If you’re craving tender, flavorful ribs without spending hours at the grill or smoker, this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe is your new best friend. It captures all the smoky, savory goodness you want in beef ribs, but with the convenience of pressure cooking that cuts down the time drastically. The ribs come out irresistibly juicy, with a beautiful caramelized finish if you opt for the broiling step. Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering, these beef ribs hit all the right notes—fall-off-the-bone tender, richly seasoned, and perfectly sauced.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a role in balancing the savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors that make this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe so satisfying. They also give the dish its enticing color and texture, making every bite a treat.
- 3 pounds beef back ribs or short ribs: Choose well-marbled ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the ribs to lock in juices and create a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the beef and seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth to the spice rub.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings smoky warmth without the need for a smoker.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides a punch of savory garlic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and aromatic richness.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Gives a gentle kick of heat if you like a bit of spice.
- 1 cup beef broth: Creates steam in the Instant Pot and infuses the ribs with meaty goodness.
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving): Adds tangy, sweet, and smoky flavor that complements the ribs perfectly.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Start by removing the silver skin from the back of the ribs if it’s still attached—this helps the seasoning penetrate better and results in more tender ribs. Next, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper in a small bowl. Rub this spice mix thoroughly all over the ribs, coating every surface for maximum flavor.
Step 2: Sear for Flavor
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the olive oil. When it’s shimmering hot, sear the ribs in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until beautifully browned. This step builds a rich, caramelized crust that enhances both taste and appearance. Remove the ribs and set them aside once all are seared.
Step 3: Deglaze and Prepare to Pressure Cook
Pour the beef broth into the pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom—this adds concentrated flavor to the cooking liquid. Place the metal trivet inside the Instant Pot, then arrange the ribs on top of it. Drizzle half a cup of barbecue sauce over the ribs to infuse them during cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Ribs
Seal the lid and ensure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 35 minutes. After the time is up, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining pressure. This slow pressure release helps the ribs become ultra tender while locking in all those lip-smacking juices.
Step 5: Optional Finishing Touch
If you want sticky, caramelized ribs that make your mouth water, brush the ribs with additional barbecue sauce and pop them under the broiler for 4–5 minutes. This develops a delightful crust and adds a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the smoky meat.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley or green onions adds a lovely pop of color and freshness to balance the ribs’ richness. You could also serve with a few lemon wedges for a zesty kick that cuts through the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
Classic coleslaw is a perfect crunchy, tangy partner that contrasts beautifully with the tender, saucy beef ribs. Creamy mashed potatoes, roasted corn on the cob, or a crisp garden salad all make fantastic complements. The key is balancing textures and flavors for a complete meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the ribs into individual pieces and serve them stacked on a platter lined with parchment paper for easy sharing. Alternatively, pull the meat off the bones after cooking and pile it onto toasted buns with extra barbecue sauce for incredible beef sandwiches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, store your leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered well helps maintain moisture, so they stay succulent and flavorful for reheating.
Freezing
If you want to save these delicious ribs for later, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can freeze well for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe anytime you want a hearty, comforting meal.
Reheating
For best results, reheat ribs wrapped in foil in a 300°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can also gently reheat in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to keep them moist, but avoid overcooking to preserve tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of ribs for this recipe?
You absolutely can! While beef back ribs or short ribs work best for this recipe, you can experiment with other cuts like chuck ribs or even pork ribs. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly depending on the thickness and type of rib.
Do I need to sear the ribs before pressure cooking?
Searing isn’t absolutely necessary, but it really boosts flavor and improves the final texture by creating a caramelized crust. It’s well worth the few extra minutes for that rich taste.
Can I skip the broiling step at the end?
Yes, the broiling step is optional. Without it, the ribs will still be tender and flavorful but won’t have that sticky, caramelized glaze that makes them especially irresistible. Choose based on your preference and time.
What if I want spicier ribs?
Feel free to increase the cayenne pepper or use a spicy barbecue sauce to ramp up the heat. Adding a pinch of chipotle powder or hot sauce to the rub also adds smoky, fiery complexity to the dish.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
Instant Pot cooking times are very reliable. After the 35 minutes under high pressure and 10-minute natural release, your ribs should be fall-off-the-bone tender. If they’re not quite there, you can simply pressure cook them for a few more minutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like sinking your teeth into tender, flavorful beef ribs, and this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe makes it easier than ever to satisfy that craving. It’s a perfect blend of convenience, taste, and texture that anyone can master in their own kitchen. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make this your go-to ribs recipe for any occasion!
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Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes (plus pressure build/release time)
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Beef Ribs recipe delivers tender, flavorful ribs cooked quickly under high pressure. Perfectly seasoned and seared before pressure cooking, these ribs come out fall-off-the-bone tender and sauced with your favorite barbecue sauce, offering a delicious American main course ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Beef Ribs
- 3 pounds beef back ribs or short ribs
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Other Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ribs: Remove the silver skin from the back of the ribs if necessary to ensure tenderness and better seasoning absorption. Combine the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and optional cayenne pepper in a small bowl and thoroughly rub this spice mixture all over the ribs for even flavor.
- Sear the Ribs: Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, brown the ribs in batches for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they develop a nice crust. Remove the ribs and set them aside to preserve the browned bits on the bottom of the pot.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour the beef broth into the Instant Pot and use a wooden spoon to scrape the browned bits from the bottom. This liquid will add rich flavor and prevent the burn notice during pressure cooking.
- Pressure Cook: Place the metal trivet inside the Instant Pot and arrange the ribs on top of it. Pour half a cup of barbecue sauce evenly over the ribs. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 35 minutes to achieve tender, juicy ribs.
- Release Pressure: Let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for 10 minutes to gently finish cooking, then carefully quick-release any remaining pressure before opening the lid.
- Finish and Serve: For an extra sticky, caramelized finish, brush the ribs with additional barbecue sauce and broil in your oven for 4 to 5 minutes until bubbly and slightly charred. Serve hot with extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping.
Notes
- Both short ribs and back ribs work well; adjust cooking time slightly if using thicker short ribs.
- Swap out the barbecue sauce for a spicy chipotle or hot sauce variation to customize heat levels.
- For even more tender ribs, extend the natural pressure release time up to 15 minutes.
