices are a fantastic choice for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the pork belly slices and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Just ensure that the spice mix is generously applied to maintain that mouthwatering taste. If you prefer, you can also fully bake the pork belly slices ahead of time; they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes; this way, they’ll taste just as delicious as when freshly made!
Expert Tips for Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices
• Choose Quality Pork: Opt for thick, high-quality pork belly slices to ensure that every bite is tender, juicy, and packed with flavor.
• Scoring Secret: Always score the fat in a crosshatch pattern; this helps the seasoning penetrate deeply and ensures a crispy texture.
• Even Spacing: Arrange the slices with ample space on the baking sheet for proper air circulation, which is crucial for getting that perfect oven-baked pork belly crispiness.
• Flip Carefully: When flipping the pork halfway through cooking, do so gently to avoid tearing the crispy skin while retaining all those delicious flavors.
• Monitor Closely: Keep an eye on your slices in the last few minutes of baking; ovens vary, and you want optimal crispness without burning!
• Broiler Boost: If the pork belly isn’t as golden as you’d like, try broiling for a few extra minutes, but watch it closely—burns can happen quickly!
Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pork belly for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for thick, high-quality pork belly slices with a good amount of fat. The meat should appear pink and fresh, free from dark spots or any odors. When shopping, try to select slices that are uniform in thickness, providing more even cooking and crispiness.
How do I store leftover pork belly slices?
Very! Allow your leftover oven baked pork belly slices to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Properly stored in the fridge, they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool before sealing to prevent condensation, which can affect their texture.
Can I freeze pork belly slices?
Absolutely! To freeze your oven baked pork belly slices, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, separating each slice with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy them again, just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a preheated oven to regain their crispy texture.
What do I do if the pork belly isn’t crispy enough?
If you find that your pork belly slices aren’t as crispy as you’d like, don’t worry! You can easily pop them under the broiler for an additional 5 minutes—just keep a close eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. Broiling can intensify the crispiness beautifully!
Can I use this recipe for special diets (like gluten-free or low-carb)?
Absolutely! This oven baked pork belly recipe is naturally low-carb and gluten-free, making it a great choice for various dietary needs. Just be sure to check that your spices, particularly brown sugar, are compliant with your specific dietary restrictions, as some brands may add fillers. Enjoy with confidence!
Crispy Oven Baked Pork Belly Slices You’ll Love to Devour
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or baking paper.
- Combine the smoked paprika, Chinese 5 spice, brown sugar, cayenne pepper, garlic granules, and salt in a small bowl.
- Pat dry the pork belly slices with a kitchen paper towel. Score the fat in a crosshatch pattern.
- Coat the pork slices evenly with the spice mixture.
- Arrange the pork belly slices on the baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 40 to 50 minutes until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! Broil for an additional 5 minutes for extra crispiness if desired.