Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs in Instant Pot, each bite bursting with a smoky, sweet glaze that dances on your taste buds. The rich aroma wafts through the kitchen, teasing your senses and making your mouth water as you anticipate that first delicious taste, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends.
Reflecting on my own rib-loving adventures, I recall those chaotic family barbecues where the grill was always overcrowded, and the wait felt eternal. Now, with ribs in Instant Pot, I can whip up this beloved dish in no time, creating new memories without sacrificing flavor or fun. Whether it’s a casual Tuesday night or an impromptu feast with friends, these ribs promise to impress and delight everyone at the table.
Why Does Everyone Love ribs in instant pot?
Tender, juicy ribs are just a push of a button away! Cooking them in the Instant Pot means they’re ready in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor-packed dry rub infuses every bite with deliciousness, while the option to customize with your favorite barbecue sauce adds versatility. Crowd-pleasing and easy to share, these ribs are sure to impress family and friends alike!
ribs in instant pot Ingredients
For the Ribs
- 2 pounds pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs) – Choose your favorite type for tender, juicy results in the Instant Pot.
For the Dry Rub
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar – Adds a hint of sweetness that balances the savory spices.
- 1 tablespoon paprika – Provides a beautiful color and smoky flavor to your ribs.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor profile with a robust garlic taste.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Contributes a subtle sweetness and depth to the dry rub.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Essential for bringing out all the wonderful flavors in your dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Offers a mild heat that complements the other spices beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) – Add this if you like a little kick in your ribs in instant pot!
For the Liquid
- 1 cup water – Creates steam to help cook the ribs evenly and quickly.
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving) – Use your favorite brand for deliciously sticky, flavorful ribs at dinner time.
How to Make ribs in instant pot
1. Remove the membrane: Start by carefully removing the tough membrane from the back of your 2 pounds of pork ribs. If they’re too long for the Instant Pot, cut them into sections.
2. Apply the dry rub: In a small bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and optional 1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Generously rub this spice mix all over the ribs for a flavorful kick.
3. Add water and trivet: Pour 1 cup of water into the Instant Pot and place a trivet inside. Arrange the seasoned ribs on top of the trivet, standing them up if needed. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
4. Cook on high pressure: Set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Once completed, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before using quick release for any remaining pressure.
5. Glaze with barbecue sauce: Carefully remove the ribs from the pot and brush them with 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce. For an extra touch, broil them for 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce until it’s bubbly and slightly charred.
6. Serve up: Slice between the bones to portion out your tender ribs and serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
Optional: Garnish with chopped fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips
- Membrane Removal: Make sure to remove the silver skin from the ribs. This tough layer can prevent seasonings from penetrating, resulting in less flavor.
- Dry Rub Evenness: Ensure you apply the dry rub evenly across the ribs. This maximizes flavor and avoids any bland spots when cooking ribs in instant pot.
- Trivet Placement: Use a trivet to elevate the ribs above the water. This helps them steam properly and avoid boiling, which can lead to rubbery meat.
- Natural Release: Allow for a natural pressure release for at least 10 minutes post-cooking. Rushing this step can cause tougher ribs due to rapid temperature changes.
- Broiling for Finish: If you decide to broil the glazed ribs, keep a close eye on them. The sugars in barbecue sauce can burn quickly if left unattended.
How to Store and Freeze ribs in instant pot
- Room Temperature: Allow the ribs to cool for no more than 2 hours before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
- Fridge: Store cooked ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add extra barbecue sauce to keep them moist.
- Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat the ribs in the Instant Pot on low pressure with a splash of water for about 5 minutes, or warm them gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
ribs in instant pot Your Way
Feel free to get creative and personalize this recipe for a delicious, mouthwatering experience the whole family will love!
- Sweet & Spicy: Add 1 tablespoon of hot honey to the dry rub for a delightful kick. This combination balances sweetness and heat beautifully, making each bite unforgettable.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in 1 tablespoon of dried rosemary or thyme with your dry rub for an aromatic twist. These herbs introduce a fresh flavor that elevates the traditional taste of ribs.
- Smoky Flavor: Substitute smoked paprika for regular paprika to add depth and richness. The smoky notes create a barbecue experience reminiscent of summer cookouts, even in winter.
- Low-Sodium: Use low-sodium salt or omit it entirely in the dry rub for a healthier version. Your ribs will still be packed with flavor without the extra sodium, making them heart-friendly.
- Tangy Twist: Replace half of the barbecue sauce with apple cider vinegar for a zesty finish. This adds a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the ribs beautifully.
- Citrus Burst: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of orange zest into the dry rub for a refreshing citrus note. The zesty flavor brings a surprising brightness that complements the savory elements perfectly.
- Extra Crispy: After cooking, broil the ribs in the oven for 3–5 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior. This final touch offers wonderful texture contrast between tender meat and crispy edges.
- Heat Lovers: Increase cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon or add sliced jalapeños during cooking for an added spicy kick. Turn up the heat to satisfy those who crave bold flavors!
Make Ahead Options
This recipe for ribs in instant pot is not only quick and delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the dry rub with its delightful blend of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in your pantry. Additionally, you can remove the membrane from the ribs and cut them into sections 24 hours ahead of cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy this tender goodness, simply rub the mix onto the ribs, add 1 cup of water to the Instant Pot with a trivet inside, set everything up for cooking on high pressure for 30 minutes, and then finish by glazing with barbecue sauce. If you want that extra caramelized touch, a quick broil for 5 minutes before serving will elevate your dish beautifully!
ribs in instant pot Recipe FAQs
What type of ribs should I use for this recipe?
You can use either baby back ribs or spare ribs for this recipe. Baby back ribs are typically more tender and leaner, while spare ribs have a bit more fat and meat. Both will turn out delicious when cooked in the Instant Pot!
Can I make my own barbecue sauce instead of using store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade barbecue sauce can add a personal touch to your ribs. You can create a simple sauce by mixing ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and your favorite spices. Just make sure to use about 1/2 cup for glazing and save some for serving.
How should I store leftover ribs?
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For best results, separate the meat from the bones before storing to maintain freshness.
Can I freeze the cooked ribs?
Yes, you can freeze cooked ribs! Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.
What if my Instant Pot doesn’t seal properly?
If your Instant Pot isn’t sealing properly, check that the rubber seal is properly placed on the lid. Make sure the vent is set to “sealing” before starting cooking. If it still doesn’t seal, you may need to adjust your ingredients or try adding more liquid as steam is essential for pressure cooking.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe serves about 4 people, with each serving containing approximately 350 calories. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, consider doubling the recipe; just make sure your Instant Pot can accommodate the extra ribs!
Ribs in Instant Pot
Ingredients
Method
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs and cut them into sections if necessary to fit in the Instant Pot.
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture all over the ribs.
- Add water to the Instant Pot and place a trivet inside. Arrange the ribs on the trivet, standing them up if necessary. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Once done, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
- Remove the ribs and brush them with barbecue sauce. Optionally, place them under a broiler for 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Slice the ribs between the bones and serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side.
