Tender and Smoky Air Fryer BBQ Ribs: Easy and Quick Recipe

These Air Fryer BBQ Ribs are tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned, all cooked in a fraction of the time it would take in the oven or grill. With a crispy, caramelized BBQ glaze, this recipe gives you all the flavor of slow-cooked ribs, but in just under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend treat!

Ingredients

  • 1 rack of baby back ribs
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)

Instructions

Prepare the Ribs:

  • Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This can be done by gently pulling it off with a paper towel for a better grip.
  • Pat the ribs dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.

Season the Ribs:

  • In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  • Rub the seasoning mix evenly over both sides of the ribs.

Preheat the Air Fryer:

  • Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Cook the Ribs:

  • Place the seasoned ribs into the air fryer basket, curling them if necessary to fit. Make sure there’s space for air circulation.
  • Cook the ribs for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the ribs are tender and the outside is crispy.

Glaze with BBQ Sauce:

  • Brush a generous amount of BBQ sauce over the ribs, coating them evenly.
  • Return the ribs to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes at 375°F to allow the BBQ sauce to caramelize and set.

Serve:

  • Remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes.
  • Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side. Enjoy!

These ribs are perfect for any occasion and are sure to be a hit with everyone!