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Instant Pot Ribs

Enjoy tender, flavorful ribs cooked quickly in your Instant Pot, perfect for family dinners or gatherings without the lengthy cooking time.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 570
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 racks baby back ribs (about 2-3 pounds)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought) Choose your favorite type of BBQ sauce.
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar Can substitute with lemon juice.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika Regular paprika can be used if smoked is unavailable.
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup water

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs using a paper towel for better grip.
  2. Cut the racks in half to fit easily into the Instant Pot.
Mixing the Spice Rub
  1. In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Rub the mixture generously over both sides of the ribs until fully coated.
Cooking
  1. Pour water and apple cider vinegar into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
  2. Stand the rib racks on their side within the Instant Pot, using the trivet.
  3. Lock the lid, seal the vent, and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 25 minutes.
  4. Once cooking is complete, allow a natural release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
Finishing Touches
  1. Preheat your oven’s broiler to high.
  2. Carefully remove the ribs and place them on a lined baking sheet.
  3. Brush BBQ sauce generously on both sides of the ribs.
  4. Broil for about 5-7 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and caramelized.
Serving
  1. Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then slice between the bones and serve.
  2. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Notes

For deeper flavor, marinate ribs overnight in the spice mix and BBQ sauce. Store leftover ribs in an airtight container for 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.