Tender instant pot ribs are pressure cooked for 24 minutes into flavorful, smokey, finger-licking pork ribs that are melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

Why this recipe works

This recipe for instant pot ribs uses baby back ribs that have been seasoned with a flavor-packed wet rub consisting of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, and liquid smoke that’s popped into the pressure cooker until they’re fall-apart tender. Don’t forget to smother them in your favorite barbecue sauce to top it all off.

We’ve shown you how to cook instant pot beef ribs and instant pot beef short ribs, but today is the day we welcome pork back ribs to the arsenal. Instant pot pork ribs, or baby back ribs, are incredibly tender when cooked right and are among some of our favorite cuts of pork alongside bacon of course.

slab of Instant Pot Ribs on cutting board

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

PORK – We are using pork baby back ribs in this recipe, also known as pork back ribs. Note that if you end up using a different cut of ribs, the cook time may differ from what’s listed in this recipe.

ADDITIONS – You can use water in place of the apple cider vinegar if desired. The apple cider vinegar will help tenderize the meat as it pressure cooks. The liquid smoke will add a smokey flavor to the ribs, just like they were cooked straight in the smoker. However, you can omit it if you can’t seem to find it in stores – but I promise it is entirely worth it!

How to Make Instant Pot Ribs

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

Rinse ribs and pat dry with paper towels.
In a medium bowl, combine all dry ingredients.
Add liquid smoke and olive oil to form a wet rub.
Use gloved hands to rub mixture on all areas, top and bottom, of the rib.
Pour apple cider vinegar and water into the Instant Pot and put rack in place.
Place entire rack of ribs into the Instant Pot, curving them to fit.
Place lid on pot and cook on high pressure for 24 minutes using a natural release.
Slather on barbecue sauce of your choice and cut into portions.

EXPERT TIP – When cutting the ribs into portions, use the sharpest knife you have as the meat will be very tender. A sharp knife will make it easier to cut through without actually knocking the meat off the bones.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover baby back ribs in an air-tight container kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat ribs?

To reheat ribs without drying them out, preheat the oven to 250-275F. Place the ribs in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Warm the ribs in the oven for 25-30 minutes. Feel free to add extra barbecue sauce to the ribs before placing them in the oven to reheat.

Serving Suggestions

Serve instant pot ribs with coleslaw, corn on the cob, baked potatoes, mac and cheese, cornbread, or baked beans on the side. Have a few napkins handy for cleaning up messy hands and faces!

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This post was originally published here on September 7, 2022.