Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Instant Pot Ribs in 45 Minutes

Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, smoky BBQ rib, the meat practically melting in your mouth. The sweet and tangy sauce clings to every crevice, creating an explosion of flavor with each bite. No need to fire up the smoker all day, because you can achieve this level of BBQ perfection in just 45 minutes with this game-changing instant pot ribs recipe!

This isn’t just another instant pot recipe; it’s a shortcut to barbecue bliss. I remember my grandfather spending hours tending to his ribs, a labor of love, but sometimes you just crave that taste without the all-day commitment. This recipe captures that slow-smoked flavor in a fraction of the time. Trust me, these instant pot ribs will become your new go-to for weeknight dinners, weekend cookouts, or anytime you need a BBQ fix. Everyone from busy families to seasoned grill masters will appreciate the ease and incredible results. It’s perfect hot off the grill or brought to a backyard potluck. So get ready to experience juicy, fall-off-the-bone goodness that will impress everyone at the table. These instant pot ribs are too good to pass up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lightning-Fast BBQ: Get fall-off-the-bone ribs in just 45 minutes, including prep time!
• Unbelievably Tender: The pressure cooker transforms tough ribs into melt-in-your-mouth perfection.
• Flavor Explosion: The perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory in every bite, that delivers the best instant pot ribs.
• Versatile Meal: Serve them as a main course, or appetizer, or bring them to your next potluck.
• Easy Cleanup: One-pot cooking means less mess and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: No need for a special event, these ribs are perfect for a weeknight dinner!

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s break down the key ingredients that make these instant pot ribs so irresistible:

• Pork Ribs (Spare Ribs or Baby Back Ribs): The star of the show! Choose ribs that are meaty with good marbling. Spare ribs are generally larger and fattier, resulting in a richer flavor. Baby’s back ribs are leaner and more tender. You can’t go wrong with either. Remove the membrane on the back of the ribs for optimal tenderness.
• BBQ Dry Rub: This is where you infuse the ribs with flavor. My personal favorite is a blend of brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Feel free to use your favorite store-bought rub, or create your signature blend. This is ESSENTIAL.
• Liquid Smoke: This adds a smoky depth that mimics the flavor of slow-smoked ribs. A little goes a long way! You can find liquid smoke in most grocery stores, usually near the BBQ sauces or spices, this is ESSENTIAL.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: The acidity tenderizes the meat and adds a subtle tang. White vinegar can be substituted in a pinch, but apple cider vinegar provides a more complex flavor. OPTIONAL, but recommended.
• BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite BBQ sauce. Depending on whether you like sweet, tangy, or spicy flavor profiles, choose accordingly. I like to use about about 3/4 cups because the taste is too concentrated otherwise. I also like to add juice if it is tangy. OPTIONAL.

Kitchen Tools Needed

Making these incredible instant pot ribs doesn’t require a ton of fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Instant Pot (6-quart or larger recommended)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Small bowl (for mixing dry rub)
• Basting brush (optional
• Aluminum Foil (optional)

How To Make This Instant Pot Ribs

1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs by sliding a butter knife under the membrane and pulling it off. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
2. Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl, combine all the dry rub ingredients. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of flavors.
3. Rub Those Ribs: Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the dry rub, pressing it into the meat to ensure it adheres well. Be thorough!
4. Prep the Instant Pot: Pour 1 cup of water, apple cider vinegar, and the liquid smoke into the Instant Pot.
5. Arrange the Ribs: Place either a trivet at the bottom of the pot. Roll the ribs and stand them on their sides, creating a spiral to fit.
6. Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes (for baby back ribs) or 30 minutes (for spare ribs). Ensure the valve is set to the sealing position. These instant pot ribs will be the talk of the town.
7. Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10-15 minutes. This helps the ribs retain their moisture.
8. Release Remaining Pressure: Carefully release any remaining pressure manually. Open the lid and carefully remove the ribs.
9. BBQ Sauce Time: If desired, brush the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce.
10. Broil or Grill (Optional): For that caramelized, sticky BBQ goodness, broil the ribs in the oven for 3-5 minutes, or grill them over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, flipping once. Watch closely to prevent burning!
11. Rest and Serve: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in even more tender and flavorful ribs.

Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t Skip the Dry Rub: The dry rub is essential for building a flavorful crust and infusing the ribs with delicious spices.
• Natural Pressure Release is Key: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure is crucial for tender, juicy ribs.
• Adjust Cooking Time for Rib Type: Baby back ribs require less cooking time than spare ribs.
• Broil or Grill for Extra Flavor: For a deeper smoky flavor and caramelized sauce, broil the ribs for a few minutes after cooking them in the Instant Pot. This elevates the instant pot ribs.
• Make Ahead: The ribs can be cooked in the Instant Pot ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and broil or grill before serving.
• Add a touch of sweetness Brush on honey the last minute before browning them.

Variations and Dietary Swaps

• Spicy Ribs: Add cayenne pepper or a pinch of chili flakes to the dry rub for a spicy kick.
• Asian-Inspired Ribs: Use a teriyaki or hoisin-based BBQ sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure your BBQ sauce and dry rub are gluten-free. Many store-bought BBQ sauces contain gluten. You can easily swap out the brown sugar in the rub for coconut sugar.
• Honey Garlic: Drizzle the instant pot ribs with a mixture of honey and garlic powder before broiling or grilling.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic BBQ Sides: Serve these instant pot ribs with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, cornbread, baked beans, and potato salad.
• Fresh Salad: Balance the richness of the ribs with a refreshing summer salad or a crunchy cucumber salad.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled corn on the cob, bell peppers, or zucchini make a delicious and healthy side dish.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the ribs for a pop of freshness and color.
• Beverage Pairings: Enjoy these ribs with a cold beer, iced tea, or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, wrap the ribs in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through, you can also microwave the ribs, but this may affect the texture. The texture may be slightly softer after reheating.

These instant pot ribs are a game-changer for anyone who craves that smoky, tender BBQ flavor without spending hours tending to a smoker. I truly believe this will be your new go-to recipe for BBQ ribs! Enjoy.

Ready to experience fall-off-the-bone ribs in under an hour? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think in the comments below. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share your photos on social media using #culinarycraving! Follow Culinary Craving on Instagram and Facebook for more delicious recipes and cooking tips! What BBQ sauce did you use on your ribs?

Related Recipes

• Grilled Corn Salad with Cilantro-Lime Dressing (a fresh and vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with the richness of the instant pot ribs)
• Homemade Coleslaw (a classic BBQ side that provides a cool and creamy contrast to the smoky ribs)

Frequently Asked Questions