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Fall-Off-The-Bone Instant Pot BBQ Ribs

4.8/5
Fall-Off-The-Bone Instant Pot BBQ Ribs
⏱️
50 min Total Time
👥
4 servings Portions
🟡
Easy Difficulty
💰
Moderate Cost
🔥
520 kcal Calories/serving

📹 Video Tutorial from YouTube

ℹ️ Video Disclaimer: This video is embedded from YouTube and is not owned by us. All rights belong to the original creator. Watch on YouTube

🛒 Quick Ingredients

4 portions

📋 Complete Ingredients List

💡 Pro tip: Tap items to check them off as you prep!

  • 2 racks baby back pork ribs (about 4-5 pounds total)
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup apple juice or water
  • 1 cup your favorite BBQ sauce

🍳 Quick Cooking Steps

1

Remove membrane from back of ribs by sliding knife under it and pulling with paper towel

2

Mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne to create dry rub

3

Pat ribs dry and generously coat both sides with dry rub mixture

4

Pour apple juice or water into Instant Pot insert

5

Place trivet in Instant Pot and arrange ribs standing up, wrapping around the pot in a circle

6

Close lid and set valve to sealing position

7

Cook on High Pressure for 25 minutes

8

Allow for 10 minutes natural pressure release, then quick release remaining pressure

9

Optional: Brush with BBQ sauce and broil for 3-5 minutes for caramelization

10

Let rest for 5 minutes before cutting between bones to serve

🔧 Kitchen Tools & Equipment

📋 Complete Tools List

  • Instant Pot (6 quart or larger)
  • Sharp knife for removing membrane
  • Paper towels
  • Measuring spoons
  • Trivet or steam rack
  • Aluminum foil
  • Basting brush
  • Tongs

⚡ Quick Cooking Tips

For spicier ribs, double the cayenne pepper in the rub

Try different liquid bases like beer or cola for unique flavors

Cut racks in half if they don't fit whole in your Instant Pot

Use honey instead of brown sugar for different sweetness

Add liquid smoke for more traditional BBQ flavor

Try Asian-style by using hoisin and five-spice powder

Make it sweeter with pineapple juice instead of apple juice

📊 Nutrition Facts

520
Calories
38g
Protein
24g
Carbs
32g
Fat

🔥 Time to Burn Calories

Walking 90min, Running 45min, Cycling 60min

📦 Storage & Meal Prep

🥶 Storage Instructions

  • Store cooled ribs in airtight container in refrigerator for up to 4 days Keep BBQ sauce separate if storing for multiple days Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out

🔥 Reheating Tips

  • Reheat in Instant Pot on Steam setting for 3-4 minutes Wrap in foil and heat in oven at 250F for 20-30 minutes Add extra BBQ sauce before reheating to maintain moisture

⏰ Make Ahead Tips

  • Prepare dry rub up to 1 month in advance Remove membrane and apply rub up to 24 hours before cooking BBQ sauce can be prepared or mixed several days ahead

❄️ Freezing Guide

  • Freeze cooked ribs in heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months Wrap individual portions in foil before freezing Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with classic coleslaw for a traditional BBQ meal Pair with corn on the cob and baked beans Add a side of mac and cheese for ultimate comfort food Serve with roasted sweet potato wedges Include pickles and sliced onions as traditional garnishes

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Not removing the membrane from back of ribs Overcrowding the Instant Pot which prevents proper cooking Quick releasing pressure immediately after cooking Not allowing meat to rest before cutting Using too much liquid in the Instant Pot

🎨 Recipe Variations

  • Korean style: Use gochujang and sesame oil in the sauce Honey garlic: Replace BBQ sauce with honey garlic glaze Teriyaki: Use teriyaki sauce and add ginger to the rub Memphis style: Use dry rub only, no sauce Smoky chipotle: Add chipotle peppers and adobo sauce

❓ Quick Cooking Q&A

How do I know if my ribs are done?

The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone, but not completely falling off.

Can I stack ribs in the Instant Pot?

It's better to wrap them around the pot in a circle rather than stack them for even cooking.

Why do I need to remove the membrane?

The membrane can be tough and prevents flavors from penetrating the meat.

Can I use frozen ribs?

Yes, add 5-10 minutes to cooking time if using frozen ribs.

What's the best BBQ sauce to use?

Any favorite BBQ sauce works well, or make your own for custom flavor.

Can I make these ribs ahead for a party?

Yes, cook them ahead and reheat with extra sauce when ready to serve.

How many racks can I cook at once?

Most 6-quart Instant Pots can fit 2 racks when properly arranged.

Should I marinate the ribs first?

The dry rub is sufficient, but you can marinate for extra flavor if desired.

Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back?

Yes, but cooking time should be increased by 5-7 minutes.

What if my ribs are too long for the pot?

Cut the rack into smaller sections to fit properly.

⭐ Community Reviews

Alejandra M.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
These ribs were incredible! So tender and flavorful.
Benjamin T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Great recipe, though I added more spice to the rub.
Charlotte W.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best ribs I've ever made at home!
Derek H.
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Super easy and delicious. Will make again.
Elena R.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My family couldn't believe these were made in an Instant Pot!
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