Fall-Off-The-Bone Instant Pot Ribs: Tender, Smokey & Delicious Baby Back Pork Ribs
Prepare for an explosion of flavor with these incredible Instant Pot Ribs! In just 24 minutes of pressure cooking, you’ll transform a slab of baby back pork ribs into an unbelievably tender, smoky, and finger-licking delight that practically melts in your mouth. Forget spending hours slaving over a smoker or grill; your Instant Pot delivers perfectly cooked ribs every time, making it easier than ever to enjoy this classic comfort food. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or looking to impress guests, these pressure cooker ribs are guaranteed to be a hit. Get ready for juicy, succulent pork that effortlessly falls off the bone!
Why This Instant Pot Ribs Recipe is a Game Changer
This Instant Pot Ribs recipe stands out for its simplicity and the truly extraordinary results it delivers. We start with high-quality baby back ribs, which are generously coated in a meticulously crafted wet rub. This rub isn’t just a seasoning; it’s a flavor powerhouse featuring smoked paprika for that authentic BBQ aroma, garlic and onion powder for depth, a hint of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick, and brown sugar for a perfect balance of sweetness and caramelization. The secret ingredient? A touch of liquid smoke, which infuses the ribs with a deep, wood-fired flavor as if they’d spent hours in a traditional smoker.
The real magic happens when these perfectly seasoned ribs enter the pressure cooker. The Instant Pot’s high-pressure environment works wonders, breaking down tough connective tissues in record time, resulting in ribs that are incredibly tender and moist. Unlike conventional cooking methods that can dry out ribs, the Instant Pot locks in moisture and flavor, ensuring every bite is succulent. Once cooked to fall-apart perfection, a quick smothering in your favorite barbecue sauce completes the experience, adding a final layer of tangy, sweet, or spicy goodness. While we’ve previously shared recipes for Instant Pot Beef Ribs and Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs, today we celebrate the undeniable deliciousness of pork baby back ribs – a true favorite alongside bacon!
Key Ingredients for Perfect Pressure Cooker Ribs
You’ll find all precise measurements, ingredients, and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card located at the end of this post. But first, let’s dive into some specifics about the components that make these Instant Pot Ribs truly spectacular.
Ingredient Spotlight & Smart Substitutions
PORK: For this recipe, we specifically use pork baby back ribs, also commonly known as pork back ribs. These ribs are known for being lean, tender, and quick-cooking, making them ideal for the Instant Pot. It’s crucial to note that if you opt for a different cut of ribs, such as spareribs or St. Louis style, the cooking time will likely vary significantly from what’s provided here. Spareribs, for instance, are meatier and typically require a longer cooking duration. Always ensure the membrane is removed from the back of the ribs; if your butcher hasn’t already done this, simply slide a knife under one edge and pull it off. This step is vital for maximum tenderness and allows the rub to penetrate deeply.
WET RUB: Our flavor-packed wet rub is a symphony of spices. Smoked paprika is non-negotiable for that authentic BBQ flavor, while garlic powder and onion powder add foundational savory notes. Cayenne pepper provides a gentle warmth, which you can adjust to your heat preference, or even omit for a milder profile. Brown sugar is key for balance, offering sweetness and aiding in the caramelization process, especially if you finish the ribs under a broiler. The liquid smoke is a game-changer; it imparts a deep, smoky essence that truly makes these ribs taste like they came off a smoker. While you can omit it if it’s unavailable, we highly recommend seeking it out as it elevates the flavor profile immensely and is entirely worth the effort!
COOKING LIQUID: We use a combination of apple cider vinegar and water. The apple cider vinegar isn’t just for flavor; its acidity plays a vital role in tenderizing the meat as it pressure cooks, contributing to that desired fall-off-the-bone texture. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar on hand, plain water will work, but you’ll miss out on some of that tenderizing effect and tangy complexity. You could also experiment with beer or chicken broth for different flavor nuances.
BARBECUE SAUCE: The choice of barbecue sauce is entirely up to your personal preference! Whether you prefer a sweet and sticky sauce, a tangy and vinegary one, or something with a spicy kick, slathering it on after cooking adds a perfect finishing touch. You can even make your own homemade BBQ sauce for an extra special meal.
How to Make Tender Instant Pot Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
These step-by-step photos and detailed instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this delicious recipe. For a convenient printable version, complete with precise measurements and instructions, simply jump to the recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- **Prepare the Ribs:** Start by thoroughly rinsing your slab of baby back ribs under cold running water. This ensures cleanliness and prepares the surface for seasoning. Pat the ribs completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps the rub adhere better, forming a flavorful crust. If the thin membrane on the back of the ribs is still intact, carefully remove it for optimal tenderness. You can usually do this by sliding a knife under an edge and pulling it off with a paper towel for grip.
- **Create the Dry Rub:** In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine all your dry rub ingredients: smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, and brown sugar. Whisk them together until they are evenly distributed. This ensures every part of the rib gets a balanced burst of flavor.
- **Form the Wet Rub:** To the dry rub mixture, add the liquid smoke and olive oil. Mix well until a thick, paste-like wet rub forms. This wet consistency will help the flavors penetrate the meat more effectively and keep the ribs moist during cooking.
- **Apply the Rub:** Don your kitchen gloves for this step! Use your gloved hands to generously rub the mixture over all surfaces of the rib slab, ensuring both the top and bottom are thoroughly coated. Massage the rub into the meat, getting into all the crevices. This thorough application is key to building deep flavor.
- **Prepare the Instant Pot:** Pour the apple cider vinegar and water into the inner pot of your Instant Pot. Place the metal trivet (or a steamer rack) inside the pot. This keeps the ribs elevated out of the liquid, allowing them to steam pressure cook perfectly without boiling.
- **Load the Ribs:** Carefully place the entire rack of seasoned ribs onto the trivet in the Instant Pot. Depending on the size of your ribs and Instant Pot, you may need to curve the slab into a circle to make it fit. Don’t worry, they will still cook beautifully.
- **Pressure Cook:** Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, making sure the sealing valve is set to the ‘Sealing’ position. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and set the cooking time to 24 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release. This means letting the pressure release on its own, which can take 10-15 minutes. A natural release helps to keep the meat incredibly tender and prevents it from drying out.
- **Finish and Serve:** Once the pressure has fully released and the float valve has dropped, carefully open the lid. The ribs will be extremely tender, so use tongs or a sturdy spatula to gently lift them out. Transfer them to a cutting board. At this point, you can slather them with your favorite barbecue sauce. For an extra touch, you can place them under a broiler for a few minutes to caramelize the sauce and achieve slightly crispy edges. Finally, cut the rack into individual portions between the bones.
EXPERT TIP – When cutting the ribs into portions, always use the sharpest knife you have. The meat will be exceptionally tender, and a sharp knife will glide through cleanly, making it easier to separate portions without the meat falling off the bones prematurely.
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Ribs
To maintain their deliciousness, store any leftover baby back ribs in an airtight container. Keep them refrigerated, and they will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. This ensures they’re ready for a quick and easy meal later in the week.
Reheating ribs can be tricky, as you want to avoid drying out that precious, tender meat. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 250-275°F (120-135°C). Place the leftover ribs in a baking dish, and importantly, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This traps moisture and gently warms the ribs through. Warm them in the oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. For an extra burst of flavor and moisture, feel free to brush on additional barbecue sauce before reheating!
Absolutely! While the Instant Pot makes them incredibly tender, it doesn’t create that crispy bark often associated with traditional BBQ. After pressure cooking, transfer the sauced ribs to a baking sheet. Place them under a preheated broiler for 3-5 minutes, keeping a very close eye on them to prevent burning. This step will caramelize the barbecue sauce and give you those desirable slightly crispy edges. Alternatively, you can grill them over medium-high heat for 5-10 minutes, flipping occasionally, for a charred finish.
Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your Instant Pot Ribs
These flavorful Instant Pot Ribs are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a variety of classic side dishes to create a complete and satisfying spread. Consider serving them alongside a creamy coleslaw, sweet corn on the cob, fluffy baked potatoes, rich and cheesy mac and cheese, savory cornbread, or hearty baked beans. And don’t forget to have plenty of napkins handy – because these finger-licking ribs are meant to be enjoyed messy!
Explore More Delicious Rib and Pork Recipes
- Rib Tips
- Oven Beef Ribs
- Sirloin Pork Roast
- Instant Pot Pulled Pork
- Country Style Ribs
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Instant Pot Ribs
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 3 pound slab of pork baby back ribs
- 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 Tablespoon onion powder
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 teaspoons pepper
- ½ Tablespoon cayenne pepper
- ½ Tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons liquid smoke
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- barbecue sauce of your choice for topping
Things You’ll Need
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Instant Pot
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Vinyl gloves
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Tongs
Before You Begin
- Be careful when removing the ribs from the Instant Pot as they will be very tender and can easily fall apart. Use sturdy tongs or two large spatulas for support.
- When cutting the ribs into portions, use the sharpest knife you have. A sharp knife will make it easier to cut through the incredibly tender meat without tearing it or accidentally knocking the meat off the bones.
- Store leftover baby back ribs in an airtight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
- For an extra layer of flavor and a slightly crispy, caramelized finish, consider broiling the sauced ribs for 3-5 minutes after pressure cooking. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
Instructions
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Rinse ribs and pat dry with paper towels. Ensure the membrane on the back is removed for best results.
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In a medium bowl, combine all dry ingredients for the rub (smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, cayenne pepper, brown sugar).
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Add liquid smoke and olive oil to the dry ingredients to form a wet rub. Mix until a thick paste forms.
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Use gloved hands to generously rub the mixture on all areas, top and bottom, of the rib slab.
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Pour apple cider vinegar and water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet/rack in position.
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Carefully place the entire rack of seasoned ribs onto the trivet in the Instant Pot, curving them to fit the pot’s shape.
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Place the lid on the pot, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and cook on high pressure for 24 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release.
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Carefully remove the tender ribs from the Instant Pot. Slather on barbecue sauce of your choice and cut into individual portions. For extra caramelization, broil for a few minutes.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.
This post was originally published here on September 7, 2022.