Instant Pot Ribs (Tender, Saucy & Easy)

When I first tried making Instant Pot ribs, I couldn’t believe how quickly they turned out fall-off-the-bone tender. Normally, ribs are a low-and-slow project, but with the Instant Pot recipes approach, you can enjoy BBQ-style ribs in less than an hour. These ribs are juicy, flavorful, and saucy — perfect for a family dinner or even when friends drop by unexpectedly. I used to save ribs just for weekends, but now they’re a weeknight treat. If you love set-it-and-forget-it comfort foods, you’ll also enjoy my easy slow cooker ravioli lasagna for cozy nights.

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What You’ll Need

Here’s everything I keep on hand when making Instant Pot ribs.

• Pork ribs – Baby back ribs are my go-to; they cook evenly and stay tender.
• Dry rub spices – I like a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper.
• Apple cider vinegar – Helps tenderize the meat and adds a subtle tang.
• BBQ sauce – Use your favorite; I go heavy with a smoky-sweet sauce.
• Instant Pot – My favorite tool for this recipe!
• Tongs + basting brush – For easy handling and saucing.

I’ve found that pressure cooking meats (like these ribs or my pressure cooker pot roast) really makes weeknight dinners stress-free.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Pot Ribs

Just a few steps stand between you and the most tender ribs. Once you try this method, you’ll never go back. I often make these when I’m craving comfort food but don’t want to heat up the oven.

Step 1 — Prep the ribs

Pat dry the ribs with paper towels, then remove the thin membrane on the back. I learned this the hard way — skip it and the ribs stay chewy.

Step 2 — Season generously

Rub the spice mix all over both sides of the ribs. I like to massage it in really well so every bite is flavorful.

Step 3 — Set up the Instant Pot

Pour in 1 cup of water plus 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Add the trivet and arrange the ribs standing up in a circle. This keeps them juicy and evenly cooked.

Step 4 — Pressure cook

Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release the rest. The ribs will already be super tender at this stage.

Step 5 — Sauce & broil (optional)

Brush the ribs with plenty of BBQ sauce. I like to pop them under the broiler for 3–5 minutes to caramelize the sauce — it’s messy, sticky, and worth it.

For a crispier bite, try pairing these ribs with sides made in different gadgets, like my air fryer fried chicken for a fun game-day spread.

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Pro Tips & Easy Swaps

• Use baby back ribs for quicker cooking; spare ribs need extra time.
• Swap apple cider vinegar for lemon juice if that’s what you have.
• Add liquid smoke to the cooking liquid for a stronger BBQ vibe.
• For spicy ribs, mix cayenne into the rub.
• You can prep the ribs earlier in the day, then cook just before dinner.
• Brush on extra sauce after broiling for sticky, restaurant-style ribs.
• Double the recipe by standing two racks of ribs side by side.
• Leftovers? They reheat beautifully in the oven at 300°F.

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Serving Ideas & Variations

These ribs shine on their own, but I like to build a whole plate around them. Try them with:

• Cornbread muffins (my kids devour these with ribs).
• Creamy coleslaw for crunch and freshness.
• Mac and cheese for comfort overload.
• A green salad to balance all the richness.
• Different sauces: honey mustard, spicy Korean gochujang, or tangy Carolina vinegar sauce.
• Try beef ribs instead of pork if you’re feeling bold.

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Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• Overcooking in the broiler – Watch closely! Just 3–5 minutes is enough.
• Skipping the membrane removal – Makes ribs chewy; always peel it off.
• Too little liquid in the pot – Leads to a burn warning; stick to at least 1 cup.
• Not letting pressure release naturally – A quick release right away can dry the meat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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You’ll Also Love

• Instant Pot Cheesecake – because dessert deserves pressure cooking too.
• Instant Pot Lentil Soup – cozy, healthy, and hearty.
• Instant Pot Hard Boiled Eggs – perfect for meal prep.

If you’re craving more easy weeknight dinners, check out all my Instant Pot recipes.