If you’re craving tender, juicy ribs but don’t want to spend hours waiting on the oven or grill, these Easy Air Fryer Ribs are the perfect solution. In just 25 minutes, you’ll get ribs that are flavorful, fall-off-the-bone tender, and coated in sticky BBQ sauce. This simple recipe uses only a handful of ingredients and delivers big, bold flavor every time.
2 pounds pork back ribs
2 teaspoons salt
2 teaspoons black pepper
½ cup BBQ sauce
Prepare the Ribs:
Cut the rack of ribs into small sections so they fit easily inside your air fryer basket.
Season:
Season all sides of the ribs generously with salt and black pepper.
First Cook:
Place ribs in the air fryer basket meaty side down.
Set temperature to 400°F (205°C) and cook for 20 minutes.
Flip Halfway:
At the 10-minute mark, flip ribs using tongs so they cook evenly.
Check Doneness:
Ribs should reach an internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C) for tender, pull-apart meat.
Add BBQ Sauce:
Brush ribs generously with BBQ sauce. Return to air fryer with the meaty side up and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Rest & Serve:
Transfer ribs to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes. Brush with extra BBQ sauce if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures ribs are cooked through and tender.
Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space around ribs for proper air circulation.
Customize Flavor: Add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, or cayenne for extra depth.
Extra Sticky Finish: Brush with another layer of BBQ sauce after resting.