I’m so excited to share this Instant Pot BBQ Ribs recipe with you all. I’ve been making this dish for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. The combination of tender meat, tangy BBQ sauce, and the ease of cooking it all in one pot is just perfect.
My kids love helping me in the kitchen, and this recipe is one of their favorites to assist with. They get to learn about measurements and mixing, while I get to enjoy the fruits of their labor when we sit down to eat together as a family. We’ve had this recipe on repeat for every family gathering, holiday, and even just a regular Tuesday dinner.
It’s that good! The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for a beginner cook like me.
Just throw all the ingredients into the Instant Pot, set the timer, and voila! You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. I love how versatile this recipe is too – it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion like a birthday party or holiday feast.
My friends and family always rave about the flavors and texture of these ribs, and I’m happy to share my secrets with you today.
Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
4.6 from 917 votes
Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs made quickly in the Instant Pot, then finished with a smoky-sweet barbecue glaze under the broiler. This recipe delivers deep flavor in a fraction of the time of traditional methods.
1Remove the thin membrane from the back of each rib rack by sliding a knife under it and peeling it off.
2Pat the ribs dry with paper towels, then in a small bowl mix the brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
3Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
4Pour the apple cider vinegar and water into the Instant Pot and place the trivet or steamer basket inside.
5Stand the ribs upright on their edges, curling them around the pot if needed to fit, with the meaty side facing the center.
6Secure the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
7While the ribs cook, preheat your oven broiler to high and line a baking sheet with foil.
8In a small bowl, stir together the barbecue sauce, honey, and apple cider vinegar for the glaze.
9When the Instant Pot timer ends, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully turn the valve to quick release any remaining steam.
10Open the lid and use tongs to transfer the ribs to the prepared baking sheet, placing them meaty side up.
11The ribs should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
12Brush the top of each rack generously with the barbecue glaze, then place under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the glaze is bubbly and charred in spots.
13Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice between the bones and serve with extra glaze on the side.
For extra smoky flavor, add 1 teaspoon liquid smoke to the cooking liquid. If you prefer a thicker glaze, simmer the sauce mixture in a small saucepan for 5 minutes before brushing.
Watch Video Of How Instant Pot BBQ Ribs Works
These Instant Pot BBQ ribs are always a good idea for any occasion because they deliver that deep, smoky flavor and tender texture everyone loves, but in a fraction of the time. I serve them at family gatherings, potlucks, and even casual Sunday dinners, and they always disappear fast.
For storage, keep leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, wrap them in foil and warm in a 300°F oven for about 15 minutes, or use the microwave in short bursts.
You can also shred the leftover meat and use it in tacos, sandwiches, or salads for a quick meal the next day. This recipe is a true weeknight hero and a crowd pleaser every single time.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
1. Do I need to remove the membrane from the ribs before cooking?
Yes, you should remove the thin membrane on the back of the rack. It can be tough and chewy if left on, and it prevents the rub from penetrating the meat. Use a paper towel to grip it and pull it off easily.
2. How long do I cook the ribs in the Instant Pot?
For baby back ribs, cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. For spare ribs, cook for 30 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release for any remaining pressure. This gives perfectly tender meat.
3. Can I use frozen ribs in this recipe?
Yes, you can cook frozen ribs in the Instant Pot. Add 5 to 10 minutes to the pressure cooking time, and make sure the ribs are separated so they cook evenly. Thawed ribs will give a more consistent result, but frozen works in a pinch.
4. What kind of BBQ sauce works best for the glaze?
Any thick, sweet BBQ sauce works well. I prefer a Kansas City style sauce because it has a good balance of sweet and tangy. You can also use a spicy or honey based sauce depending on your taste. Just brush it on generously before broiling.
5. How do I get a sticky, caramelized finish on the ribs?
After pressure cooking, place the ribs on a foil lined baking sheet, brush with BBQ sauce, and broil on high for 3 to 5 minutes. Watch them closely so the sauce bubbles and chars but does not burn. You can repeat for a second coat if you want extra glaze.
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