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Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

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  • Author: Lily Carter
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pressure Cooking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy fall-off-the-bone baby back ribs in under an hour! This Instant Pot recipe delivers tender, juicy ribs with a smoky-sweet flavor, finished with a caramelized barbecue glaze under the broiler. Perfect for a quick and satisfying barbecue fix!


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 rack baby back ribs (about 2 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp paprika (smoked or regular)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup chicken broth or apple juice
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce

Instructions

  • Prep the Ribs:

    • Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs by loosening it with a knife and pulling it off with a paper towel.
  • Season the Ribs:

    • In a bowl, mix brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using).
    • Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of the ribs.
  • Add Liquid to the Instant Pot:

    • Pour the chicken broth (or apple juice) and apple cider vinegar into the Instant Pot.
    • Place the trivet inside.
  • Pressure Cook:

    • Arrange the ribs in a standing position around the pot.
    • Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
    • Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.
  • Broil for a Caramelized Finish:

    • Preheat your broiler to high.
    • Transfer the ribs to a baking sheet and brush generously with barbecue sauce.
    • Broil for 5 minutes until slightly charred and caramelized.
  • Serve and Enjoy:

    • Let the ribs rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve with extra barbecue sauce.

Notes

  • For extra smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or add 1 tsp liquid smoke to the cooking liquid.
  • For a spicier kick: Increase the cayenne pepper or use a spicy barbecue sauce.
  • For spare ribs: Increase the pressure cooking time to 30 minutes.
  • Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 25 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 35 g