These air fryer barbecue pork ribs are juicy, tender, and packed with smoky, savory flavors, all while being quick and easy to make. The air fryer cooks the ribs to perfection with a crispy exterior and melt-in-your-mouth interior. The barbecue sauce adds a sweet and tangy glaze, making these ribs a crowd-pleasing favorite. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy ribs without the long cooking time of a grill or oven.

Ingredients:

  • 1 rack of baby back pork ribs (about 1.5 pounds)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup barbecue sauce (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Ribs: Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs for extra tenderness. Use a paper towel to grip and pull it off.
  2. Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, ground mustard, and cayenne pepper (if using). Rub this spice mixture all over both sides of the ribs. Let the ribs sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
  4. Cook the Ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in the air fryer basket, curved side up. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cut the rack in half to fit. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes.
  5. Apply Barbecue Sauce: After 25 minutes, brush a generous amount of barbecue sauce over the ribs and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes at 375°F (190°C), or until the ribs are crispy and the sauce is caramelized.
  6. Rest and Serve: Remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.

Nutrition (per serving, assuming 4 servings):

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 12g
    • Sugars: 10g
  • Fat: 22g
    • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 650mg

These tender and flavorful ribs are perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend treat, all while being cooked in the air fryer! Enjoy your juicy, fall-off-the-bone barbecue pork ribs!