Succulent Instant Pot Ribs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Instant Pot ribs are a quick and flavorful alternative to slow-cooked barbecue. This recipe delivers tender, juicy ribs with minimal effort, perfect for a weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 pounds pork ribs
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon your favorite rib spice blend
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the ribs evenly with the rib spice blend, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Step 2: Place the ribs standing upright in the Instant Pot with 1 cup of water or broth to create steam.
- Step 3: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes, then allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.
- Step 4: Remove ribs carefully, brush generously with barbecue sauce, and serve immediately. Optionally, you can broil the sauced ribs for 3 to 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar to the cooking liquid for a tangy undertone.
- For extra smoky flavor, use a smoked paprika-based spice blend.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the barbecue sauce on the stove for a few minutes before brushing it on the ribs.
- Use baby back ribs or spare ribs depending on your preference; adjust cooking time slightly for larger racks.
Storage
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, brushing with additional barbecue sauce to keep them moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen ribs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen ribs, but increase the cooking time by about 10 minutes to ensure they become tender.
Do I need to sear the ribs before cooking in the Instant Pot?
Searing is optional but can add extra flavor and color. If using the broil step after cooking, searing beforehand is usually unnecessary.
PrintSucculent Instant Pot Ribs with Barbecue Sauce Recipe
This Instant Pot Ribs recipe delivers tender, flavorful pork ribs cooked quickly under pressure, then brushed with smoky barbecue sauce for a perfect finish. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you want fall-off-the-bone ribs without hours of slow cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ribs
- 2 to 3 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for better seasoning absorption and tenderness. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
- Season the Ribs: Combine salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
- Cook in Instant Pot: Place the ribs into the Instant Pot, coil or cut to fit if necessary. Add 1 cup of water or broth to the pot. Close and seal the lid, then cook on high pressure for 25 to 30 minutes depending on rib thickness, followed by a natural pressure release for 10 minutes.
- Apply Barbecue Sauce: Carefully remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and place on a baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with barbecue sauce.
- Serve: Serve ribs immediately as is, or for a caramelized finish, you can broil the sauced ribs in the oven for 3-5 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred. Enjoy with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Removing the membrane from ribs improves texture and flavor penetration.
- Cooking time may vary based on rib size and cut — adjust accordingly.
- For extra smoky flavor, add liquid smoke to the barbecue sauce.
- If you prefer crispier ribs, finish under the broiler after pressure cooking.
- Leftover ribs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Keywords: Instant Pot ribs, pressure cooker ribs, barbecue ribs, quick ribs recipe
