Here’s a simple, foolproof BBQ Instant Pot Ribs recipe that’s tender, flavorful, and perfect for a quick meal without a slow-cooker wait.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 2–3 lbs pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
- 1 cup water or apple juice (for the Instant Pot)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional for smoky flavor)
- 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions
1. Prep the Ribs
- Remove the silver membrane from the back of the ribs (this makes them more tender).
- Rub both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
2. Add Liquid to Instant Pot
- Pour water or apple juice into the Instant Pot.
- Place the trivet in the pot and set the ribs on top (cut in halves if needed to fit).
3. Pressure Cook
- Seal the lid and set Manual / Pressure Cook to 25–30 minutes (depending on rib thickness).
- Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.
4. Apply BBQ Sauce
- Preheat your oven broiler or grill.
- Brush the cooked ribs generously with BBQ sauce.
5. Broil or Grill (Optional)
- Place ribs on a baking sheet and broil 3–5 minutes until the sauce caramelizes.
- Or grill for a few minutes per side for a smoky char.
6. Serve
- Slice between the bones and serve hot with extra BBQ sauce.
Tips for Perfect Ribs
- Don’t skip the silver membrane — it keeps ribs chewy if left on.
- Liquid choice matters — apple juice adds subtle sweetness; water keeps it neutral.
- Pressure cooking times:
- Baby back ribs: 25 minutes
- Spare ribs: 30–35 minutes
These ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender in under an hour and take almost no hands-on time.
If you want, I can also make a BBQ Instant Pot ribs version with a homemade 5-minute sweet & spicy sauce for extra flavor. Do you want me to do that?