Name: Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef short ribs; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup beef broth; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/3 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving); 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste

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If you dream of barbecue-seasoned ribs that practically fall off the bone but don’t want to spend hours tending to a grill or smoker, Instant Pot Beef Ribs are your new dinnertime game changer. This method locks in amazing juiciness, melts away tough bits, and bathes every bite with sweet-and-smoky barbecue flavor—all in just over an hour. Whether you’re craving a comforting weeknight meal or seriously impressing your weekend guests, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crave-worthy centerpiece that tastes like it’s been slow-cooked all day. Once you try making Instant Pot Beef Ribs just once, you’ll find yourself dreaming up new excuses to make them again and again!

Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering a handful of pantry staples is all it takes to unleash the magic of Instant Pot Beef Ribs. Each ingredient is handpicked for rich, layered flavor: from tangy apple cider vinegar to the deep notes of Worcestershire, they all play a special role in creating impossibly tasty, tender ribs.

Beef short ribs (3 lbs): These meaty, marbled ribs are the true star, delivering incredible flavor and tenderness.
Olive oil (1 tbsp): Kicks off the cooking process with a beautiful sear and keeps everything juicy.
Beef broth (1 cup): Forms the flavorful base for pressure cooking, infusing the meat with savory depth.
Apple cider vinegar (1/4 cup): Adds a pop of tanginess that brightens up every bite.
Barbecue sauce (1/3 cup, plus more for serving): Brings the rich, sweet, and smoky backbone to these unforgettable ribs.
Worcestershire sauce (1 tbsp): Delivers a hit of umami that takes the sauce from good to “wow.”
Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Lends a touch of sweetness and helps create irresistible caramelization during broiling.
Smoked paprika (1 tsp): Dials up that signature BBQ flavor and a touch of smokiness without a smoker.
Garlic powder (1/2 tsp): Packs in robust aroma and flavor without chopping fresh garlic.
Onion powder (1/2 tsp): Adds a mellow, savory base that enhances every mouthful.
Salt and pepper (to taste): Classic seasoning that lets the big flavors shine through.

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Ribs

Step 1: Season the Ribs

Start with freshly patted-dry beef ribs to help the seasoning really stick and create a perfect crust. Coat the ribs all over with a generous sprinkle of salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder—this flavor base is what sets Instant Pot Beef Ribs apart and guarantees every bite is packed with smoky, savory goodness.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs

Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and drizzle in the olive oil. Working in batches, lay the ribs in hot oil and sear on all sides until golden and deliciously browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Not only does this step develop a deep, meaty flavor, it adds gorgeous color and texture to your final dish.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pot

When all the ribs are seared and resting, pour the beef broth into the pot and use a wooden spoon to gently scrape up those irresistible browned bits from the bottom—think of this as unlocking hidden flavor for your Instant Pot Beef Ribs.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Whisk in the apple cider vinegar, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar, stirring well so everything is beautifully combined. This flavorful liquid will seep into every crevice of the ribs as they cook, making each piece irresistibly tasty and tender.

Step 5: Pressure Cook to Perfection

Return all the ribs to the pot, stacking them if you need to. Make sure each rib gets a little love from the sauce. Lock the lid, set the valve to Sealing, and cook on Manual/High Pressure for 45 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes—think of this as the Instant Pot’s secret way to guarantee fall-apart results—then quick release any remaining pressure.

Step 6: Optional Broil for a Sticky Finish

If you crave that sticky, caramelized finish, remove the ribs and slather them with extra BBQ sauce. Pop them under your oven’s broiler for 3–5 minutes. This step forms a glossy, irresistible crust you’ll find impossible to resist.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Arrange your Instant Pot Beef Ribs on a serving platter, drizzle with your favorite sauce, and serve piping hot. Now, prepare yourself for applause from your lucky dinner companions—these ribs are truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Ribs

Garnishes

The finishing touches can take Instant Pot Beef Ribs from fantastic to downright showstopping! Sprinkle on fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color, or dust with a little extra smoked paprika. A handful of crispy fried onions or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can push these over the top if you’re in the mood for an extra kick.

Side Dishes

For a classic pairing, serve your ribs alongside creamy mashed potatoes, buttery sweet corn, or tangy coleslaw. Crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a cooling cucumber salad can round out your meal and help soak up every last drop of that amazing sauce. The key? Pick sides with a little crunch or creaminess—they perfectly balance the tenderness of the beef.

Creative Ways to Present

Instant Pot Beef Ribs aren’t just for piling up on a platter (though that’s always a crowd-pleaser). Try slicing the meat and tucking it into soft sandwiches with pickled onions, or lay ribs atop a cheesy polenta or rice bowl for a fresh spin. No matter how you plate them, let that beautifully glossy sauce shine!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any ribs left (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to pour a little extra sauce over the meat to keep it moist. Instant Pot Beef Ribs will stay perfectly delicious for up to 3 days, making them a fabulous option for meal prepping or easy lunches.

Freezing

These ribs freeze beautifully! Allow the cooked ribs to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag with a bit of sauce. They’ll keep their tender texture and full flavor for up to three months. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To keep them at their juicy best, reheat Instant Pot Beef Ribs gently in the oven (covered with foil) at 325°F until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions with a splash of sauce, or use your Instant Pot’s Sauté function for a quick heat-up. Either way, they stay fall-apart tender.

FAQs

Can I use pork ribs instead of beef short ribs?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that pork ribs tend to cook a bit faster. Adjust the pressure-cooking time to about 35 minutes for pork, and check for tenderness before serving.

What if I don’t have apple cider vinegar?

You can swap in white vinegar, rice vinegar, or even a splash of lemon juice for a similar tangy effect. Each brings its own subtle twist to the sauce, but the ribs will still be delicious.

Is the broiling step necessary?

Nope! Broiling is an optional step that adds extra caramelization and a sticky finish, but Instant Pot Beef Ribs are incredibly tender and flavorful straight out of the pot. Skip it if you’re short on time or want to keep things simple.

Can I make Instant Pot Beef Ribs ahead of time for a party?

Definitely! The flavor actually deepens as the ribs rest. Cook them a day in advance, refrigerate, then reheat with a little extra sauce just before your guests arrive—they’ll never guess you didn’t make them that day.

How can I make these ribs spicier?

If you love a little heat, add cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or a squirt of your favorite hot sauce to the spice rub or sauce. You can adjust the amount to create your perfect level of spice.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a plate of Instant Pot Beef Ribs: the aroma, the first fork-tender bite, and the happy smiles around the table. Whether you’re new to the Instant Pot or a seasoned pro, this recipe is an invitation to savor comfort food at its very best. Give it a try—you might just find yourself reaching for your pressure cooker every time those rib cravings hit!

Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe

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4.7 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Instant Pot Beef Ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and bursting with flavor. Searing the ribs before pressure cooking ensures a caramelized crust, while a savory-sweet sauce infuses them with irresistible taste. Finish by broiling for a sticky, delicious glaze.