instant pot spare ribs recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
instant pot spare ribs recipe
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The Best instant pot spare ribs recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Instant Pot spare ribs recipe. I’ve been making this dish for years, and it’s always a hit with my family and friends. The combination of tender meat, rich flavors, and the ease of cooking in the Instant Pot makes it a perfect recipe for any occasion.

Whether you’re planning a special dinner or just need a quick and easy meal for a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to please. I’ve tried many different methods for cooking spare ribs, but the Instant Pot is hands down my favorite way to make them. The result is always fall-off-the-bone tender meat that’s infused with all the rich flavors of the sauce.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make! All you need is a few simple ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment.

I love that this recipe is not only delicious but also relatively healthy compared to other meat-based dishes. The low and slow cooking process in the Instant Pot makes it easy to cook the ribs without adding extra fat or calories. Plus, you can customize the sauce to your liking with your favorite spices and herbs.

I often add a bit of brown sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomato sauce, but feel free to experiment and find your own perfect combination. My kids love helping me make this dish because it’s so much fun to get creative with the toppings and sides. We like to serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

And don’t even get me started on how much my husband loves when I make this dish for him – it’s his absolute favorite! The combination of flavors and textures in this recipe is truly something special. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves good food and wants to impress their family and friends.

Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Instant Pot Spare Ribs

4.9 from 1350 votes

These Instant Pot spare ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with savory flavor. A quick pressure cooking method delivers juicy ribs with a sticky, caramelized glaze in under an hour.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ribs

2 racks (about 3-4 lbs) pork spare ribs, membrane removed
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
1 cup beef broth or water

For the BBQ Sauce

1 cup ketchup
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp liquid smoke (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the spare ribs dry with paper towels.
2In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
3Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
4Pour the beef broth into the Instant Pot and place the trivet or steamer basket inside.
5Stand the ribs upright around the trivet, leaning them against the sides of the pot.
6Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
7While the ribs cook, prepare the BBQ sauce.
8In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and liquid smoke if using.
9Stir occasionally and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened, then remove from heat.
10Once the Instant Pot cycle ends, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining steam.
11Open the lid and use tongs to transfer the ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet.
12Brush generously with the prepared BBQ sauce.
13Preheat the oven broiler to high.
14Place the sauced ribs under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely, until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes.
15Remove from the oven, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice between the bones and serve.

🔧Equipment

Instant Pot (6-quart or larger)
Trivet or steamer basket
Mixing bowl
Small saucepan
Tongs
Basting brush (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 10g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 1100mg🌾Total Carbs: 18g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 14g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For extra tenderness, remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs before seasoning. You can substitute pork loin back ribs or St. Louis style ribs, adjusting cooking time by 5 minutes if needed. Leftover ribs reheat well in the oven or air fryer.

Watch Video Of How Instant Pot Spare Ribs Works

This Instant Pot spare ribs recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight meal. It’s incredibly easy to make, relatively healthy compared to other meat-based dishes, and offers endless opportunities for customization with your favorite spices and herbs.

My family loves helping me make this dish because it’s so much fun to get creative with the toppings and sides. We like to serve it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Q: What type of meat should I use for this recipe?

The best type of meat to use for this recipe is pork spareribs, which come from the ribcage area of the pig. You can usually find them at most grocery stores or butcher shops.

Q: Can I use baby back ribs instead?

Baby back ribs are a great option if you can’t find regular pork spareribs or prefer a more compact cut of meat.

Q: How do I ensure my ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender?

Make sure to cook your ribs low and slow in the Instant Pot for at least 30 minutes, or until they’re tender and easily shred with a fork.

Q: Can I customize the sauce to my liking?

Yes, you can adjust the amount of spices and herbs in the sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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