If you’re craving tender, fall-off-the-bone goodness packed with bold flavors but don’t want to spend hours slow-cooking, then this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe is exactly what you need. These beef ribs come together in under an hour, delivering mouthwatering spice and juiciness thanks to a simple yet irresistible rub and the magic of pressure cooking. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these ribs will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe highlights how simplicity can yield extraordinary flavor. Each element plays an essential role in seasoning the ribs perfectly and creating a juicy, tender texture that makes this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe so memorable.
- 7 to 8 bones of beef back ribs (about 3 pounds): Choose ribs cut into 2-bone pieces for even cooking and easy serving.
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt: Enhances the natural beef flavor and helps tenderize the meat.
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Ancho chili powder: Provides a smoky, mild spice that beautifully complements the beef.
- ½ cup water: Essential for creating steam inside the Instant Pot to cook the ribs to perfection.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Season the ribs
Start by mixing the sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Ancho chili powder in a small bowl to create a flavorful dry rub. Generously sprinkle this mixture over both sides of the beef ribs, making sure every piece is evenly coated. This step locks in spices that will infuse the meat during cooking and give you that rich, savory taste you’re looking for.
Step 2: Prepare the Instant Pot
Pour ½ cup of water into the bottom of your Instant Pot. This water is crucial as it produces the steam that pressure-cooks the ribs, allowing them to become tender and juicy. Arrange the ribs loosely inside the pot, placing them with the bone side facing down. This positioning helps the meat cook evenly and stay flavorful.
Step 3: Pressure cook the ribs
Seal the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook at high pressure for 25 minutes using the Manual or Pressure Cook setting. Once the timer goes off, let the pressure release naturally for about 15 minutes, which gently finishes the cooking process. If any pressure remains, do a quick release before opening the lid carefully. This method guarantees ribs that are perfectly cooked through and ready for the final touch.
Step 4: Broil the ribs (optional)
If you love that crispy, caramelized edge on your ribs, transfer them bone side down onto a rimmed baking sheet and place under a preheated broiler set to high. Broil for about 5 minutes until the meat starts to crackle and brown beautifully. Keep a close eye here to avoid burning. This finishing step adds a delicious texture contrast that makes this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe feel extra special.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped parsley, a squeeze of fresh lime, or thinly sliced green onions add brightness and a fresh contrast to the smoky, rich ribs. These small touches elevate the presentation and flavor balance effortlessly.
Side Dishes
Classic sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a crisp coleslaw pair beautifully with these beef ribs. If you want to keep it light, a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is perfect to cut through the richness of the meat.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the ribs family-style on a large platter piled high with your favorite sides for a hearty, casual meal. Or plate them individually with artistic swirls of BBQ sauce or chimichurri for a restaurant-quality touch that impresses guests with minimal effort.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To preserve the moisture and flavor, drizzle a little beef broth or water on the ribs before sealing the container.
Freezing
The Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place them in a freezer-safe container. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat ribs gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) with a splash of water or broth, covered with foil to keep them moist. Alternatively, warm them in the Instant Pot on the “Keep Warm” or “Sauté” setting with a bit of liquid to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other cuts of beef instead of back ribs?
While back ribs are ideal for this recipe due to their tenderness and flavor, you can experiment with other cuts like short ribs. Keep in mind that cooking times may need slight adjustments based on the meat’s thickness and fat content.
Do I have to broil the ribs at the end?
The broiling step is optional but highly recommended if you want a crispy exterior. Without broiling, the ribs will still be tender and flavorful but will lack that caramelized crust.
Can I add a BBQ sauce glaze before broiling?
Absolutely! Brushing your favorite BBQ sauce on the ribs before broiling adds a delicious sticky sweetness and extra flavor dimension. Just watch carefully to avoid burning the sugars in the sauce.
Is it necessary to let the pressure release naturally?
Allowing the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes helps the meat finish cooking gently and stay tender. Quick release can sometimes cause tougher texture, so this step improves overall results.
How spicy is the Ancho chili powder in this recipe?
Ancho chili powder is mild with a smoky, slightly sweet flavor rather than intense heat. It’s perfect for adding depth without overwhelming the beef ribs with spiciness.
Final Thoughts
This Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe effortlessly brings together tender meat, smoky spices, and a quick cooking process that fits beautifully into any busy lifestyle. I can’t recommend it enough for those moments when you want a satisfying, flavorful meal without all the fuss. Give it a try, and prepare to impress yourself and everyone at the table!
Print
Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Instant Pot Beef Ribs recipe offers tender, flavorful ribs cooked quickly under pressure. The ribs are seasoned with a simple spice rub and pressure cooked to juicy perfection, then optionally broiled for a crispy finish. Perfect for a hearty and satisfying meal ready in under an hour.
Ingredients
Beef Ribs
- 7 to 8 bones of beef back ribs (about 3 pounds), cut into 2-bone pieces
Spice Rub
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 1 teaspoon fresh ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Ancho chili powder
For Cooking
- ½ cup water (for pressure cooking)
Instructions
- Season the ribs: In a small bowl, combine the sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and Ancho chili powder to create the spice rub. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over both sides of the beef ribs pieces, ensuring each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
- Prepare the Instant Pot: Pour ½ cup of water into the Instant Pot or any electric pressure cooker to generate the steam needed for pressure cooking. Stack the ribs loosely inside the pot with the bone side facing down.
- Pressure cook the ribs: Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes using the Manual or Pressure Cook setting. After the cooking time has elapsed, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 15 minutes until the valve drops. If any pressure remains, perform a quick release before opening the lid.
- Broil the ribs (optional): For a crispy finish, transfer the ribs bone side down onto a rimmed baking sheet. Place them under a preheated broiler on high and cook for about 5 minutes or until the meat starts to crackle and brown. Keep a close eye to prevent burning. Remove from the broiler and serve immediately.
Notes
- Make sure to watch the ribs closely while broiling to avoid burning.
- Natural pressure release helps retain juiciness and tenderizes the meat.
- Cutting ribs into 2-bone pieces helps them cook evenly and fit better in the pot.
- You can adjust the spice rub to your preferred heat level by changing the chili powder amount.
- Use beef back ribs for the best flavor and tenderness.
