30 Minute Baby Back Ribs in the Air Fryer

Have you ever craved some juicy, tender baby back ribs but didn't want to spend hours slaving away in the kitchen or outdoor grill? Look no further! These 30-Minute Baby Back Ribs in the Air Fryer are the perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal.

Baby back ribs

You'll need a rack of baby back ribs, your favorite BBQ sauce, and a few basic spices (such as paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, etc). You'll also need an air fryer, of course.

Pork rib membrane

First, remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (this helps the ribs become more tender and allows the flavors to penetrate better). Then, season the ribs with the spice rub. Place the ribs in the air fryer basket, making sure to leave some space between each rib.

Air fryer

Set the air fryer to 375°Fahrenheit and cook the ribs for 15 minutes. Then, flip the ribs over and cook for an additional 10 minutes. Finally, brush the ribs with BBQ sauce one more time and cook for an additional 5 minutes at 400°F.

Air Fryer Ribs

That's it! In just 30 minutes, you'll have tender and flavorful baby back ribs that are sure to impress. Serve the ribs with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!

FAQs

Can I use a different type of ribs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of ribs for this recipe, such as spare ribs or St. Louis style ribs. However, keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and thickness of the ribs.


Can I make the ribs in the oven instead of an air fryer?

Yes, you can make the ribs in the oven instead of an air fryer. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and place the ribs on a baking sheet lined with foil. Cook the ribs for 20-25 minutes, then brush with BBQ sauce and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes.


Can I use a different type of BBQ sauce for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any type of BBQ sauce that you prefer for this recipe. Feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your perfect BBQ sauce match.


Can I prepare the ribs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the ribs in advance and store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook them. Simply season the ribs and wrap them in foil before placing them in the fridge. When you're ready to cook the ribs, follow the recipe as directed.


How do I know when the ribs are done?

The ribs are done when they are tender and the meat easily falls off the bone. You can also use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the ribs has reached 145 degrees Fahrenheit.

Make it

30 Minute Baby Back Ribs in the Air Fryer

Ingredients


1 tsp kosher salt, or to taste

1/2 tsp black pepper, freshly ground

1 tsp smoked paprika

1 tsp Italian Seasoning

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp ground coriander

1/2 tsp dried rosemary

1 Tbsp avocado oil or canola oil

3 lbs Baby Back Ribs


Sweet and Sticky BBQ Sauce:

1/2 cup ketchup

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 tablespoon olive oil

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions:

Remove the membrane: Peel off the silverskin from the back of the ribs.

Cut the rack of pork ribs into 2-3 sections so that it can fit into your air fryer basket.

Make the spice rub: In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, paprika, rosemary, Italian seasoning, coriander and salt, and pepper.

Season the baby back ribs: Pat the ribs dry and oil with one tbsp of oil, then rub the ribs on all sides with the spice rub.

Cook the ribs in the air fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F/190°C for 3 minutes. Once hot, place the ribs into the basket with the meat side down and cook for 15 minutes. (It’s important to let the air fryer heat up first to avoid the ribs from sticking to the basket.)

Flip the ribs using kitchen tongs, and cook for 10 more minutes at 375°F/190°C.

Make the BBQ sauce: While the ribs are cooking, you can add bbq sauce ingredients in a saucepan. Heat over medium-low heat until the sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

Brush with BBQ sauce: Remove the basket from the air fryer and brush generously with barbecue sauce on all sides.

Place the basket back in the air fryer and cook for 2 - 3 more minutes at 400°F/200°C, or until the sauce has set and darkened slightly.

Remove the ribs from the basket and let them rest for 5 minutes so that the juices can redistribute through the meat.

Enjoy, buen provecho!