How to Cook Tender, Juicy Boneless Pork Ribs in an Instant Pot

Boneless pork ribs are a delicious, quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With an Instant Pot, you can have fall-off-the-bone tender ribs ready in less than an hour!

Why Cook Boneless Pork Ribs in an Instant Pot?

There are several advantages to using an Instant Pot to cook boneless pork ribs

  • Speed – The pressurized environment of the Instant Pot allows the ribs to cook up to 70% faster than traditional braising methods Dinner can be ready in as little as 30-45 minutes!

  • Tenderness – The combination of pressure and steam helps break down collagen and connective tissue in the meat, resulting in incredibly tender and juicy ribs.

  • Flavor – Cooking the ribs in liquid allows them to absorb tons of flavorful seasonings. The ribs come out deeply seasoned and delicious.

  • Convenience – There’s minimal prep and clean up involved. Just toss the ingredients in the pot, set it and forget it. Plus, you don’t have to watch over a stove or oven.

  • Versatility – Boneless ribs work well in a variety of Instant Pot recipes like ribs and beans, ribs and potatoes, ribs ragu pasta, etc. You can get creative!

Step-By-Step Guide to Cook Boneless Pork Ribs in Instant Pot

Follow these simple steps for foolproof Instant Pot boneless pork ribs every time.

Ingredients

  • 2-2.5 lbs boneless country-style pork ribs
  • 1 Tbsp brown sugar
  • 2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1⁄2 tsp each garlic powder and onion powder
  • 1⁄4 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1.5 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • BBQ sauce

Instructions

  1. Season the Ribs: Combine the brown sugar, salt, pepper and spices. Rub the seasoning all over the ribs. This helps flavor penetrate the meat.

  2. Add Liquid to Pot: Pour the water, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar and garlic into the Instant Pot. The liquid helps the ribs cook evenly.

  3. Pressure Cook: Place the seasoned ribs in the pot. Lock the lid. Cook on High Pressure for 18-20 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes then quick release.

  4. Coat in BBQ Sauce: Brush the ribs with sauce, arrange on a baking sheet. Broil 4-5 minutes until sauce caramelizes.

  5. Serve and Enjoy! Dig into these crazy tender, finger-licking ribs!

Tips for Best Results

  • Look for ribs with good marbling. They’ll be juicier. Ribs with no fat may dry out.

  • Cut ribs into individual portions so they cook evenly.

  • Add smoked paprika, cayenne or other spices to amp up flavor.

  • Make ahead then broil with sauce to reheat. Not as tender but still tasty.

  • Frozen ribs work too. Increase pressure cook time to 25 minutes.

Creative Ways to Serve Instant Pot Boneless Pork Ribs

Now that you know how easy it is to cook boneless ribs in the Instant Pot, here are some fun ways to serve them:

BBQ Ribs Sandwich

  • Pile tender ribs on a bun with extra sauce, pickles and coleslaw for an amazing sandwich.

Rib Taco Bar

  • Offer ribs as a protein filling for DIY taco night. Provide tortillas, salsas, onions, cilantro, lime wedges.

Rib and Potato Bowl

  • Combine sliced ribs with potatoes, corn, bell peppers for a hearty bowl meal.

Rib Ragu Pasta

  • Toss shredded ribs with marinara sauce and pasta. Grate parmesan on top.

Rib Lettuce Wraps

  • For a lighter option, wrap sliced ribs and sauce in bibb or butter lettuce leaves.

Rib Hash

  • Sauté cubed potatoes with onions, peppers and shredded rib meat for amazing hash. Top with eggs.

Pork Rib Soup

  • Simmer cooked ribs in chicken or veggie broth with veggies and beans for a hearty, protein-packed soup.

More Helpful Tips for Instant Pot Boneless Pork Ribs

  • If short on time, skip marinating ribs and use a bold BBQ rib rub instead.

  • Add a splash of bourbon, beer or Dr. Pepper to the cooking liquid for extra flavor.

  • Shred leftover ribs to use in sandwiches, tacos, soups, scrambled eggs, etc.

  • Pork ribs pair well with classic BBQ sides like baked beans, coleslaw, cornbread and potato salad.

  • Garnish ribs with sliced green onions, cilantro, sesame seeds or chopped peanuts.

Instant Pot Boneless Pork Rips / Easy Pork Rips Recipe

FAQ

Why are my pork ribs tough Instant Pot?

Why are my pork ribs tough when cooked in the Instant Pot? This means that they’re not cooked long enough. Be sure to cook the ribs for the full 30 minutes on high, and let the pressure release for 15 minutes before removing the lid.

How long do you cook country style ribs in an instapot?

Pressure cook on high pressure for 50 minutes then allow it to naturally release (do nothing) for 15 minutes. Turn the pressure valve to release any additional steam then carefully open the lid. Use tongs to carefully remove the country style ribs from the Insant Pot and transfer them to a sheet pan.

Are ribs better in the oven or Instant Pot?

The Instant Pot is the perfect vehicle to cook tender, fall off the bone meat in a short amount of time. Because you pressure cook the ribs, they are super tender, but they do need another quick cook either in the oven or on the grill to finish them off and give them a nice crust.

How to cook Boneless Ribs in Instant Pot?

Pour the water, Worcestershire, and cider vinegar into the Instant Pot. Crush the garlic cloves and pop them into the liquid in the pot. Place the seasoned boneless ribs in the pot. Put the lid on and lock it in place. Turn the pressure valve to seal. Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure Meat/Stew mode for 18 minutes.

Can you cook pork ribs in Instant Pot?

Return the pork ribs to the Instant Pot, making sure they are fully coated with the flavorful liquid. Lock the lid of your Instant Pot and set it to the pressure cooking mode. Cook the ribs on high pressure for 25 minutes.

How long to cook ribs in Instant Pot?

Set the Instant Pot to cook on high pressure Meat/Stew mode for 18 minutes. At the end of 18 minutes do a natural release of pressure for 5 minutes, then finish with a quick release. NOTE- While the pressure is releasing PREHEAT THE OVEN TO BROIL. Place the cooked ribs on a sheet pan and coat one side with desired amount of your favorite BBQ sauce.

How to marinate ribs in Instant Pot?

First, place 3.5 to 4 lbs country style ribs into the apple cider vinegar marinade in Instant Pot. Then, add ¼ tsp (2g) coarse kosher salt, ground black pepper, and 2 tbsp (25g) brown sugar or honey on top of the country style ribs. Now, marinate the country style ribs for 30 minutes to 1 hour in the fridge.

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