Get ready to sink your teeth into some seriously satisfying comfort food with these 18 flavorful neckbone recipes! Whether you’re a Southern traditionalist or a global gourmet, there’s something on this list for everyone. From hearty stews and soups to rich braises and skillet dinners, we’ve got you covered.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of neckbones – that often-overlooked but incredibly versatile cut of meat – and show you how it can be transformed into a wide range of mouthwatering dishes. From classic gumbo and jambalaya to international curries and pho, we’ve got a recipe for every occasion. So grab your apron, fire up the stove, and get ready to explore the incredible world of neckbone cuisine!
Slow-Cooked Southern Neckbone Stew
A hearty, comforting stew that’s perfect for a cold winter’s day. This recipe is a staple of Southern cuisine, featuring tender neckbones and vegetables slow-cooked in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef neckbones
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, brown the neckbones over medium-high heat. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add the cooked vegetables, diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir in the browned neckbones and beef broth.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Smoky BBQ Neckbones with Collard Greens
Satisfy your cravings with this mouth-watering dish that combines the tender flavor of pork neck bones with the nutty goodness of collard greens.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork neck bones
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups collard greens, stems removed and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and vinegar.
3. Place neck bones in a shallow baking dish; brush with oil. Sprinkle the sugar mixture evenly over the neck bones.
4. Bake for 30 minutes. Increase temperature to 400°F (200°C) and continue cooking for an additional 20-25 minutes or until browned.
5. In a large skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic in vegetable oil until softened.
6. Add collard greens to the skillet; cook until wilted.
7. Serve Smoky BBQ Neckbones with Collard Greens hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spicy Neckbone and Bean Soup
This hearty soup is a Southern staple, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. The spicy kick from the jalapeños adds a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef neckbones
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the neckbones over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced bell pepper, and sliced jalapeños. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the kidney beans, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then transfer it to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Braised Neckbones in Rich Gravy
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening, these slow-cooked neckbones are smothered in a rich, savory gravy that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 pork neckbones
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season neckbones with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown neckbones on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
6. Return neckbones to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falling off the bone.
8. Serve with rich gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Neckbone and Potato Hash
A classic Southern comfort food, Neckbone and Potato Hash is a satisfying and filling meal that’s perfect for any time of day. This recipe combines crispy fried neckbones with fluffy mashed potatoes and savory onions for a truly comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound neckbones
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large pot, boil the neckbones for 30 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pot, boil the diced potatoes for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain and mash with a fork.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked neckbones to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions.
6. Serve the Neckbone and Potato Hash hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Classic Neckbone Gumbo
This hearty soup is a staple of Southern cuisine, made with tender pork neckbones and a rich, flavorful broth. A warm and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds pork neckbones
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons filé powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine neckbones, onion, celery, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Brown the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Add rice, chicken broth, and filé powder (if using). Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 1 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Neckbone and Lentil Curry
This flavorful curry combines tender neckbones with nutritious lentils, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With aromatic spices and a rich tomato-based sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef neckbones
– 1 cup red or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, neckbones, lentils, cumin, curry powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes and 2 cups water.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 45-50 minutes or until the meat is tender and the lentils are cooked.
6. Serve hot over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Garlic Butter Neckbones with Herbs
Elevate your comfort food game with these tender and flavorful Garlic Butter Neckbones, infused with fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds neck bones (or pork ribs)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse neck bones under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, butter, parsley, and thyme.
4. Place the neck bones in a large baking dish and brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over both sides of the meat.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Neckbone and Cabbage Stir-Fry
A hearty and flavorful stir-fry that combines tender neckbone with crunchy cabbage, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef neckbone, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups chopped cabbage (white or green)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the neckbone strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cabbage to the pan and stir-fry until it starts to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Return the neckbone strips to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
6. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the flavors have melded together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Neckbone Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
A savory twist on traditional ramen, this recipe combines rich pork neckbones with a soft-boiled egg and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork neckbones
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sliced scallions, for garnish
– 8 oz ramen noodles
– 4 soft-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine neckbones, chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, sugar, and ginger.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until meat is tender.
3. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. To assemble the bowls, place some noodles in each bowl, then add a few pieces of pork neckbone.
5. Place a soft-boiled egg on top of the meat, followed by sliced scallions.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Neckbone and Black-Eyed Peas Stew
This hearty stew is a Southern classic, packed with tender neckbones and creamy black-eyed peas. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef neckbones
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup dried black-eyed peas, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the neckbones in oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and cumin; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Add soaked black-eyed peas, water, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and beans are creamy.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Neckbone Tacos with Fresh Salsa
This recipe is a twist on traditional tacos, using neckbones as the protein source and topped with fresh salsa for added flavor and texture. Perfect for a unique dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef neckbones
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh salsa (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, cilantro
Fresh Salsa Recipe:
– 1 cup diced fresh tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season neckbones with taco seasoning and bake for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Assemble tacos by placing cooked neckbone on a tortilla, topping with salsa, and adding optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Neckbone and Okra Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish, Neckbone and Okra Skillet is a Southern classic that’s perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year. This recipe is a great way to use up neckbones and okra, resulting in a rich and savory dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork neckbones
– 2 cups okra, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the neckbones and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced okra and paprika to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the okra is tender.
5. Return the neckbones to the skillet and add the chicken broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Neckbone Pho with Rice Noodles
Warm up with a comforting bowl of pho made with rich beef neckbones and tender rice noodles. This hearty soup is flavored with aromatic spices and herbs, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef neckbones
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 8 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup rice noodles
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, cinnamon, cumin, and cardamom. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add neckbones, broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or overnight.
4. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Season pho with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Neckbone and Cornbread Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the rich flavor of neckbones with the comforting warmth of cornbread, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork neckbones
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook neckbones in a little oil until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
4. In a separate bowl, mix cornbread mix with milk.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Add cooked neckbones, followed by the cornbread mixture.
6. Top with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cornbread is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Neckbone and Tomato Basil Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavor of neckbones with the brightness of fresh tomatoes and basil, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of al dente noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 cups neckbone meat (cooked and shredded), 1 cup tomato sauce
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add neckbone meat, tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and basil. Simmer for 5-7 minutes or until flavors combine.
4. Combine cooked pasta and sauce mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Neckbone and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines tender neckbones with earthy mushrooms, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound neckbones, cleaned and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, brown neckbones in olive oil over medium-high heat. Remove from pot; set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown.
5. Add Arborio rice; cook 1-2 minutes.
6. If using wine, add it to the pot; cook until absorbed.
7. Gradually add broth, stirring continuously; cook for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
8. Return neckbones to pot; simmer for 5 minutes.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 40-45 minutes
Neckbone and Sweet Potato Chili
This hearty chili recipe combines tender neckbones with sweet potatoes, onions, and spices for a comforting and flavorful meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef neckbones
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the neckbones over medium-high heat.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and chili powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Simmer for 2-3 hours or until the neckbones are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to sink your teeth into a world of comfort food with these 18 flavorful neckbone recipes! From classic gumbo and ramen to tacos and casserole, we’ve got you covered. Try slow-cooked stew with tender neckbones, smoky BBQ neckbones with collard greens, or spicy soup with beans. Or go bold with garlic butter neckbones with herbs or braised neckbones in rich gravy. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty hash or a warm and cozy casserole, we’ve got 18 mouthwatering options to spice up your mealtime routine.
