Succulent Instant Pot Ribs Recipe
Introduction
Instant Pot ribs are a quick and delicious way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep, you can have mouthwatering ribs ready to serve in no time.

Ingredients
- 2 to 3 pounds of ribs (pork or beef)
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 teaspoons your favorite spice blend (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, etc.)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup water or broth (for Instant Pot)
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the ribs evenly with salt, pepper, and your chosen spice blend on both sides.
- Step 2: Pour water or broth into the Instant Pot and place the ribs on the trivet or directly inside, coiling them if needed.
- Step 3: Seal the Instant Pot lid and cook on high pressure for 25 to 30 minutes depending on the thickness of your ribs.
- Step 4: Once cooking is complete, carefully release the pressure and remove the ribs.
- Step 5: Brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce and, if desired, finish them under the broiler or on a grill for 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce.
- Step 6: Serve the ribs hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Tips & Variations
- For extra smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the seasoning mix.
- You can swap barbecue sauce for a spicy buffalo sauce for a different twist.
- Adding a small amount of apple cider vinegar to the cooking liquid enhances tenderness and flavor.
- If you prefer crispy edges, finish the ribs under a high-heat broiler or on a hot grill after cooking.
Storage
Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a little water or sauce to keep them moist. You can also freeze cooked ribs for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use baby back ribs or spare ribs for this recipe?
Yes, both baby back ribs and spare ribs work well. Adjust cooking time slightly—baby back ribs may need less time, around 20 to 25 minutes.
Do I need to brown the ribs before cooking in the Instant Pot?
It’s not necessary, but browning the ribs in a hot pan before pressure cooking can add extra flavor and color.
PrintSucculent Instant Pot Ribs Recipe
Tender and flavorful ribs cooked to perfection in an Instant Pot, then brushed with a rich barbecue sauce for a quick and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Ribs
- 2–3 pounds pork ribs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Barbecue Sauce
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
- Season the Ribs: Combine salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a small bowl. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs to ensure they are well seasoned.
- Cook in the Instant Pot: Place the seasoned ribs in the Instant Pot and add 1 cup of water or broth. Seal the lid and set the pot to ‘Pressure Cook’ on high for 25 minutes to tenderize the ribs thoroughly.
- Release Pressure: Once the cooking cycle completes, allow a natural pressure release for 10 minutes before carefully performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
- Brush with Barbecue Sauce: Remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and place them on a serving platter. Generously brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce to add moisture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the ribs hot with additional barbecue sauce on the side, enjoyed with your favorite sides.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate the ribs in the spice rub overnight before cooking.
- To add a crispy texture, broil the ribs for 3-5 minutes after brushing with sauce.
- You can substitute water with apple juice or broth for more flavor during cooking.
- Adjust seasoning quantities to preference.
Keywords: Instant Pot ribs, pressure cooker ribs, barbecue ribs, quick ribs recipe

