I absolutely love this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe because it delivers fall-off-the-bone tenderness in a fraction of the time it usually takes to slow-cook ribs. When I first tried it, I was amazed how juicy and flavorful the ribs turned out with just a few simple ingredients and a quick spice rub. You’ll find that using the Instant Pot not only saves you time but also seals in all the rich, meaty flavors perfectly.
This recipe is special for those busy weeknights or anytime you crave comfort food without dragging out the cooking process. Plus, the optional broiling step gives the ribs a lovely crispy bark that makes every bite feel indulgent and restaurant-worthy. If you ve been hesitant about cooking beef ribs at home, this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe will make you a believer fast.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Time-Saving: Pressure cooking reduces rib-cooking time dramatically without sacrificing tenderness.
- Simple Ingredients: Just a few pantry staples bring big, bold flavors to life.
- Customizable Finish: Broiling adds a crispy, caramelized bark that you can brush with your favorite BBQ sauce.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether a weeknight meal or weekend gathering, these ribs always impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe plays an important role, balancing flavorful spice and simplicity for a perfect rib experience. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to shop for and prepare with minimal fuss.
- Beef back ribs: Choose ribs cut into 2-bone pieces for easy portioning and even cooking.
- Fine sea salt: Enhances natural flavors without overpowering the beef.
- Fresh ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- Ancho chili powder: Gives a smoky, slightly sweet kick that complements the beef beautifully.
- Water: Needed in the Instant Pot to create steam for pressure cooking the ribs perfectly tender.
Variations
I love to make this recipe my own depending on what s in the pantry or the occasion-feel free to customize it so it suits your taste perfectly!
- BBQ Glaze: Adding a brush of your favorite BBQ sauce right before broiling creates a sweet and tangy crust that my family goes crazy for.
- Spice Swap: If you don t have Ancho chili powder, smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne work well as a substitute for that smoky depth.
- Slow Cooker Option: I ve tried this in a slow cooker with great results, but it takes much longer and doesn t get the same crispy finish without broiling.
- Diet-Friendly: Skip the broil step and serve with a low-carb side for a hearty, protein-packed meal that fits keto or paleo lifestyles.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Season Your Ribs Just Right
Start by mixing the salt, black pepper, and Ancho chili powder in a small bowl to create your spice rub. Sprinkle this blend evenly over both sides of your ribs-don t be shy here, generous seasoning makes all the difference. Trust me, seasoning upfront ensures every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 2: Set Up Your Instant Pot for Success
Pour half a cup of water into your Instant Pot. This little bit of liquid is what creates the steam necessary for pressure cooking. Now loosely stack the ribs inside the pot, bone side down-stacking too tightly can affect the cooking, so keep a bit of space between them.
Step 3: Pressure Cook and Let It Rest
Seal the Instant Pot and set it to cook at high pressure for 25 minutes. After the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes. I discovered that rushing this step with a quick release leaves ribs a bit tougher, so be patient-it s worth it!
Step 4: Broil for an Irresistible Finish (Optional)
If you have a few extra minutes, place the ribs on a rimmed baking sheet, bone side down, and broil on high for about 5 minutes. You’ll get a crispy bark and gorgeous browning that really elevates the dish. Just watch closely since broilers can be unpredictable-don t let them burn!
Pro Tips for Making Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
- Don t Skip the Natural Release: I learned the hard way that quick-releasing the pressure immediately can dry out the ribs.
- Use a Foil Liner for Broiling: This makes cleanup a breeze, especially when you add BBQ sauce for that glaze.
- Even Pieces Help Cooking: Keeping ribs in 2-bone segments makes portion control and cooking more consistent.
- Watch Your Broiler Closely: Since broilers vary, stay nearby and check often to prevent burning the perfect bark.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
I love topping these ribs with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro to add a touch of bright color and freshness. Sometimes, a wedge of lime served on the side lifts the flavors wonderfully, especially if you re using a smoky chili rub.
Side Dishes
My go-to sides are creamy mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes to complement the rich meat, along with a crisp green salad to balance the plate. Cornbread or garlic buttered naan are fantastic for soaking up all the juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, I ve served these ribs family-style on a large wooden board with bowls of pickles, sliced jalapeños, and various dipping sauces-trust me, it s a crowd-pleaser that sparks conversation around the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually transfer leftover ribs to an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. The meat actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld, making for an easy reheated lunch or dinner.
Freezing
Freezing cooked beef ribs works wonderfully – just wrap each portion tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you want some, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, I prefer wrapping ribs in foil and warming them in a 300°F oven for about 15-20 minutes. This heats them evenly without drying out the meat, preserving that tender, juicy texture you fell in love with.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of beef ribs for this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe?
Yes, you can use short ribs or plate ribs, but cooking times may vary slightly. Beef back ribs are preferred for their nice size and meatiness relative to bone, and they cook beautifully under pressure to tender perfection.
-
Do I have to broil the ribs after pressure cooking?
Not at all. The ribs are already tender and juicy straight from the Instant Pot. The broiling step is optional but highly recommended if you want that crave-worthy crispy outer bark. If you re in a rush, you can skip it without losing the tender texture.
-
Can I add BBQ sauce during cooking?
I suggest brushing BBQ sauce on the ribs right before broiling, rather than during the pressure cooking process, to avoid burning or overly sweet flavor. This method keeps the sauce fresh-tasting and perfectly caramelized.
-
How do I know when the ribs are done?
After the pressure cooking and natural release, the meat should be extremely tender and easily pull away from the bone. If your ribs feel tough, you can seal the pot back up and pressure cook for another 5 minutes.
Final Thoughts
I can t recommend this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe enough for anyone looking to make restaurant-quality ribs at home without the fuss. It s quick, simple, and always delivers rich, tender beef packed with flavor. Next time you want a comforting meal that you can make ahead and easily reheat, give this recipe a go-you ll be glad you did!
Print
Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Beef Ribs recipe delivers tender, flavorful ribs that are perfectly cooked using pressure cooking and finished with a crispy broil. The ribs are seasoned with a simple spice rub of sea salt, black pepper, and Ancho chili powder, then pressure cooked to fall-off-the-bone tenderness. An optional broiling step adds a delicious, caramelized bark to the ribs, making them a perfect comforting meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Beef Ribs
- 7 to 8 bones of beef back ribs (about 3 pounds), cut into 2-bone pieces
Spice Rub
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Ancho chili powder
Others
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the spice rub and season the ribs: In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Ancho chili powder. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over both sides of the beef ribs to create a flavorful rub.
- Place ribs in the Instant Pot: Pour ½ cup of water into the Instant Pot or pressure cooker. Arrange the seasoned ribs loosely inside the pot, placing them bone side down to ensure even cooking.
- Pressure cook the ribs: Seal the Instant Pot and select high pressure. Cook the ribs for 25 minutes. After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes until the valve drops. If any pressure remains, perform a quick release to fully depressurize.
- Broil the ribs (optional): Transfer the ribs bone side down onto a rimmed baking sheet. Place under a preheated broiler set to high and broil for about 5 minutes or until the ribs develop a crackling, browned crust. Keep a close watch to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the ribs from the broiler and serve immediately. For extra flavor, brush with BBQ sauce before broiling if desired.
Notes
- A rack of beef back ribs typically has 7 bones. When cutting into 2-bone pieces, it’s okay if one piece ends up with just 1 bone.
- The ribs are tender and flavorful straight from the Instant Pot, but broiling adds a crispy, caramelized crust for a better texture.
- If you want to add sauce, brush BBQ sauce on the ribs right before broiling for a sticky, flavorful finish.
- Keep an eye on the ribs during broiling as broiler heat intensity varies widely between ovens.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bones
- Calories: 766
- Sugar: 0.1g
- Sodium: 730.9mg
- Fat: 65.7g
- Saturated Fat: 26g
- Unsaturated Fat: 39.7g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 2.3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 182.5mg
