Experience the magic of your Instant Pot and savor a rack of exceptionally tender, incredibly juicy, and beautifully glazed ribs in record time! With this surprisingly simple recipe, you’ll wonder why you ever bothered with a grill for perfect BBQ ribs.
Effortless Perfection: Instant Pot Ribs for Any Occasion
Instant Pot Ribs redefine convenience without sacrificing flavor or texture. This method offers a deliciously simple and significantly faster approach to achieving classic, succulent ribs. Whether your preference is for ribs that literally melt off the bone or those with a satisfying, slight chew, this Instant Pot recipe is highly customizable to your desired level of doneness. Imagine preparing incredibly flavorful and tender ribs with just about 5 minutes of active prep time and less than 30 minutes of actual pressure cooking. This efficiency means that gourmet-quality ribs can be a reality even on the busiest of weeknights, transforming an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. Say goodbye to long hours of slow cooking and hello to quick, impressive results that will make these a regular in your meal rotation.
Your Top Questions Answered: Instant Pot Ribs FAQ
Navigating new cooking methods often comes with questions. Here, we address the most common inquiries about making ribs in your Instant Pot, providing you with all the insights you need for a flawless cooking experience.
Are ribs better in the oven or Instant Pot?
Both oven-baked ribs and Instant Pot ribs deliver delicious results, but they cater to slightly different preferences and time constraints. Oven-baked ribs often benefit from a longer, slower cooking process, which can sometimes result in a marginally more “fall-off-the-bone” texture if that’s your ultimate goal. The consistent, low heat of an oven coaxes the collagen in the ribs to break down over several hours, leading to an incredibly tender finish. However, the Instant Pot offers an undeniable advantage in terms of speed and convenience. While still achieving incredibly tender, succulent ribs – a favorite among many, including my own brother – it drastically cuts down on cooking time. You can achieve perfectly cooked ribs in under an hour, as opposed to the several hours required by traditional oven methods. The pressure cooking environment ensures deep flavor penetration and a moist product, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you crave delicious ribs without the lengthy wait. So, “better” truly depends on your priority: traditional slow-cooked tenderness with more time, or rapid, impressive tenderness with the Instant Pot.
How much liquid do you put in an Instant Pot for ribs?
For this specific recipe, I recommend using a precise amount of liquid to ensure optimal moisture and to prevent any common Instant Pot issues like the “Burn Notice.” The ideal combination is 1 cup of beef broth paired with 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar. This amount of liquid is carefully calculated to generate sufficient steam for pressure cooking the ribs perfectly. More importantly, it safeguards against the dreaded Burn Notice, which can occur if there isn’t enough liquid at the bottom of the pot. Beyond its functional role, this flavorful liquid base also infuses the ribs with a deeper, richer taste profile as they cook under pressure, contributing significantly to their overall deliciousness.
What kind of liquid should I use with ribs?
While plain water will certainly work in a pinch for generating steam, elevating the flavor profile of your Instant Pot ribs is simple by choosing the right liquid. As mentioned, I highly recommend a blend of apple cider vinegar and beef broth. The beef broth provides a savory depth, complementing the richness of the pork, while the apple cider vinegar adds a subtle tang and helps tenderize the meat. This combination creates a remarkably flavorful cooking environment that permeates the ribs. If beef broth isn’t available, chicken broth or vegetable broth are excellent substitutes, each offering a slightly different but equally delicious foundation. Should you only have water on hand, rest assured it will still yield tender ribs, albeit with a less complex underlying flavor. Feel free to experiment with other liquids like beer, hard cider, or even a splash of orange juice for unique flavor twists.
Can I stack ribs in the Instant Pot?
Proper arrangement of ribs in the Instant Pot is crucial for even cooking. It’s generally advised against cutting the ribs into individual pieces and stacking them haphazardly, as this can lead to uneven cooking and some pieces being over or underdone. Instead, for a single rack of ribs, the best approach is to gently curl it into a circular shape inside the pot, ensuring the meat side faces outwards to maximize exposure to the seasoned liquid and steam. If you need to cook an additional rack, it is possible to stack them, but do so by curling one rack inside the other, creating a layered spiral. However, be mindful of your Instant Pot’s capacity. A 6-quart model might struggle to accommodate two full racks comfortably, while an 8-quart offers more room. Keep in mind that cooking more meat will increase the time it takes for the pressure cooker to come to pressure, but the actual pressure cooking time for the ribs themselves will remain consistent.
Can I put frozen ribs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, the Instant Pot is incredibly versatile and can handle frozen ribs, making it a lifesaver when you forget to thaw them in advance. However, the cooking time will need to be adjusted significantly. For frozen ribs, you’ll need to pressure cook them for approximately 50 minutes. Following the pressure cooking, it’s essential to allow for a natural pressure release for about 15 minutes. This extended cooking and natural release time ensures that the ribs cook through evenly from their frozen state, resulting in tender and delicious results, much like fresh ribs, but with a longer overall processing time to account for the initial chill.
What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?
No Instant Pot? No problem! While this recipe highlights the speed and efficiency of pressure cooking, there are many fantastic ways to prepare tender, flavorful ribs using other kitchen appliances. You can achieve equally delicious results with longer cooking methods. Explore my recipes for Slow Cooker BBQ Ribs, which yield incredibly tender meat with minimal effort; Air Fryer Ribs for a crispier exterior; or classic Grilled Pork Ribs for that smoky outdoor flavor. Simply click on the links provided to discover these alternative methods and find the perfect rib recipe for your kitchen.
Do I have to use mustard?
The yellow mustard in this recipe plays a strategic role beyond just flavor; it acts as an excellent adhesive. Coating the ribs with mustard before applying the dry rub ensures that the brown sugar and various seasonings stick evenly and generously to the meat. This creates a flavorful crust that caramelizes beautifully during the final broiling step. While I highly recommend it for both its binding properties and the subtle tangy depth it adds, if you have an aversion to mustard or simply prefer not to use it, this step is entirely optional. The ribs will still be delicious and tender, though the crust might not be as uniform or as deeply flavored.
How do I make smoky ribs in the Instant Pot?
Achieving a smoky flavor in an Instant Pot, which typically doesn’t use smoke, is surprisingly easy with a clever trick. To infuse your ribs with a hint of that desired smoky essence, simply add a couple of drops of liquid smoke to the liquid base in the pot before pressure cooking. Liquid smoke is a concentrated flavoring agent derived from real wood smoke, and a small amount goes a long way. It will subtly penetrate the ribs during the cooking process, giving them a delightful smoky undertone that mimics slow-smoked ribs without needing a smoker.
What Instant Pot model do you use?
For consistency and to cater to the majority of home cooks, this recipe was developed using a standard 6-quart Instant Pot. This size is widely available and is often the most common electric pressure cooker owned by individuals in America. While specific colors or older models may no longer be manufactured, the fundamental functionality remains the same across 6-quart Instant Pot models. It’s important to note that performance can vary slightly between different brands and styles of electric pressure cookers. If you are using a different brand or a different capacity Instant Pot, you may need to apply your own judgment and knowledge of your specific appliance to make minor adjustments to liquid amounts or cooking times to achieve the best results.
I lost my Instant Pot trivet, what do I do?
The trivet is essential for Instant Pot ribs, as it keeps the meat elevated above the cooking liquid, allowing it to steam effectively and preventing it from boiling directly in the broth. If you find yourself without your Instant Pot trivet, there are a couple of ingenious and safe DIY solutions. You can easily roll up two or three balls of aluminum foil, making them sturdy enough to create a small stand at the bottom of the pot. Alternatively, placing a couple of onion halves (cut side down) can also serve as a makeshift trivet. The goal is simply to lift the ribs slightly off the bottom of the pot, ensuring proper steam circulation around them and preventing them from sitting directly in the liquid. This ensures even cooking and keeps your ribs moist and tender.
How to store and reheat ribs?
Proper storage and reheating are key to enjoying your delicious Instant Pot ribs even after the initial meal. Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, they freeze exceptionally well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to reheat, the best method to maintain their tenderness and moisture is to create a sealed foil packet. Place the ribs inside the packet, add about 3 tablespoons of beef broth or water to create a steamy environment, and seal it tightly. Reheat this packet in a preheated oven until the ribs are thoroughly warmed through. This technique helps prevent the ribs from drying out, ensuring they taste almost as good as fresh off the Instant Pot.
Essential Ingredients for Tender Instant Pot Ribs
Crafting perfect Instant Pot ribs starts with selecting high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, along with some insights into their role and potential substitutions:
- Baby Back Ribs: These are my preferred choice for their tenderness and manageable size, fitting perfectly curled into most Instant Pots. While I haven’t extensively tested this recipe with St. Louis ribs, they tend to be larger and might require cutting or a larger Instant Pot to fit properly without compromising even cooking.
- Yellow Mustard: As highlighted in our FAQ, yellow mustard serves as an excellent binder for the seasoning, ensuring a rich, flavorful crust. Beyond its practical use, it contributes a subtle tang that beautifully complements the sweetness of the brown sugar and the spice of the BBQ seasoning, adding an extra layer of flavor. However, if you’re not a fan of mustard, you can omit this step without severely impacting the overall deliciousness, though the seasoning may adhere less uniformly.
- Light Brown Sugar: This ingredient is crucial for creating that quintessential sweet and savory BBQ flavor profile. When packed, light brown sugar brings a molasses-rich sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tangy mustard and savory BBQ seasoning, developing a complex depth of flavor that caramelizes beautifully during the broiling stage.
- BBQ Seasoning: The heart of your rib’s flavor! You can absolutely use your favorite store-bought BBQ seasoning blend for convenience. For a more personalized touch, feel free to use 2 tablespoons of your go-to homemade BBQ rub. Look for blends with a balance of sweet, smoky, and savory notes.
- Beef Broth: This liquid forms the flavor base for your pressure cooking, infusing the ribs with savory goodness. As discussed in the FAQ, it’s highly recommended over plain water for a richer taste. Chicken or vegetable broth are excellent alternatives if beef broth isn’t available, providing similar moisture and flavor-enhancing benefits.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: A vital component for both flavor and tenderness. Apple cider vinegar contributes a pleasant acidity that brightens the overall taste of the ribs and actively aids in breaking down the meat’s connective tissues, resulting in more tender ribs. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, regular white vinegar can be used, or you can substitute with additional broth or water, though the distinct tang will be missed.
- BBQ Sauce: The finishing touch! While I often use a classic like Sweet Baby Ray’s for its widespread appeal and balanced flavor, feel free to choose any brand you love. Alternatively, elevate your ribs with a homemade BBQ sauce for a truly bespoke experience.
- Water (for sauce thinning, optional): A small amount of water, typically 1 tablespoon, can be added to the BBQ sauce to thin it slightly. This makes the sauce easier to brush evenly over the cooked ribs, ensuring a smooth, glazed finish. This step is entirely optional and depends on the consistency of your chosen BBQ sauce and your preference.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Irresistible Instant Pot Ribs
Creating tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs in your Instant Pot is a straightforward process, but paying attention to each step ensures perfect results. Follow this detailed guide to achieve succulent BBQ ribs every time.
- Prepare the Ribs: Begin by carefully removing the thin membrane from the back of the rack of baby back ribs. This membrane can be tough and chewy, so removing it is crucial for optimal tenderness. Using a paper towel to grip the slippery membrane makes it much easier to pull off in one go. Once the membrane is removed, thoroughly pat the ribs dry with paper towels. A dry surface allows the seasonings to adhere better and helps create a beautiful crust.
- Apply the Mustard Base: Generously brush the entire rack of ribs with yellow mustard. Don’t worry, the strong mustard flavor will mellow considerably during cooking, transforming into a subtle tang that complements the BBQ notes. Its primary role here is to act as a sticky base, ensuring that your seasonings adhere perfectly to the meat.
- Season for Flavor: Evenly rub the light brown sugar all over the mustard-coated ribs. Ensure it’s well distributed, as this will contribute to the sweet, caramelized crust. Immediately follow with a generous application of your chosen BBQ seasoning, pressing it gently into the meat so it sticks to the mustard and brown sugar layer.
- Set Up the Instant Pot: Place the trivet (or your makeshift foil balls/onion halves) into the bottom of your Instant Pot liner. This keeps the ribs elevated above the cooking liquid, allowing them to steam under pressure rather than boil. Pour in the beef broth and apple cider vinegar. This liquid mixture is essential for building pressure, preventing a burn notice, and infusing the ribs with flavor.
- Arrange the Ribs: Gently curl the seasoned rack of ribs into the Instant Pot, positioning it meat-side out. It should fit snugly around the inside wall of a 6-quart or 8-quart pot. If cooking multiple racks, curl one inside the other, ensuring they don’t block the vent.
- Pressure Cook: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and turn the vent knob to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting and set the cooking time to 24 minutes on high pressure. The Instant Pot will take approximately 11-12 minutes to come to full pressure before the actual cooking countdown begins.
- Natural Release: Once the 24 minutes of pressure cooking are complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes. This natural release period is crucial as it allows the internal temperature of the ribs to gradually decrease, preventing the meat from becoming tough and ensuring maximum tenderness. After 15 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure by carefully turning the vent knob to “Venting.”
- Remove and Sauce: Once all pressure is released and the lid opens safely, gently remove the ribs from the Instant Pot. The easiest way to do this is often by lifting them out using the trivet handles. Be extremely careful, as the ribs will be incredibly tender at this stage and may want to fall apart. Place them onto a sheet tray.
- Prepare and Apply BBQ Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together your favorite BBQ sauce with 1 tablespoon of water (if needed, to thin it slightly for easier brushing). Brush this luscious sauce generously all over the ribs. If you’re concerned about the ribs breaking apart when flipping, simply focus on saucing the top side for a beautiful glaze.
- Broil to Perfection: For that irresistible sticky, caramelized glaze, place the sauced ribs under a hot broiler for a couple of minutes. Keep a very close eye on them during this step, as broiler temperatures can vary, and they can go from perfectly glazed to burnt very quickly. Once the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized, remove them from the oven.
- Serve Immediately: Your tender, juicy, and beautifully glazed Instant Pot Ribs are ready to be devoured! Serve them hot with your favorite side dishes.
Instant Pot Ribs: The Ultimate Recipe
Easily make a rack of tender, juicy, and beautifully glazed ribs in the Instant Pot with this simple, foolproof recipe. Perfect for weeknights or gatherings!
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 26 minutes (pressure cooking)
- Additional Time: 27 minutes (coming to pressure & natural release)
- Total Time: 58 minutes
- Servings: 2 servings
- Author: Brandie Skibinski
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Ingredients
- 1 rack baby back ribs
- 1 Tablespoon yellow mustard
- 1 Tablespoon light brown sugar (packed)
- 2 Tablespoons bbq seasoning
- 1 cup beef broth
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup bbq sauce
- 1 Tablespoon water (optional, to thin sauce)
Instructions
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. Use a paper towel to assist with gripping the slippery membrane.
- Pat the ribs dry, then brush thoroughly with yellow mustard.
- Rub the packed light brown sugar evenly over the ribs, followed by the BBQ seasoning.
- Place the trivet into the Instant Pot. Add the beef broth and apple cider vinegar to the pot.
- Curl the seasoned ribs, meat side out, into a 6-quart or 8-quart Instant Pot.
- Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and ensure the vent knob is set to the “Sealing” position.
- Select “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 24 minutes. Allow 11-12 minutes for the pot to come to pressure before cooking begins.
- Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes. After this time, manually release any remaining pressure.
- Open the lid and gently remove the ribs, placing them onto a sheet tray. Lifting with the trivet is often easiest due to their tenderness.
- In a small bowl, stir together the BBQ sauce and water. Brush this mixture generously over the ribs. If ribs are extremely tender and prone to breaking, focus on coating the top side.
- Place the ribs under a broiler for a couple of minutes to create a beautiful glaze. Monitor closely to prevent burning. Serve immediately.
Recipe Notes and Expert Tips
- For detailed explanations on substitutions, troubleshooting, and ingredient choices, please refer to the comprehensive FAQ and ingredient list sections above.
- Feel free to use your favorite store-bought BBQ seasoning blend, or substitute with 2 tablespoons of your preferred homemade BBQ rub for a custom flavor.
- While water can be used, beef broth adds a richer, more savory depth to the ribs during pressure cooking.
- To introduce a subtle smoky flavor, add a couple of drops of liquid smoke to the liquid in the bottom of the pot before cooking.
- To reheat leftover ribs, create a sealed foil packet with about 3 tablespoons of beef broth or water, then warm in the oven until heated through to prevent drying.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months for longer preservation.
Nutrition Information
Course: Main Course | Cuisine: American
Calories: 845 kcal |
Carbohydrates: 45g |
Protein: 58g |
Fat: 48g |
Sodium: 1520mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 30g
Nutritional Disclaimer
“The Country Cook” is not a registered dietitian or nutritionist, and all nutritional information provided is an estimate based on common ingredient values. If precise calorie counts and other nutritional data are important to your dietary needs, we strongly recommend calculating the ingredients through your preferred online nutritional calculator. Actual nutritional values can vary significantly depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.
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Craving More Rib Recipes and Culinary Adventures?
If these Instant Pot Ribs have ignited your passion for perfectly cooked pork, explore more delicious rib recipes and other mouth-watering dishes:
- Grilled Baby Back Ribs (with video guide)
- The Best Crock Pot Ribs (with video guide)
- Flavorful Smoked Beef Ribs
- Instant Pot Korean BBQ Country Style Ribs (with video guide)
- Grilled Honey Orange Ribs
