This Baby Back Ribs Instant Pot recipe is the fastest way to get fall-off-the-bone, flavor-packed ribs at home — tender, juicy, and ready in under an hour with minimal effort.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time25 minutesmins
Total Time40 minutesmins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: baby back ribs, baby back ribs instant pot recipe, instant pot baby back ribs, pork ribs
Servings: 4Servings
Author: Cynthia Rusincovitch
Ingredients
2.5-3lbsBaby Back Ribs
1cupWater
2tbspApple Cider Vinegar
1tspLiquid Smoke
½cupBBQ Saucefor broiling
Dry Rub
½tspCayenne Pepper
1tspPaprika
1tspSmoked Paprika
2tbspBrown Sugar
1tspDry Thyme
1tspOnion Powder
1tspGarlic Powder
½tspGround Black Pepper
½tspSalt
Instructions
Prepare the dry rub by mixing all the spices in a small bowl.
Before applying the dry rub, remove the thin silver membrane from the back of the ribs. This allows the seasoning to penetrate better and ensures tender ribs.
Rub the spice blend all over the ribs, making sure they’re fully coated. If you need more, mix up a little extra to finish the job.
Add a cup of water, apple cider vinegar, and liquid smoke to the Instant Pot. Arrange the trivet inside the pot and the pork ribs over it.
Lock the lid and cook on high pressure for 23 minutes. Do a gentle quick release when the time is up.
Move the ribs to a baking sheet and brush with about ½ cup of BBQ sauce. Broil for 2–3 minutes until the top is caramelized and golden.
Plate the ribs and offer extra BBQ sauce on the side—perfect for anyone who likes theirs a little saucier.