These quick and easy Instant Pot baby back ribs are really tender and delicious. The cinnamon and rosemary in the dry rub complements the flavors in our savory Dark Cherry BBQ Sauce, but the flavors pair well with just about any barbecue sauce you prefer.
How to Make Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs
I’ll be honest, I didn’t care for the Instant Pot until recently. My wife converted me by pointing out that I could have ribs fast whenever I wanted them. If that isn’t the most convincing argument in the world, I don’t know what is.
When making ribs (or any meat) in the Instant Pot, it’s important that you have an adequate amount of liquid to keep the meat moist. Also, if you ever find that the meat you cook in the IP is a little too tough, you can allow time for a natural release instead of using the quick release function. I’ve found that helps for chicken and other meats that you plan on shredding.
But enough about that, let’s get to these easy, tasty Instant Pot baby back ribs.
Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs
These quick and easy Instant Pot baby back ribs are really tender and delicious. The cinnamon and rosemary in the dry rub really bring out the flavor of the meat.
Ingredients
Dry Rub Ingredients
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- salt and black pepper to taste
Other Ingredients
- 3 lbs baby back ribs
- 1 c beef stock or water
- BBQ sauce of choice
Instructions
-
Combine ingredients for the dry rub in a small bowl and stir to combine. Set aside.
-
Carefully remove membrane from back of baby back ribs with a sharp knife, if necessary. Cut the ribs into 3 or 4 equal-sized parts and work the dry rub into each section on both sides. Set aside.
-
Add beef broth or water to Instant Pot and insert the metal rack. Place the seasoned ribs on their sides on top of the insert. (Do not stack them flat on top of each other).
-
Lock the Instant Pot lid into place and flip the pressure valve to “Sealing.” Set the “Manual” setting to high for 30 minutes.
-
Meanwhile, line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil and set aside.
-
Once cooking time is complete, do a quick release (QR) by flipping the sealing valve to the “Venting” position. Unlock and remove the Instant Pot lid and carefully transfer ribs to prepared baking sheet. Brush ribs with a generous amount of BBQ sauce on each side.
-
Pre-heat broiler to high and broil the ribs for 3-5 minutes or until nicely browned. Remove from oven and cool slightly before cutting into individual portions. Serve immediately with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
Recipe Notes
Tip: Place the ribs under a hot broiler after cooking in the Instant Pot for a mouth-watering, caramelized crust.
