Tender, juicy, and full of flavor, these country-style pork ribs are pressure-cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot, then finished under the broiler with a rich, caramelized barbecue glaze. This hearty, comforting recipe delivers all the savory satisfaction of slow-cooked ribs in a fraction of the time, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Instant Pot country-style pork ribs offer the perfect balance of speed and succulence. Using the pressure cooking method ensures tender, fall-apart meat in under an hour, without sacrificing depth of flavor. The broiler finish adds a delightful sticky glaze, while a blend of spices and tangy vinegar enhances the overall taste. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or entertaining guests, this dish delivers high-impact flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for brushing)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for heat)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Directions
- Season the ribs: Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels. Rub them thoroughly with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Sear: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil, then sear the ribs in batches until all sides are lightly browned. Remove the ribs and set aside.
- Deglaze: Pour the chicken broth and apple cider vinegar into the pot. Scrape the bottom to release any browned bits.
- Pressure cook: Return the ribs to the pot. Add barbecue sauce and brown sugar. Seal the lid and cook on Manual High Pressure for 35 minutes.
- Release: Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Finish: Preheat your oven broiler. Transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet, brush them with additional barbecue sauce, and broil for 4–5 minutes until caramelized and sticky.
- Serve: Plate the ribs hot and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side.
Servings and timing
This recipe yields approximately 4 to 6 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes under pressure, plus 10 minutes natural release and 5 minutes broiling
Total time: About 1 hour
Variations
- Sweet and Spicy: Add a tablespoon of hot honey to the barbecue sauce before broiling.
- Asian-Inspired: Replace barbecue sauce with a hoisin-garlic glaze and use soy sauce in place of some of the broth.
- Smokier Flavor: Use liquid smoke (1/2 tsp) along with the spices for a more intense smoky note.
- Boneless Option: Boneless country-style ribs can be used for easier serving and quicker browning.
- Dry Rub Finish: Skip the barbecue glaze and serve ribs with a dry rub crust for a more traditional BBQ approach.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store cooled leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Warm the ribs in a 300°F oven covered with foil for 15–20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
FAQs
How do country-style ribs differ from other pork ribs?
Country-style ribs are meatier and cut from the shoulder portion of the pig, not the rib cage, making them ideal for pressure cooking.
Can I skip the broiling step?
Yes, but broiling adds a caramelized, sticky finish that enhances both the flavor and texture of the ribs.
Is it necessary to sear the ribs before pressure cooking?
While not mandatory, searing adds depth of flavor by creating a savory crust on the meat.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, but cooking times may vary. Beef short ribs or boneless pork chops could work, though results will differ.
What kind of barbecue sauce works best?
Use a thick, flavorful barbecue sauce—either smoky, sweet, or spicy—based on your personal preference.
Can I double the recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes, as long as you do not exceed the fill line. You may need to sear in batches and extend cooking time slightly.
What sides go well with these ribs?
Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, cornbread, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Cook the ribs, cool them, and refrigerate. Reheat under the broiler just before serving.
How do I make this recipe less spicy?
Simply omit the chili powder or use a mild barbecue sauce to tone down the heat.
Can I make this in a slow cooker instead?
Yes. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours, then finish under the broiler as directed.
Conclusion
These Country Style Instant Pot Pork Ribs deliver comfort food at its finest—tender, richly seasoned meat with a caramelized glaze, all made quickly and conveniently. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or need a reliable weeknight meal, this recipe offers both ease and satisfaction in every bite.
PrintCountry Style Instant Pot Pork Ribs
Tender, juicy, and full of flavor, these country-style pork ribs are pressure-cooked in the Instant Pot and finished under the broiler with a sticky BBQ glaze. A quick and hearty comfort food dish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 3 lbs country-style pork ribs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus extra for brushing)
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Pat the pork ribs dry with paper towels. Rub with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode. Add olive oil and sear the ribs on all sides until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Pour chicken broth and apple cider vinegar into the pot to deglaze, scraping the bottom to release any browned bits.
- Return the ribs to the pot. Add barbecue sauce and brown sugar.
- Seal the lid and cook on Manual High Pressure for 35 minutes.
- Allow pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release.
- Preheat your broiler. Transfer the cooked ribs to a baking sheet, brush with extra BBQ sauce, and broil for 4–5 minutes until caramelized and sticky.
- Serve hot with additional BBQ sauce on the side.
Notes
- For spicier ribs, increase the chili powder or add a dash of hot sauce to the BBQ sauce.
- Boneless country-style ribs work best for even cooking and serving.
- Use a silicone basting brush for even sauce application.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 44g
- Cholesterol: 145mg