Go Back
+ servings
A serving plate of baby back ribs made in the Instant Pot

Instant Pot Baby Back Ribs

These baby back pork ribs are so tender they fall off the bone. Using the Instant Pot gets them done in record time but makes them so tender they taste like they slow braised all day. When they finish cooking we toss them under the broiler to get the barbecue sauce thick, sticky, and caramelized.
5 from 6 votes
Print Pin Video Save
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 987kcal
Author: Dahn Boquist

Ingredients

  • 3-1/2 pounds Baby Back pork ribs
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons seasoning salt
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce homemade or store-bought

Instructions

  • Cut the pork ribs into smaller sections of 3 to 4 ribs so they fit inside the pot. 
  • In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, seasoning salt, and chili powder. Rub the seasoning blend all over the ribs.
  • Place a rack in the Instant Pot and pour in the water and vinegar. Place the ribs on the rack.
  • Secure the lid and place the valve in the sealed position.
  • Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. 
  • Allow the Instant Pot to release pressure naturally for at least 10 minutes then release the rest of the pressure manually. 
  • Remove the ribs from the pot and baste with barbecue sauce. 

For thick caramelized BBQ sauce:

  • Turn your oven on broil and place the oven rack 6 inches below the broiler unit. Place the basted ribs on a baking sheet and put them under the broiler for 2 to 4 minutes. 

Notes

If the ribs have a thin membrane still attached remove it before cooking them. The membrane is tough and flavorless. To remove the membrane loosen the edge of it with a knife then grasp it with a paper towel or dish towel and give it a good tug. The whole thing will peal right off. 

High Altitude cooking times:

  • Over 2000 feet = 26 minutes
  • Over 3000 feet = 27 minutes
  • Over 4000 feet = 28 minutes
  • Over 5000 feet = 30 minutes

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1 | Calories: 987kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 71g | Saturated Fat: 21g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 31g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 238mg | Sodium: 1717mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 32g