If you’ve ever dreamed of tender, flavorful ribs that practically fall off the bone but don’t want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen, you’re going to adore this Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe. This method transforms a classic favorite into a fuss-free, speedy meal without sacrificing an ounce of that smoky, saucy goodness we all crave. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a weekend feast, these ribs bring a warm, satisfying hug of flavor that’s guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to share your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of taste and attracting the eye with vibrant colors, from the tangy mustard base to the sweet and smoky seasoning blend that elevates these ribs to something truly special.
- 1 rack baby back ribs, membrane removed: Removing the membrane ensures tender bites every time and allows seasonings to penetrate deeply.
- 2 Tbsp yellow mustard: This helps the dry rub adhere while adding a gentle tang that balances sweetness.
- 1½ Tbsp brown sugar: Brings a caramelized sweetness that melts into the meat for that coveted sticky finish.
- 1½ tsp paprika: Adds vibrant color and a subtle smoky depth without heat.
- 1½ tsp chili powder: Offers mild warmth and complexity to the rub’s flavor profile.
- ¼ tsp garlic powder: Gives a savory background note that complements the meat beautifully.
- ½ tsp onion powder: Enhances overall umami and rounds out the spice blend perfectly.
- ½ cup water: Creates steam so the ribs cook tender and juicy in the Instant Pot.
- ½ cup cider vinegar: Cuts through richness with acidity and tenderizes while injecting brightness.
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce: The finishing touch that lends saucy, sticky, caramelized magic straight from the broiler.
How to Make Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Start by spreading yellow mustard evenly over both sides of the ribs. Don’t worry—the mustard won’t overpower your ribs; instead, it acts as a flavor “glue” for the seasoning blend you’ll sprinkle next. It sets the stage for all those delicious spices.
Step 2: Mix and Apply the Dry Rub
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. This dry rub is where most of the flavor magic happens. Generously sprinkle it on all sides of the ribs, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks well to the mustard-coated surface. The sugar caramelizes beautifully later, making each bite unforgettable.
Step 3: Set Up the Instant Pot
Place the metal rack that came with your Instant Pot at the bottom. This keeps the ribs elevated so they cook evenly without stewing. Place the seasoned rack of ribs on top. The rack is essential to avoid sogginess and helps create that perfect tenderness.
Step 4: Add Cooking Liquids and Seal
Pour water and cider vinegar into the pot around the ribs—not on top, so you retain your rub’s goodness. The cider vinegar introduces a sharp zip that brightens flavors and tenderizes the meat, making every bite pop with freshness. Secure the lid and set your Instant Pot to manual or pressure cook mode for 20 minutes.
Step 5: Release Pressure and Prepare for Finishing
Once cooking finishes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes—this step helps maintain the meat’s moisture and tenderness. Then do a quick release to drop any remaining steam. Carefully remove the ribs; they’ll be cooked through and juicy but need that final caramelized finish to seal the deal.
Step 6: Broil and Glaze the Ribs
Place the ribs on a baking sheet and brush generously with your favorite BBQ sauce. Broil for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely, until the sauce bubbles and caramelizes, creating that irresistible sticky crust everyone loves. This final step transforms the ribs visually and flavor-wise.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the ribs between the bones into individual portions, plate them up, and offer extra BBQ sauce for dipping. Now, sit back and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley or cilantro adds a burst of green to contrast the rich, smoky ribs, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds pairs beautifully if you want a subtle crunch. Thinly sliced green onions also bring a fresh, mild onion bite that brightens each mouthful without overpowering.
Side Dishes
Classic pairings like creamy coleslaw or buttery corn on the cob never go out of style and perfectly balance the ribs’ bold flavors. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or baked beans offer comforting, filling richness. Even a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette can refresh your palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the ribs family-style on a large wooden board alongside pickled veggies for contrast, or arrange them stacked for a rustic, hearty look. For casual get-togethers, wrap ribs in parchment with a sprinkle of extra seasoning and let guests unwrap the tasty surprise themselves—fun and interactive!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your feast, wrap any leftover ribs tightly in aluminum foil or place them in an airtight container. They’ll keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days, maintaining great flavor and tenderness.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the ribs after cooking and cooling completely. Use freezer-safe bags or containers to prevent freezer burn, and they’ll be good for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, cover ribs loosely with foil and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through, about 15-20 minutes. You can brush a little extra BBQ sauce on before reheating to revive that delicious glaze and keep the ribs moist.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ribs in this Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe?
While baby back ribs are perfect here for their tenderness and size, you can also try spare ribs using the same cooking method. Just be aware that spare ribs might need a few extra minutes in the pot due to their thicker meat and bone content.
What if I don’t have cider vinegar? Can I substitute it?
If cider vinegar isn’t available, white vinegar or apple juice mixed with a dash of lemon juice can work as alternatives. The goal is to introduce acidity for balance and tenderizing effects.
Is it necessary to broil the ribs after pressure cooking?
While you could eat the ribs straight from the Instant Pot, broiling adds that signature caramelized BBQ crust that makes ribs so crave-worthy. It’s worth the extra few minutes to bring the textures and flavors fully to life.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Make sure your BBQ sauce and spices are certified gluten-free. This Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe itself contains naturally gluten-free ingredients, making it easy to enjoy without worry.
How do I know when the ribs are done in the Instant Pot?
The ribs should be tender and with meat that easily pulls away from the bone. The pressure cooking time and natural release method in this recipe ensures that perfect texture every time, so you can trust the timer!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about sinking your teeth into perfectly cooked ribs that have been lovingly prepared yet quick enough for any busy day. This Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe is a total winner for anyone who wants that sweet, tangy, and tender rib experience without the hassle. Invite your friends or family over, whip up these ribs, and prepare for a heartfelt, flavor-packed meal that’s bound to become one of your favorite recipes.
Print
Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs recipe offers tender, flavorful ribs cooked under pressure for quick and easy preparation. The ribs are first seasoned with a mustard and spice rub, pressure cooked with a tangy liquid mix, then finished under the broiler with BBQ sauce for a caramelized, delicious finish. Perfect for a quick BBQ-style meal without the long wait.
Ingredients
Ribs and Rub
- 1 rack baby back ribs (membrane removed)
- 2 Tbsp yellow mustard
- 1½ Tbsp brown sugar
- 1½ tsp paprika
- 1½ tsp chili powder
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
Cooking Liquid and Sauce
- ½ cup water
- ½ cup cider vinegar
- ¼ cup BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the ribs: Spread yellow mustard evenly on both sides of the ribs to help the dry rub adhere and add flavor.
- Apply dry rub: In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs to create a flavorful crust.
- Set up Instant Pot: Place the rack (trivet) inside the bottom of the Instant Pot to keep ribs elevated above the liquid.
- Place ribs in pot: Lay the ribs on top of the rack inside the Instant Pot, arranging them carefully to fit if needed.
- Add cooking liquids: Pour water and cider vinegar into the pot around the ribs to create steam for pressure cooking and infuse flavor.
- Pressure cook ribs: Secure and lock the Instant Pot lid. Cook on manual high pressure for 20 minutes. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then perform a quick release to release any remaining steam.
- Prepare for broiling: Carefully remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and place them on a baking sheet.
- Brush with BBQ sauce: Generously brush both sides of the ribs with BBQ sauce to provide a flavorful glaze.
- Broil ribs: Preheat the oven broiler. Place the ribs under the broiler for 3 to 5 minutes, watching closely until the BBQ sauce caramelizes and becomes slightly charred.
- Serve: Cut the ribs into individual portions and serve with additional BBQ sauce as desired.
Notes
- Removing the membrane from the ribs ensures tenderness and better flavor absorption.
- The natural release time allows the ribs to finish cooking gently and retain moisture.
- Keep a close eye during broiling to prevent burning the sauce.
- You can adjust the choice of BBQ sauce according to taste preferences for sweetness or spiciness.
- For even easier cleanup, line the baking sheet with foil before broiling the ribs.
