As a lover of both simple and delicious meals, I’m always looking for ways to make hearty, flavorful dishes with minimal effort. One of my favorite weeknight dinners is Air Fryer Country Style Ribs. These tender, juicy ribs are cooked in the air fryer, which gives them a crispy, caramelized exterior while keeping the meat juicy and succulent. The best part? They’re incredibly easy to prepare and don’t require hours of cooking time, making them perfect for a busy schedule.
In this recipe, I’ll show you how to achieve perfectly cooked country style ribs with a sweet and savory glaze. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, you’ll find this recipe a breeze. The air fryer works wonders in sealing in the flavors while keeping things low-maintenance in the kitchen. Ready to enjoy mouthwatering ribs without all the fuss? Let’s get started!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Country Style Ribs: Country style ribs are cut from the pork shoulder, and while they’re technically not ribs, they are incredibly flavorful and tender. These cuts of meat are perfect for air frying because they can be cooked through quickly while still staying moist and juicy.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the ribs get that crispy, golden-brown exterior while also keeping the meat tender. It adds a mild richness that enhances the flavor of the ribs.
Garlic Powder: Garlic powder is a must for adding savory depth to your ribs. It complements the pork beautifully and gives the dish a bit of aromatic intensity.
Onion Powder: Onion powder adds a subtle sweetness and umami flavor to the seasoning mix. It balances out the richness of the pork and helps round out the flavor profile.
Paprika: Paprika brings a smoky, earthy flavor to the ribs. It not only enhances the taste but also helps with that beautiful color you want in your finished dish.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds sweetness that helps caramelize the ribs, giving them that irresistible, sticky glaze. The sugar’s molasses undertones bring richness and depth to the overall flavor.
Salt and Pepper: These two simple ingredients are essential for seasoning the meat, enhancing all the other flavors in the recipe. They bring balance and ensure your ribs are perfectly seasoned.
Barbecue Sauce: A good barbecue sauce is the finishing touch for these ribs. Whether you prefer sweet, tangy, or spicy, the sauce adds an extra layer of flavor that makes these ribs truly irresistible.
Ingredients List
- 4-6 country style pork ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
How to Make Air Fryer Country Style Ribs
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that the ribs cook evenly and get that perfect crispy exterior.
Step 2: Prepare the Ribs
Pat your country style ribs dry with paper towels. This helps remove any excess moisture and ensures that the seasoning sticks to the meat. Rub olive oil all over the ribs, coating them evenly.
Step 3: Season the Ribs
In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the ribs, ensuring they are fully coated on all sides. The seasoning should stick nicely to the olive oil.
Step 4: Cook the Ribs
Place the seasoned ribs in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Air fry the ribs for 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 5: Glaze with Barbecue Sauce
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush your favorite barbecue sauce onto the ribs. Let the sauce caramelize as the ribs finish cooking, giving them that mouthwatering glaze.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the ribs are cooked and glazed, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: To ensure even cooking and crispy results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If you need to, cook the ribs in batches.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: For perfectly cooked ribs, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 145°F (63°C).
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to use any barbecue sauce you like, whether it’s tangy, sweet, or smoky. You can even make your own homemade sauce to add a personal touch.
- Rest the Meat: Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, making the meat even more tender.
FAQs
Q: Can I use boneless country style ribs for this recipe?
A: Yes! Boneless country style ribs will work just as well in this recipe. They may cook a little faster, so be sure to check for doneness early.
Q: Can I cook these ribs in the oven instead of the air fryer?
A: Yes, you can bake the ribs in the oven at 375°F for 35-40 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Q: How do I know when the ribs are done?
A: The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. Once the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C), the ribs are safe to eat.
Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: Absolutely! Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispy texture.
Q: Can I add more spices to the rub?
A: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Adding chili powder, cumin, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the ribs an extra kick!