Experience the ultimate in tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness with these incredible Instant Pot Ribs! Perfectly seasoned with a homemade BBQ spice rub and cooked to perfection in your pressure cooker, these baby back ribs are a game-changer. A quick finish on the grill or under the broiler adds that irresistible caramelized glaze, elevating them to the status of the best ribs you’ll ever make. Say goodbye to long hours of smoking or grilling; your Instant Pot delivers mouth-watering results every time!
These succulent ribs are the star of any meal, especially when paired with classic comfort sides. For a truly unforgettable summertime feast, I love serving them alongside Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob and my Easiest Instant Pot Baked Beans. The combination of savory ribs, sweet corn, and hearty beans creates a symphony of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why the Instant Pot is Your Secret to Perfect Ribs
If you’ve ever dreamt of ribs that practically melt in your mouth, but dreaded the time and effort involved, the Instant Pot is your culinary hero. This method consistently produces some of the most impressive, fall-off-the-bone ribs you can imagine. Many enthusiasts even argue that pressure-cooked ribs surpass those prepared via traditional smoking or grilling methods in terms of sheer tenderness and moisture retention. The beauty of the Instant Pot lies in its ability to achieve this incredible texture rapidly, making it possible to enjoy gourmet-quality ribs on a weeknight.
The magic happens under high pressure, which drastically cuts down cooking time without compromising on flavor. Our specially crafted homemade BBQ spice rub is a blend of pantry staples that comes together in minutes, infusing the meat with deep, aromatic notes. For an extra layer of authentic outdoor grill flavor, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke to the cooking liquid. This simple addition can transform your kitchen into a backyard BBQ, even on a rainy day!
Essential Ingredients for Irresistible Instant Pot Ribs
Creating truly delicious Instant Pot ribs starts with high-quality ingredients and a thoughtful blend of seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need to achieve that perfect balance of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors:
- Baby Back Ribs: The star of our show! You can use one to two full racks. For easier fitting into your Instant Pot and more even cooking, it’s best to cut each rack into three smaller pieces. Alternatively, you can roll them up if your pot is large enough, but cutting is generally recommended. Baby back ribs are preferred for their leanness and superior tenderness.
- Water: Essential for building pressure inside the Instant Pot. It creates the steam needed to cook the ribs efficiently and ensures a moist cooking environment.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A crucial ingredient for tenderizing the meat. The acidity helps break down tough connective tissues in the ribs, resulting in that coveted fall-off-the-bone texture. It also adds a subtle tang that complements the richness of the pork.
- Apple Juice (Optional but Recommended): This adds a touch of natural sweetness and fruitiness to the cooking liquid, which permeates the ribs during pressure cooking. It enhances the overall flavor profile and contributes to a beautiful caramelized crust later on.
- Brown Sugar: A key component of our spice rub. Brown sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps create a delicious, caramelized crust when the ribs are finished under the broiler or on the grill. Its molasses content provides a deeper, more complex sweetness than white sugar.
- Homemade BBQ Spice Rub: The heart of the flavor! Our blend includes:
- Ground Cinnamon: Adds warmth and a unique depth, a secret ingredient that truly elevates the rub.
- Chili Powder: Provides a mild heat and earthy flavor, foundational to any good BBQ rub.
- Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: Essential aromatics that create a savory base.
- Paprika: Contributes a beautiful red hue and a mild, peppery flavor. Use smoked paprika for an extra layer of smoky goodness.
- Salt & Black Pepper: Fundamental seasonings to enhance all other flavors and bring out the natural taste of the pork.
- Liquid Smoke (Optional): If you desire a more pronounced smoky flavor without a smoker, a small amount of liquid smoke added to the cooking liquid can mimic that authentic BBQ taste. Use sparingly, as a little goes a long way.
- Your Favorite BBQ Sauce: Whether homemade or store-bought, a good BBQ sauce is essential for basting the ribs after pressure cooking, providing a sticky, flavorful glaze. I often use my homemade recipe for the best results.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fall-Off-The-Bone Ribs in Your Instant Pot
Making tender ribs in your Instant Pot is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these steps for perfectly cooked, flavorful ribs every time:
- Prepare the Spice Rub: In a small bowl, whisk together all the ingredients for your homemade BBQ spice rub until well combined. This ensures an even distribution of flavor.
- Prepare the Instant Pot Liquids: In a glass measuring cup or a small bowl, mix the water, apple juice (if using), apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke (if adding for extra smoky flavor). Pour this liquid mixture into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. This liquid is essential for building pressure and infusing the ribs with moisture and flavor.
- Prepare the Ribs: Begin by trimming any significant excess fat from the ribs. Next, and this is a crucial step for truly tender ribs, remove the thin, silverskin-like membrane from the back of each rack. To do this, simply insert a small knife or fork under the membrane at one end to loosen it, then grip it with a paper towel and pull it off the entire rack. It might take a little effort, but it’s worth it for the improved texture. Finally, cut each full rack of ribs into 3 manageable pieces; this makes them easier to fit in the Instant Pot and simplifies handling for the final broiling or grilling step.
- Season the Ribs: Generously rub the prepared spice mix all over the rib pieces, ensuring they are thoroughly coated on all sides. Don’t be shy with the rub!
- Arrange Ribs in the Instant Pot: Place the trivet (the metal rack that usually comes with your Instant Pot) into the inner pot. Arrange the seasoned rib pieces on the trivet, standing them upright in a circle, leaning against each other. This maximizes space and allows for even steam circulation. Refer to the accompanying photo for a visual guide on how to arrange them. Don’t worry, the spice rub will adhere beautifully during cooking.
- Pressure Cook the Ribs: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring it’s properly sealed. Set the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position (some newer models do this automatically). Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the cooking time to 25 minutes on HIGH pressure.
- Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, the Instant Pot will beep. Do not immediately open the valve. Instead, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. This natural pressure release (NPR) is vital for ensuring the ribs remain tender and juicy, preventing them from drying out. After 10 minutes, you can carefully turn the steam release valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure, then open the lid away from your face.
- Finish the Ribs: Carefully remove the incredibly tender ribs from the Instant Pot onto an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet. Brush them generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. For that perfect caramelized crust and sticky glaze, broil them in your oven for a few minutes until the sauce is bubbly and slightly charred, or transfer them to a hot grill and cook for a few minutes per side. If you prefer to skip the sauce, you can use the flavorful cooking liquid from the Instant Pot to baste the ribs during this finishing stage for added moisture and flavor.
Baby Back Ribs vs. Spare Ribs: Choosing Your Cut
When it comes to ribs, the two most popular cuts are baby back ribs and spare ribs, each offering a distinct experience. Baby back ribs are a perennial favorite due to their inherent tenderness and leanness. They come from the area along the backbone, closer to the loin, making them smaller and meatier on top of the bone. This cut cooks relatively quickly and yields incredibly tender results, which is why they are often chosen for Instant Pot recipes. They are typically sweeter and more delicate in flavor.
Spare ribs, on the other hand, are cut from the belly of the pig, closer to the sternum. They are larger, flatter, and contain more fat and connective tissue, which translates to a richer, more robust pork flavor. While spare ribs can be tougher if not cooked properly, the Instant Pot excels at breaking down that connective tissue, transforming them into wonderfully succulent and meaty ribs. The key difference when cooking spare ribs in your Instant Pot is an increased cooking time. Regardless of the cut, always opt for Natural Pressure Release (NPR) to ensure maximum tenderness and juiciness.
Preparing Ribs for Pressure Cooking: A Quick Guide
Proper preparation is key to achieving truly perfect Instant Pot ribs. It’s a simple process that makes a significant difference in the final texture and enjoyment:
- **Remove the Membrane:** This is the most crucial step. The membrane (or silverskin) is a tough, chewy film on the bone-side of the rib rack that, if left on, will prevent the ribs from becoming truly fall-off-the-bone tender. To remove it, slide a butter knife or a small spoon under one end of the membrane to loosen it. Once you have a small flap, grip it firmly with a paper towel (this provides a better grip) and slowly pull it off the entire length of the rack. It might tear, but just keep peeling off pieces until it’s completely gone. Discard the membrane.
- **Trim Excess Fat:** While some fat adds flavor, excessive amounts can make the ribs greasy. Use a sharp knife to trim off any large, thick pockets of fat from the surface of the ribs.
- **Cut the Ribs:** For easier handling and better fit within your Instant Pot, cut each full rack of ribs into 2 or 3 smaller, more manageable pieces. This also makes them easier to serve and to finish under the broiler or on the grill.
- **Apply the Dry Rub:** With the ribs prepped, it’s time to generously apply your homemade dry rub. Ensure all sides are thoroughly coated, gently pressing the spices into the meat. The rub will adhere beautifully during the pressure cooking process.
Instant Pot Ribs Cooking Time Guidelines
The cooking time in your Instant Pot is critical for achieving optimal tenderness. Here are the recommended times:
- **Baby Back Ribs:** For perfectly tender baby back ribs, set your Instant Pot to HIGH pressure for 25 minutes. This will be followed by a mandatory Natural Pressure Release (NPR) of 10 minutes. The NPR allows the meat to relax and reabsorb juices, resulting in a more tender and moist product.
- **Spare Ribs:** Since spare ribs are a tougher and meatier cut, they require a slightly longer cooking time. For spare ribs, set your Instant Pot to HIGH pressure for 35 minutes. Just like with baby back ribs, always follow this with a 10-minute Natural Pressure Release.
Remember that the Instant Pot will take an additional 10-15 minutes to come to pressure before the actual cooking time begins. Always ensure your Instant Pot valve is set to the “Sealing” position for pressure cooking.
What to Serve with These Amazing Instant Pot Ribs
These incredibly tender Instant Pot Ribs deserve a supporting cast of equally delicious side dishes. Of course, plenty of napkins and extra BBQ sauce are always a must! Beyond that, here are some fantastic pairings that complement the rich, savory flavor of the ribs and create a complete, satisfying meal:
- Instant Pot Potato Salad: A creamy, tangy potato salad is a classic BBQ side for a reason. Its cool freshness provides a perfect contrast to the warm, rich ribs. Using the Instant Pot to make the potato salad too means less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal!
- Garlic Parmesan Corn on the Cob: Sweet, juicy corn on the cob, especially when infused with garlic and Parmesan, adds a delightful pop of flavor and texture. It’s another quick and easy Instant Pot side that’s perfect for summer.
- Creamy Coleslaw: The crisp, refreshing crunch of coleslaw provides a wonderful textural contrast and a tangy counterpoint to the savory ribs. Its coolness helps cut through the richness of the meat.
- Easiest Instant Pot Baked Beans: No BBQ meal is complete without a side of hearty baked beans. Our Instant Pot version makes them incredibly simple to prepare, delivering a sweet and savory depth that pairs beautifully with pork.
- Queso Mac and Cheese with Bacon: For the ultimate comfort food experience, a rich and cheesy mac and cheese is an unbeatable choice. The addition of queso and bacon takes it to another level, creating a truly indulgent side.
Choosing a few of these sides ensures a well-rounded and deeply satisfying meal that highlights the incredible flavor of your Instant Pot ribs.
Pro Tips for the Best Instant Pot Ribs
Achieving consistently perfect ribs in your Instant Pot is easy with a few expert tips:
- Don’t Skip the Membrane Removal: We cannot stress this enough. The thin membrane on the back of the ribs is tough and chewy. Removing it is crucial for genuinely tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference.
- Generous Spice Rub: Don’t be shy with the dry rub. Apply it generously to all sides of the ribs, gently pressing it into the meat. This ensures maximum flavor penetration. The rub will stay on during pressure cooking, so no worries about it washing off.
- Use the Trivet: Always place the ribs on the trivet (the metal rack) that comes with your Instant Pot. This keeps the ribs elevated out of the liquid, allowing them to steam effectively and prevent them from boiling, which could make them mushy.
- Arranging Ribs: For best results and to fit more ribs, arrange the cut pieces standing upright in a circle inside the Instant Pot, forming a ring. They can lean against each other.
- Natural Pressure Release (NPR) is Key: After cooking, always allow for a Natural Pressure Release for at least 10 minutes. This slow release of pressure is vital for tender, juicy meat. It prevents the ribs from becoming tough or dry by allowing the muscle fibers to relax and reabsorb moisture.
- The Finishing Touch: Broiling or grilling the ribs after pressure cooking is essential for developing that desirable caramelized crust and sticky BBQ sauce glaze. Don’t skip this step; it transforms good ribs into exceptional ribs.
- Utilize the Leftover Liquid: The liquid remaining in the Instant Pot after cooking is packed with incredible flavor. You can use it as a flavorful broth, or even reduce it on the stovetop to create a rich sauce for basting your ribs or serving on the side.
- Adjusting for Different Rib Types: As mentioned, spare ribs require slightly longer cooking (35 minutes) than baby back ribs (25 minutes). Always adjust your cooking time based on the cut of ribs you are using.
Troubleshooting & FAQs for Instant Pot Ribs
Even with a great recipe, questions can arise. Here are answers to some common queries about making ribs in your Instant Pot:
What if my ribs are not fall-off-the-bone tender?
This is usually due to insufficient cooking time. Ensure you’re using the correct cooking time for your specific rib cut (25 mins for baby back, 35 mins for spare ribs) and that you’re allowing for the full 10-minute Natural Pressure Release. If they’re still not tender enough, you can always pressure cook them again for another 5-10 minutes with a quick release. Also, double-check that the membrane was fully removed.
Why do you recommend Natural Pressure Release (NPR) for ribs?
NPR is crucial for tender meats like ribs. A quick release (QR) can cause meat to seize up and become tough because of the sudden change in pressure and temperature. NPR allows the internal temperature to drop gradually, letting the meat relax and reabsorb its juices, resulting in a more succulent and tender final product.
Can I stack multiple racks of ribs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook multiple racks of ribs as long as they fit below the max fill line of your Instant Pot. The cooking time for pressure cooking remains the same, as pressure cookers cook by pressure, not by volume. Just ensure there’s enough liquid at the bottom. Cutting the racks into smaller portions helps immensely with fitting them in.
I got the “BURN” message, what now?
The “BURN” message indicates that the Instant Pot detected scorching on the bottom of the inner pot. This often happens when there isn’t enough liquid, or if thick sauces or spices are directly touching the bottom. Make sure to always have at least 1 cup of thin liquid (water, juice, vinegar) in the pot and ensure no dry rub or thick sauce is stuck to the bottom before sealing. If you get the message, turn off the Instant Pot, let it cool slightly, scrape the bottom, add more liquid, and restart. For a comprehensive guide, check out my Instant Pot Burn Message post.
Can I make these ribs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can pressure cook the ribs, allow them to cool, and then refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply brush with BBQ sauce and finish them under the broiler or on the grill until heated through and caramelized. This makes them perfect for entertaining or meal prep.
What type of BBQ sauce is best?
The best BBQ sauce is truly a matter of personal preference! Whether you prefer a sweet and tangy Kansas City style, a spicy Texas variety, a vinegar-based North Carolina sauce, or a mustard-based South Carolina sauce, choose what you love. My homemade BBQ sauce is a versatile and delicious option that I highly recommend.
Explore More Instant Pot Recipes:
The Instant Pot is a versatile kitchen appliance that can simplify countless meals. If you enjoyed these ribs, you might love these other easy and delicious Instant Pot recipes:
- Fluffy Instant Pot Baked Potatoes Recipe
- Best Ever Instant Pot Pulled Pork
- Flavorful Instant Pot Chicken Thighs
- Easy & Quick Instant Pot Chicken Breast
New to pressure cooking? To learn more about the Instant Pot and unlock its full potential, check out my comprehensive Guide for Beginners. If you’ve ever encountered the dreaded “burn” message while using your Instant Pot, don’t worry! My dedicated Instant Pot Burn Message post provides invaluable tips on how to fix the issue and prevent it from happening in the first place, ensuring a smooth and stress-free cooking experience every time.
If you try this recipe and love it, please let me know in the comments below! Your feedback is incredibly valuable, and don’t forget to rate it if you enjoyed it!
Instant Pot Ribs
These Instant Pot Ribs are the most tender and fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs, rubbed in spices and cooked in your pressure cooker. Finish them off on the grill or under the broiler for the best ribs ever!
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars (based on 9 votes)
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Natural Pressure Release: 10 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 116 kcal
Ingredients
for the ribs:
- 1 rack baby back ribs
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup apple juice
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke (optional)
spice rub:
- 3 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 ½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¾ teaspoon black pepper
- ¾ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs: remove the membrane from the back of the rack (a thin film) by inserting a fork or knife underneath it and loosening it up, then pull the membrane off and discard. Trim off any excess fat from the ends of the rack. Cut the ribs rack into 3 equal pieces.1 rack baby back ribs
- In a small bowl, combine all spice rub ingredients. Generously cover ribs with the spice mix and rub it in.3 tablespoons packed brown sugar, ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon, 2 ½ teaspoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon salt, ¾ teaspoon black pepper, ¾ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika
- Make sure the stainless steel insert is in your Instant Pot.
- Pour water, juice, vinegar, and liquid smoke (if using) into the insert and stir.½ cup water, ½ cup apple juice, ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ½ teaspoon liquid smoke
- Place trivet in the Instant Pot.
- Arrange ribs on the insert, standing up. The spice rub will stay on during cooking.
- Close the lid and set the valve to the sealing position (newer models do it on their own).
- Make sure the Instant Pot is set to cook on HIGH pressure. Press the “Manual/Pressure Cook” button and set the timer to 25 minutes.
- The Instant Pot will beep and start coming to pressure (this takes about 10 minutes).
- Once the timer is done, press “Cancel/Off” and let the Instant Pot release pressure naturally (do not switch the valve!). Set your kitchen timer to 10 minutes. Once the pressure pin is down, carefully open the lid away from your face.
- Remove ribs onto a sheet pan. Brush with your favorite BBQ sauce and broil OR throw them on the grill to caramelize the sauce. You can also skip the sauce and use leftover liquid from the Instant Pot to baste the ribs.
Notes
- The spice rub adheres to the ribs during pressure cooking. Ensure you cover the ribs generously, focusing on the meaty side.
- You can use the leftover cooking liquid to baste the ribs before broiling or grilling, adding an extra layer of flavor.
- Please note that the nutrition value can vary depending on the specific products you use. The information below is an estimate. Always use a calorie counter you are familiar with for precise tracking.
Nutrition
Calories: 116 kcal | Carbohydrates: 14g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 626mg | Potassium: 138mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 12g | Vitamin A: 615IU | Vitamin C: 0.2mg | Calcium: 15mg | Iron: 0.6mg
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