Tender Instant Pot BBQ Ribs Recipe

Hey there! Let’s talk about comfort food with a major wow factor. Instant Pot BBQ Ribs are a game-changer for weeknight dinners, backyard gatherings, or when you’re simply craving some smoky, tender goodness without firing up the grill. This recipe came about during one of those moments when I wanted BBQ ribs—fast, juicy, and bursting with flavor—and the Instant Pot delivered beautifully.

If you think BBQ ribs are only for summer, think again. Now you can enjoy fall-off-the-bone ribs any time of year with minimal effort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s lightning-fast compared to traditional BBQ methods, thanks to the Instant Pot.
• You’ll get fall-off-the-bone tenderness every single time.
• The ingredients are simple—most are pantry staples!
• Perfect for busy nights or impressing guests with a hearty, BBQ-inspired meal.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Baby back ribs: These work best because they cook quickly and are naturally tender. You could also use spare ribs—just add 5-10 minutes to the cook time.
• Dry rub: A mix of brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Feel free to make it your own by adjusting the spice levels.
• BBQ sauce: Pick your favorite! Sweet, smoky, tangy—whatever makes your taste buds happy. I love mixing a little honey into mine for an extra sticky glaze.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a zingy balance and helps tenderize the meat.
• Water: Essential for building that steam in the Instant Pot.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prep the Ribs:** Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This is key to getting that perfect, melt-in-your-mouth texture. (Tip: Use a paper towel to grip it—it slides off like a charm!)
2. **Season to Perfection:** Generously rub the dry seasoning blend all over the ribs. Don’t hold back—it’s where all the flavor starts.
3. **Get the Instant Pot Ready:** Add 1 cup of water and ½ cup of apple cider vinegar to the bottom of the Instant Pot. Place the metal trivet inside.
4. **Place the Ribs:** Curl the seasoned ribs around the inside of the Instant Pot, standing them upright on the trivet.
5. **Cook Time:** Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to Manual (or Pressure Cook) for 25 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick-release the rest.
6. **Brush on the BBQ Love:** Carefully remove the ribs and place them on a baking sheet, lined with foil for easy cleanup. Generously brush your favorite BBQ sauce over both sides of the ribs.
7. **Broil for the Finish:** Pop the ribs under the broiler for 5-7 minutes, watching closely. The goal? A sticky, caramelized finish that’s pure perfection.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:** Slice between the bones, pile them onto a serving platter, and watch them disappear!

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• If you’re short on time, you can skip the broiling step—but trust me, the caramelized finish is worth the few extra minutes!
• For even more flavor, marinate the seasoned ribs for a couple of hours or overnight in the fridge before cooking.
• Switch up the dry rub by adding cayenne for heat or even a pinch of cinnamon for a subtle, smoky sweetness.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• **Spicy Kick:** Add jalapeño slices to the ribs before broiling or mix hot sauce into your BBQ glaze.
• **Sweet & Smoky:** For a sweeter glaze, drizzle a little maple syrup over the ribs just before serving.
• Pair your ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or potato salad. Pro tip: Add roasted veggies or grilled peaches for a fun twist!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Absolutely! White vinegar or even red wine vinegar works well, but apple cider vinegar gives the best balance of tang and sweetness.

Can these ribs be frozen?
Yes! Cook them as directed, but skip the broiling step. Let them cool, then store in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat with fresh BBQ sauce and broil for that caramelized finish.

What’s the best way to reheat BBQ ribs?
Pop them in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until heated through. Brush with a fresh layer of BBQ sauce to keep them moist.

Printable Recipe

Give this recipe a try and let me know how it turns out! Snap a pic and tag me with #TheKitchensAid on social media—I’d love to see your BBQ masterpieces!