Instant Pot Ribs

Make tender, fall-off-the-bone Instant Pot ribs in under an hour with this easy recipe. Pressure cooked with apple juice and finished under the broiler for a rich, caramelized BBQ glaze, these baby back ribs are perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or game day. Learn how to make juicy pork ribs using simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions for the best results every time.

These tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs are packed with flavor and ready in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot. Finished under the broiler for that perfect caramelized BBQ crust.

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)
• 1 tbsp seasoning salt (such as Johnny’s or Lawry’s)
• 2 tbsp BBQ dry rub
• ⅔ cup BBQ sauce (sweet or homemade), divided

Instructions

1. Prep the Ribs
   Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel. Rub seasoning salt and BBQ dry rub evenly over both sides.
2. Set Up the Instant Pot
   In the Instant Pot, add apple juice, vinegar, liquid smoke (if using), and ⅓ cup of BBQ sauce. Coil the ribs inside the pot with the bone side facing inward. Ensure ribs are partially submerged.
3. Pressure Cook
   Seal the lid and cook on High Pressure for 25 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural release, then manually release any remaining pressure.
4. Finish in the Oven
   Carefully remove the ribs using tongs and place them meat-side up on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Brush with the remaining ⅓ cup of BBQ sauce.
5. Broil
   Broil in the center of the oven on high for 4–5 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and slightly caramelized.
6. Rest & Serve
   Let the ribs rest for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve with additional BBQ sauce, if desired.

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Tips

• Peel the membrane from the back of the ribs for extra tenderness.
• Use a wire rack during broiling to allow heat to circulate and prevent sogginess.
• Adjust broiling time carefully—watch closely to avoid burning the sauce.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Swap apple juice for pineapple juice for a tropical twist.
• Use spicy BBQ sauce for a kick or mix in hot sauce.
• No liquid smoke? Try a smoked paprika rub to replicate that smoky flavor.

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FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, pressure cook the ribs, refrigerate, then broil just before serving.

Can I freeze cooked ribs?
Absolutely. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat and broil before serving.

Do I have to broil them?
Broiling adds texture and flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
• Serve alongside grilled corn, mac and cheese, or a fresh green salad.
• Great for game day, summer cookouts, or a cozy dinner.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy with the Instant Pot
• Juicy, tender ribs with rich flavor
• Customizable to your taste with different rubs and sauces
• Crowd-pleaser for any occasion