Homemade Instant Pot Spare Ribs Recipe
Looking for a finger-licking good dinner that comes together in a fraction of the time traditional recipes require? You’ve come to the right place! These Homemade Instant Pot Spare Ribs are incredibly tender, bursting with flavor, and perfect for any night of the week. Plus, the Instant Pot does all the hard work so you can enjoy your delicious meal without the hassle.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Cooking: No need to wait all day; these ribs are ready in under two hours.
- Fall-off-the-Bone Tenderness: The pressure cooking process makes the meat incredibly tender.
- Flavor Packed: A rich mix of spices and a tasty sauce elevates the dish to meal-worthy perfection.
- Easy Cleanup: Cooking them in the Instant Pot means less mess and fewer dishes.
- Versatile: Enjoy them on their own, with sides, or as part of a BBQ spread!
Ingredients
- Spare ribs: The star of the show! Look for ribs with nice marbling for maximum flavor.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning the meat. You can adjust based on your taste.
- Black pepper: Adds a nice pinch of heat.
- Garlic powder: For that savory, aromatic flavor.
- Onion powder: Complements the spices beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness without needing a grill.
- BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite. You can make it homemade or store-bought.
- Apple cider vinegar: Adds tanginess and tenderizes the meat.
- Water: Helps create steam in the Instant Pot.
Full measurements are in the recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
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Prep the Ribs: Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn’t been done already. This allows the flavors to penetrate better.
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Season: In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this spice mixture all over the ribs.
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Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot: Place the ribs upright in the Instant Pot. Add apple cider vinegar and water at the bottom, making sure the ribs are leaned against each other to stay in place.
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Pressure Cook: Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes. Make sure the valve is sealed!
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Release Pressure: Once the cooking time is up, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
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Glaze with BBQ Sauce: Carefully remove the ribs and place them on a foil-lined baking tray. Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce all over them.
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Broil (Optional): For a caramelized finish, broil the ribs for about 5-7 minutes in your oven. Keep an eye on them—it can go from nice to burnt quickly!
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Serve & Enjoy: Slice the ribs into portions and serve with more BBQ sauce if desired!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
- For Extra Flavor: Marinate the ribs overnight after seasoning for an even richer taste.
- Avoid Overcooking: Stick to 25 minutes for tender ribs. Cooking them too long can make them fall apart too easily.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: If you want to be precise, ribs are safely cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
- Resting Time Matters: Let them sit for a few minutes after cooking; it helps the flavors settle.
- Sauce Variations: Try different BBQ sauces or even a spicy glaze for a kick!
How to Serve
Serve these scrumptious ribs alongside classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. You can also pile them on top of rice for a sticky and delightful meal. And of course, don’t forget extra BBQ sauce for dipping!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Fridge Storage: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: They freeze well too! Wrap in foil or a freezer-safe bag and keep them for up to 3 months.
- Reheating Tips: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave them if you’re in a hurry; just be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
FAQs
Can I use baby back ribs instead of spare ribs?
Absolutely! Baby back ribs will work just as well, although they might require slightly less cooking time due to being more tender.
Can I make these ribs in a slow cooker instead?
Yes! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just follow the same seasoning and saucing steps.
What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?
You can substitute it with white vinegar, but the flavor will be slightly different. Lemon juice works too for a fresh twist!
Do I have to broil the ribs after cooking?
Not at all! Broiling gives them a nice glaze, but you can enjoy them straight from the Instant Pot if you prefer.
Enjoy making these lip-smacking Instant Pot Spare Ribs—you’ll be the favorite chef in no time!
Instant Pot Spare Ribs
Ingredients
Method
- Start by removing the membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn't been done already.
- In a small bowl, mix together salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Rub this spice mixture all over the ribs.
- Place the ribs upright in the Instant Pot.
- Add apple cider vinegar and water at the bottom.
- Lock the lid in place and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes.
- Allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes, then do a quick release to let out any remaining steam.
- Carefully remove the ribs and place them on a foil-lined baking tray.
- Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce all over them.
- Optional: Broil the ribs for about 5-7 minutes in your oven for a caramelized finish.
- Slice the ribs into portions and serve with more BBQ sauce if desired.