Instant Pot BBQ Baby Back Ribs

These Instant Pot baby back ribs are irresistibly tender, bursting with flavor, and effortlessly fall off the bone.

Instructions for Making Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

The full recipe is provided below, but here’s a quick summary of what you’ll be doing:

Ingredients for Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

Here are the ingredients you'll need to prepare these simple and delicious Instant Pot baby back ribs:

• For the rub: Make the flavorful rub with kosher salt, brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
• Ribs: A rack of baby back ribs should make about four servings. 
• Broth: Use store-bought beef broth or make your own at home. 
• Barbecue sauce: Use store-bought barbecue sauce or make your own at home.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baby Back Ribs in the Instant Pot

Here's a quick overview of the process for making flavorful Instant Pot baby back ribs:

1. Create the spice rub, cut the rack into sections, and coat the ribs with the seasoning mixture.
2. Add broth to the Instant Pot, then place the ribs inside. Secure the lid.
3. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure and cook for 30 minutes.
4. Wait 10 to 15 minutes for the pressure to build up.
5. Perform a quick release to let out the steam, then remove the lid.
6. Transfer the ribs to a baking sheet and generously apply barbecue sauce.
7. Bake in the oven until the meat easily separates from the bone.

Best Sides to Serve with Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

Check out our selection of Scrumptious Side Dishes for Ribs to inspire your next meal. Here are some of the most popular options you can try:

• Southern Dill Potato Salad 
• Corn Fritters 
• Chef John's Classic Macaroni Salad 

How to Store Leftover Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

To store leftover ribs, place them in an airtight container or wrap them securely in plastic wrap or foil. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply use a microwave or stovetop.

Dinogo Community’s Tips and Reviews

"This recipe is a staple in our weekly dinners," says Deborah Poole. "I love how convenient the Instant Pot makes this. The first time I tried it, I didn’t have all the ingredients for the rub, so I substituted with McCormick Grill Mates Smokehouse Maple. It simplified the recipe even more, and I’ve kept using it ever since."

"Fantastic!" praises dlb1962. "I’ve made this countless times! The ribs are always tender and juicy. Instead of using 1 cup of beef broth, I opt for apple juice. It reduces the saltiness while adding a nice touch of sweetness."

"This is by far the best ‘quick’ rib recipe I’ve found," says Dolores Cruz. "No need for marinating—just a simple rub, a cup of beef broth, and BBQ sauce, and you get fall-off-the-bone ribs in the Instant Pot."

Contributions by Corey Williams

Ingredients List

• 2 tablespoons kosher salt

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon chili powder

• 1 tablespoon paprika

• 2 teaspoons garlic powder

• 1 ½ teaspoons cayenne pepper

• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

• 1 rack baby back pork ribs

• 1 cup beef broth

• ¼ cup barbeque sauce, or as needed

Instructions

Place the ribs in the preheated oven and bake for 7 minutes. Flip the ribs over and continue baking until the meat easily pulls away from the bone, about 7 more minutes. To check doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the center; it should read 145°F (63°C).

Nutritional Information (per serving)