Instant Pot BBQ Spare Ribs Recipe: Pressure-Cooked Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender

Achieving fall-off-the-bone spare ribs in an Instant Pot is a game-changer for home cooks. This method delivers tender results without the long smoke times of traditional BBQ.

With a simple rub and pressure cooking, you’ll get ribs that are juicy, flavorful, and ready in a fraction of the time. The Instant Pot locks in moisture while infusing every bite with smoky barbecue essence.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Bbq Spare Ribs

Everything you need for tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs in your Instant Pot.

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The ribs are the star—look for full spare rib racks (not baby back) with good marbling. Costco or Sam’s Club offer great bulk options, but any supermarket butcher section works. If the membrane is still on the back, remove it (worth the extra minute). For the BBQ sauce, Sweet Baby Ray’s or Stubb’s are reliable choices, but homemade works too. The dry rub can be adjusted to taste—more brown sugar for sweetness, extra smoked paprika for depth.

No spare ribs? Baby back ribs work but cook faster—reduce pressure time by 5 minutes. Out of BBQ sauce? Ketchup mixed with molasses and spices in a pinch. For liquid smoke, a dash of chipotle powder adds similar smokiness. If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar works (though the flavor is sharper). The broth can be swapped for water plus bouillon, but broth adds more depth.

Ribs taste even better the next day once flavors meld. Store cooked ribs in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge or freeze for 3 months. Reheat in the oven or Instant Pot with a splash of broth to keep them moist.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Instant Pot BBQ Spare Ribs

Master the pressure cooker method for perfectly tender ribs with deep flavor in under an hour.

Step 1: Season the Ribs Thoroughly

Start by patting the 3 lb Pork Spare Ribs completely dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine the 0.25 cup BBQ Dry Rub, 0.25 cup Brown Sugar, 1 tbsp Smoked Paprika, 1 tbsp Garlic Powder, 1 tbsp Onion Powder, 1 tbsp Salt, and 1 tsp Black Pepper.

Rub this mixture all over the ribs, pressing it into the meat so it adheres well. I make sure to coat every surface, including the bone side. This creates a flavorful crust and ensures every bite is well-seasoned. Let the ribs sit for 10 minutes while you prepare the Instant Pot.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs for Maximum Flavor

Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the 2 tbsp Olive Oil. When the oil is hot and shimmering, add the ribs in batches, meat-side down. Sear for 3-4 minutes until the surface develops a deep, golden brown crust.

Don’t overcrowd the pot—this prevents proper browning and steams the ribs instead. Once browned, remove the ribs and set them aside. This searing step builds a rich fond at the bottom of the pot, which will deepen the flavor of your cooking liquid.

Step 3: Pressure Cook to Tender Perfection

Pour the 1 cup Chicken Broth and 0.25 cup Apple Cider Vinegar into the Instant Pot, then add the 1 tsp Liquid Smoke. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the ribs to the pot, stacking them if necessary to fit.

Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure. The ribs should be fork-tender but not falling apart.

Step 4: Finish with BBQ Sauce

Carefully remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and place them on a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush both sides generously with 1.5 cups BBQ Sauce. For extra caramelization, you can broil them in the oven for 3-5 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and slightly charred.

Alternatively, you can return the sauced ribs to the Instant Pot on the sauté function for 3-4 minutes to let the sauce thicken and cling to the meat. Either method works, but the broiler gives the best texture. Serve immediately while hot and saucy.

Essential Equipment for instant pot bbq spare ribs

Instant Pot Choice

For ribs, I recommend a 6-quart Instant Pot Duo—it’s the perfect size for a 3 lb rack and has reliable pressure control. The Duo model includes the sauté function, which is essential for searing the ribs before pressure cooking. 🔥

Searing Tools

Use tongs to handle the ribs during searing to avoid piercing the meat. A wooden spoon helps scrape up the fond without scratching your pot. I keep a silicone spatula handy for stirring the sauce later.

Pressure Cooking Accessories

A trivet elevates the ribs above the liquid, preventing them from stewing. If your pot didn’t include one, any heatproof rack works. I also use a steamer basket for smaller rib sections to maximize space.

Broiling Setup

For the final saucing step, line a baking sheet with heavy-duty foil to catch drips. A pastry brush ensures even coverage with the BBQ sauce. If broiling, position the oven rack 6 inches from the heat source.

Cleanup Help

Instant Pots with dishwasher-safe inner pots save time after cooking. I also keep degreaser spray on hand for stubborn fond. A microfiber cloth works well for wiping down the exterior.

Optional Extras

For extra smokiness, add a stovetop smoker to your setup. I also love using hickory wood chips in a smoker box for a live-fire feel. These aren’t essential but elevate the results. ✨