Succulent 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
Scale
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
