Instant Pot Ribs

These tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs are made easy with the Instant Pot! A flavorful blend of apple juice, vinegar, and BBQ sauce infuses the meat with smoky-sweet flavor before finishing under the broiler for that perfect caramelized glaze.

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Ingredients

• 3 lb baby back ribs (or pork loin ribs*)
• 6 cups apple juice
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar (or apple cider)
• ½ tsp liquid smoke (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• 1 Tbsp seasoning salt (such as Johnny’s or Lawry’s)
• 2 Tbsp BBQ dry rub
• ⅔ cup BBQ sauce (sweet or homemade), divided

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Instructions

1. Prep the ribs: Pat ribs dry with paper towels. Rub seasoning salt and BBQ dry rub on both sides of the rack.
2. Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour apple juice, vinegar, liquid smoke (if using), and ⅓ cup BBQ sauce into the Instant Pot.
3. Cook the ribs: Coil the rack of ribs inside the pot, bone-side facing inward. Make sure the ribs are partially submerged. Lock the lid and cook on High Pressure for 25 minutes, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Manually release any remaining pressure.
4. Finish in the oven: Carefully transfer ribs onto a rimmed baking sheet lined with a wire rack, meat side up. Brush generously with the remaining ⅓ cup BBQ sauce. Broil in the center of the oven on High for 4–5 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and caramelized.
5. Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let ribs rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fall-off-the-bone tender in just 25 minutes of cooking.
• Big smoky BBQ flavor without needing a grill.
• Perfect for weeknights or gatherings—easy prep, big results.
• Customizable with your favorite rubs and sauces.

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Tips

• Remove the membrane on the back of the ribs for the best texture.
• Use two sets of tongs when transferring ribs to prevent them from falling apart.
• Broil just until the sauce is sticky—watch closely to avoid burning.
• Make sure the ribs fit by coiling them inside the Instant Pot.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Different liquids: Swap apple juice for beer, cola, or broth for a unique flavor.
• Sauce options: Use spicy BBQ sauce, mustard-based sauce, or even teriyaki glaze.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the rub for extra heat.
• No Instant Pot? Cook in a slow cooker on low for 6–7 hours, then broil as directed.

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FAQs

Can I use spare ribs instead of baby back ribs?
Yes, but increase the cooking time to about 30–35 minutes in the Instant Pot.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the ribs in the Instant Pot, store in the fridge, and broil with sauce just before serving.

Do I need liquid smoke?
No, but it adds a nice smoky flavor without a grill.

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Serving Suggestions

• Classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
• A light salad or grilled vegetables for balance.
• Potato salad or mac and cheese for a hearty BBQ plate.
• Extra warm BBQ sauce on the side for dipping.