Name: Instant Pot Ribs (Fall-Off-The-Bone)
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs); 1 cup of chicken broth or water; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce; 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1 teaspoon of onion powder; 1 teaspoon of black pepper; 1 teaspoon of salt; Optional: a dash of cayenne pepper for spice

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Instant Pot Ribs: Fall-Off-The-Bone BBQ Ribs Made Easy in a Pressure Cooker 🍖⏱️🔥

1. Introduction

Welcome to the ultimate guide on how to make instant pot ribs that are so tender and flavorful they literally fall off the bone. Perfect for a quick weekend dinner or a special cookout, this pressure cooker recipe transforms tough cuts of pork into juicy, smoky bbq ribs without the long hours of traditional smoking or baking. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, this pressure cooker recipe ensures delicious, moist ribs in a fraction of the time. Let’s dive into the easy steps to create the perfect instant pot ribs experience that will impress your family and friends.

2. Ingredients for Perfect Instant Pot Ribs

2 racks of pork ribs (baby back or spare ribs)
1 cup of chicken broth or water
2 tablespoons of olive oil
1/4 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
2 teaspoons of smoked paprika
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of black pepper
1 teaspoon of salt
Optional: a dash of cayenne pepper for spice

3. Preparing the Ribs for the Pressure Cooker Recipe

3.1. Remove the Thin Membrane

Start by peeling off the thin membrane from the back of the ribs. This step is crucial for tender bbq ribs that are easy to eat and loaded with flavor. Use a paper towel to grip and peel it away smoothly.

3.2. Season the Ribs Generously

Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this spice blend evenly over both sides of the ribs for a flavorful coating that enhances the pressure cooker recipe’s savory notes.

4. Cooking Instant Pot Ribs Step-by-Step

4.1. Sear the Ribs

Set your pressure cooker to the sauté setting and add olive oil. Sear each side of the ribs for 2-3 minutes to lock in flavor and develop a beautiful crust.

4.2. Add Liquid and Prepare for Pressure Cooking

Pour in chicken broth or water to create steam and prevent burning. Place the ribs inside the pressure cooker on the steaming rack or directly if they fit snugly. Close the lid securely and set to high pressure for 25 minutes—this is the key step in dialing in that fall-off-the-bone quality.

4.3. Natural Release & Finish

Once cooking completes, let the pressure release naturally for about 10 minutes. Carefully open the lid, remove the ribs, and brush them generously with your favorite BBQ sauce for added smoky flavor. For a caramelized finish, consider broiling the ribs briefly or using a grill.

5. Enhancing Your Pressure Cooker Ribs with Flavor

While already delicious, you can elevate your bbq ribs by adding a smoky rub or finishing with a splash of apple cider vinegar. For more flavorful recipes, check out our white chicken chili for a hearty side, or explore [other delicious ideas](https://mealsmom.com/peach-cobbler-with-biscuit-topping/) to complement your meal.

6. Storage Tips for Leftover Ribs

Store any leftover instant pot ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven or microwave, and brush with additional BBQ sauce to keep them moist and flavorful. For longer storage, freeze the ribs wrapped tightly in foil or in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

7. Serving Suggestions for Perfect BBQ Ribs

Serve your pressure cooker recipe ribs with classic sides like coleslaw, baked beans, or cornbread for an authentic barbecue experience. For a lighter twist, pair with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables. For an easy starter or side, try our breakfast sliders or blueberry muffins.

8. FAQs About Instant Pot Ribs

How long do I cook ribs in the pressure cooker? Typically, 25 minutes on high pressure is perfect for fall-off-the-bone ribs. Adjust time for different thicknesses or desired tenderness.
Can I use any type of ribs? Yes, both baby back and spare ribs work well with this pressure cooker recipe, though cooking times might vary slightly.
Do I need to remove the membrane before cooking? Removing the membrane ensures the ribs are tender and absorb flavors better, making this step highly recommended.

9. Conclusion

Making instant pot ribs that are irresistibly tender and flavorful is quick and simple with this pressure cooker recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, these ribs deliver that classic BBQ taste in a fraction of the time. With proper seasoning, a good sear, and the right cooking time, you’ll enjoy ribs that fall off the bone every time. Try this method today and experience the joy of crafting perfect bbq ribs using your pressure cooker—delicious, effortless, and guaranteed to impress!

Instant Pot Ribs (Fall-Off-The-Bone)