Instant Pot Ribs show you don’t need a smoker to enjoy tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs. Using either baby back or spare ribs and a sweet-savory dry rub, this easy Instant Pot recipe yields juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort.
Fall-Apart Tender Instant Pot Ribs
If you assumed ribs require a grill or long smoking sessions, think again. These Instant Pot Ribs capture everything you love about classic barbecue—tender, juicy meat and a sticky, caramelized finish—without hours of hands-on cooking. The Instant Pot softens the meat quickly while a balanced dry rub and a flavorful cooking liquid build deep flavor.
This method works whether you choose baby back ribs (tender and smaller) or spare ribs (meatier and heartier). The pressure cooker infuses the pork with bright, subtly sweet notes—especially if you use apple juice—and a touch of liquid smoke can mimic that smoked flavor if desired.
For the finish, brush the ribs with barbecue sauce and briefly broil to develop a glossy, slightly crisp crust. The result is tender ribs that pull clean from the bone and look like they spent all day on a smoker, but take less than an hour of actual time.
Happy cooking! xo Kristen
Notes on Ingredients
- Ribs: Use baby back ribs or spare ribs. Baby back ribs are smaller and usually more tender; spare ribs have more meat and a richer chew. If you want beef ribs, follow a short rib recipe designed for them.
- Seasoning Rub: A simple homemade rub of brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and salt creates a smoky, sweet, and savory crust. Add a pinch of cayenne for heat or use seasoned salt mixed with brown sugar for an easy shortcut.
- Apple Juice: Apple juice is recommended for the cooking liquid; it lends a subtle sweetness and bright note that pairs beautifully with pork. Water, beer, or stock can be used instead if needed.
- Liquid Smoke: Optional, but helpful if you want a hint of smoky flavor without a smoker. It’s fine to omit—the ribs will still be delicious.
- BBQ Sauce: Finish the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce if you like them glazed and caramelized under the broiler.
How To Make Instant Pot Ribs
If you’re new to pressure cooking, review your Instant Pot’s instructions for safety and the functions for best results. The full ingredient amounts and detailed steps are shown in the recipe card below.
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour the apple juice and liquid smoke (if using) into the inner pot. Place a trivet or rack inside so the ribs sit above the liquid and don’t become soggy.
- Make the Dry Rub: In a small bowl combine brown sugar, onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and kosher salt until uniform.
- Remove the Membrane: Slide a knife under the thin membrane on the back of the ribs, lift to loosen, then peel the membrane away. Removing it prevents a chewy texture.
- Season the Ribs: Generously coat both sides of the ribs with the spice rub. Roll the rack into a semicircle and position it on the trivet inside the Instant Pot.
- Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure. Baby back ribs: 25 minutes. Spare ribs: 35 minutes.
- Natural Pressure Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 15 minutes (do not use a quick release). This helps keep the ribs tender and moist.
- Broil (Optional): Transfer the cooked ribs to a broiler pan, brush with barbecue sauce, and broil 3–4 minutes per side until sauce is caramelized and slightly crisp. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Serve: Let the ribs rest 10 minutes, then cut into portions or serve whole. Offer extra BBQ sauce and plenty of napkins. Classic sides include baked beans and potato salad.
Want to Double the Recipe?
How To Make Two Racks of Ribs at Once
You can pressure cook two racks at the same time. Use the same amount of liquid but double the spice rub. Nestle both racks on the trivet rolled together; keep the cooking time unchanged.
More Instant Pot Pork Recipes
- Instant Pot Carnitas
- Instant Pot Pork Chops
- Instant Pot Pork Tenderloin
- Instant Pot Pork and Sauerkraut
- Instant Pot Sausage and Peppers
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Instant Pot Ribs
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Ingredients
- 1½ cups apple juice
- ½ teaspoon liquid smoke, optional
- 1 rack ribs (spare ribs or baby back ribs)
- ¼ cup light or dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
- ½ cup barbecue sauce
Instructions
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Place a trivet into the inner pot. Pour in 1½ cups apple juice and ½ teaspoon liquid smoke, if using.
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In a small bowl, combine ¼ cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 2 teaspoons smoked paprika, and 1½ teaspoons kosher salt.
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Remove the membrane from the back of the rack by sliding a knife under it, lifting to loosen, and peeling it away.
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Generously rub the spice blend over the ribs. Roll the rack into a semicircle and place on the trivet. Seal the lid.
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Cook on High Pressure: Baby back ribs 25 minutes; Spare ribs 35 minutes. Use the Manual or Pressure Cook setting and adjust time accordingly.
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Allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 15 minutes after cooking. Do not quick release.
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Remove the ribs and place on a broiler pan or cutting board.
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If desired, brush with barbecue sauce and broil 3–4 minutes per side until caramelized, watching closely.
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Let the ribs rest 10 minutes before serving.
Equipment
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Electric Pressure Cooker (6 or 8 quart)
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Instant Pot Rack
Notes
Simple Rub: Mix 2 tablespoons seasoned salt with ¼ cup brown sugar for a quick alternative.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat under the broiler for best texture.
Substitutions: Water, beer, or stock can replace apple juice, but apple juice adds a bright, fruity note.
Nutrition
Nutrition information is an approximation.
Originally shared in 2019 and updated in 2025.