Air-Fryer Pork Ribs

These air-fryer pork ribs are a fantastic solution for hot summer days when you want to avoid heating up your kitchen or standing over a hot grill. The blend of brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, cumin and garlic gives the ribs a robust flavor that caramelizes and crisps the exterior as they cook. The brush of barbecue sauce adds the perfect finishing touch.

With only 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have tender and flavorful ribs that rival the low and slow ones. Plus, using an air fryer means less mess and a faster cooking time than traditional methods.

The Best Air-Fryer Ribs

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Not all ribs are created equal. Knowing which ones to use in the air fryer is key to tender, fall-off-the-bone results. Choosing a set of well-marbled ribs with an even thickness will ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.

What cuts of pork cook exceptionally well in the air fryer?

• Baby back ribs: These are the most popular choice because of their tenderness, small size and leanness. They are cut from the loin of the pig.
• Spare ribs: Spare ribs are large and meatier, have more connective tissue and require a longer cooking time in the air fryer to become tender. You may also find St. Louis-style ribs at the butcher; these are spare ribs with the rib tips removed.
• Country-style ribs: Cut from the pig’s shoulder, these ribs have more meat than traditional ribs. They work particularly well in the air fryer, especially if you’re looking for a meatier protein to serve.

If you use a rack of ribs for this air fryer ribs recipe slice it into smaller pieces so it can fit and cook evenly. Pull off the thin membrane that covers the bony side before cutting into the desired size.

Ingredients for Air-Fryer Pork Ribs

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• Brown sugar: One tablespoon of brown sugar adds a sweet and caramelized flavor to the ribs, helping to create a nice crust as it cooks in the air fryer.
• Chili powder: Adding a touch of heat and depth, the chili powder helps to balance the sweetness of the brown sugar.
• Paprika: One teaspoon of paprika gives the ribs a mild smoky flavor and adds a beautiful color to the ribs.
• Cumin: Ground cumin introduces an earthy, slightly nutty taste that enhances the overall seasoning.
• Garlic powder: Garlic powder provides a subtle garlic flavor, adding depth without overpowering the dish.
• Ribs: Pork baby back ribs are the star of this recipe, providing tender and juicy meat that’s ideal for cooking in the air frying.
• Barbecue sauce: Barbecue sauce adds a tangy and sweet glaze to the ribs, enhancing their flavor and creating its characteristic sticky finish.

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the rub

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In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, chili powder, paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder and salt. Mix well to create the rub.

Step 2: Season the ribs

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Rub the dry spice mixture evenly over both sides of the pork ribs.

Editor’s Tip: For a mess-free experience, transfer your dry rub ingredients into a resealable plastic bag. Add the ribs and shake to coat evenly.

Step 3: Cook the ribs

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Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. Arrange the ribs meat side down in the greased air fryer basket. Cook the ribs in the air fryer for 25 minutes, turning them once halfway through to ensure they’re cooked evenly on both sides.

Editor’s Tip: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If needed, cook the ribs in batches to ensure they cook evenly and get a nice, crispy texture.

Step 5: Add barbecue sauce

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Brush 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce over the ribs. Cook them for an additional five minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize and add a glossy, sticky finish.

Editor’s Tip: Warming the barbecue sauce slightly before brushing it onto the ribs will make it easier to spread and help it adhere better to the hot meat.

Step 6: Serve

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Remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with the remaining 1/4 cup of barbecue sauce poured on top.

Recipe Variations

• Add some sweetness: Mix honey and minced garlic with the barbecue sauce for a sweet and savory glaze that balances the spicy rub.
• Mix in herbs: Add dried herbs like thyme or rosemary to the rub for an earthy flavor profile that complements the pork.
• Try an Asian-style twist: Marinate the ribs in soy sauce, ginger and garlic before air frying. Brush with hoisin sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for an Asian-inspired flavor.
• Brighten things up: Add lemon zest and cracked black pepper to the seasoning mix for a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the pork.
• Try a different cut of meat: Besides baby back ribs, you can use spare ribs or country-style ribs in the air fryer.
• Add a tropical twist: Marinate the ribs in pineapple juice, soy sauce and brown sugar for a sweet and tangy tropical flavor.

How to Store Air-Fryer Pork Ribs

Store any leftover air fryer ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in the air fryer or oven before serving.

Can you freeze air-fryer pork ribs?

Yes, you can freeze the cooked ribs. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How do you reheat air-fryer pork ribs?

Reheat the ribs in the air fryer at 350° for five to seven minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a preheated oven at 250° for 10 to 15 minutes.

Air-Fryer Pork Ribs Tips

How do you know the air-fryer ribs are done?

These air fryer pork ribs should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 180° to 195° for the meat to be tender and the fat to have melted through.

Can you use boneless pork ribs in the air fryer?

Yes, boneless pork ribs can be used in this recipe. You’ll have to adjust the cooking time slightly. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 190°, as boneless ribs tend to cook faster.

How do you keep ribs moist in the air fryer?

To prevent overcooking your ribs in the air fryer, make sure to brush the ribs with barbecue sauce while cooking. You can also add a small amount of water or chicken broth to the air fryer basket to help maintain the moisture as the ribs cook.

What can you serve with air-fryer pork ribs?

For a complete meal, you can serve these air fryer ribs with classic barbecue sides like coleslaw, baked beans or a freshly baked pan of buttery cornbread.