Caribbean-Inspired Baked Jerk Pork with Pineapple Salsa

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender baked pork shoulder infused with spicy jerk seasoning, served with a bright, fresh pineapple salsa that balances heat and sweetness. This caribbean-inspired pork (gluten free) ready in about 55 minutes blends pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes, jerk seasoning, olive oil into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Serves 6 Caribbean cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Toss 2 lbs 1-inch cubed pork shoulder with 3 tbsp jerk seasoning and 2 tbsp olive oil until evenly coated. Spread pork cubes on a rimmed baking sheet in a single layer.
  2. Step 2: Bake pork for 40-45 minutes, turning halfway through, until the pork is cooked through and edges are slightly charred.
  3. Step 3: While pork cooks, combine 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, 1/2 cup finely diced red bell pepper, 1/4 cup finely diced red onion, 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, and 2 tbsp lime juice in a bowl. Season with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Stir gently to combine and let sit to meld flavors.
  4. Step 4: Serve the baked jerk pork hot, topped with a generous spoonful of the pineapple salsa for a bright contrast.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Caribbean-Inspired Baked Jerk Pork with Pineapple Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 55 minutes (10 min prep + 45 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Caribbean-Inspired Baked Jerk Pork with Pineapple Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Caribbean-Inspired Baked Jerk Pork with Pineapple Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Caribbean-Inspired Baked Jerk Pork with Pineapple Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

Is Caribbean-Inspired Baked Jerk Pork with Pineapple Salsa gluten free?

Yes — this recipe is tagged gluten free based on its ingredient list. Always cross-check labels for packaged ingredients (sauces, broths, condiments) since formulations vary by brand.

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