Transform your weeknight dinners with the ultimate secret weapon: Instant Pot Country Style Ribs. Imagine succulent, fall-off-the-bone pork ribs, bursting with rich, smoky BBQ flavor, yet ready on your table in under an hour. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a game-changer for anyone craving that slow-cooked, grill-master taste without the long hours or complicated equipment. Forget the grill or smoker – your Instant Pot unlocks incredible tenderness, and one simple finishing step delivers that irresistible caramelized char usually reserved for backyard barbecues. Get ready to experience country-style ribs like never before!
Say goodbye to lengthy cooking times and hello to effortless deliciousness. This method ensures your pork ribs emerge perfectly tender, deeply flavorful, and incredibly juicy every single time. All you’ll need is your trusty Instant Pot, a few pantry staples, and maybe a stack of napkins for inevitable finger-licking goodness!
Here at Oh Sweet Basil, we’re no strangers to incredible rib recipes. From our Asian Sticky Slow Cooker Ribs to our comforting Oven Braised Short Ribs, we love exploring different ways to enjoy this classic comfort food. However, this marks our very first dedicated country-style ribs recipe, and honestly, we’re wondering why it took us so long! We’ve been enjoying these incredibly tender and flavorful pork ribs for years, and it’s high time we shared this delightful secret with you.
These versatile Instant Pot pork ribs pair beautifully with a variety of sides, making them a fantastic option for any meal. In our home, a typical spread featuring these savory ribs would include a generous helping of our Best Baked Beans, offering a sweet and savory balance. To add a touch of freshness, we often serve something light like our Garden Balsamic Avocado Salad. And, as a special treat, our kids absolutely adore homemade cornbread alongside these ribs, so it often makes an appearance on our dinner table!
If you’re eager to discover more speedy and delicious Instant Pot creations, explore our full collection of Instant Pot recipes. You’ll find dinner solutions that are perfect for busy weeknights. A standout favorite among our readers is our incredibly popular and viral Award-Winning Instant Pot Chili. And for those just starting out or needing a quick refresher, our Instant Pot Cheat Sheet provides all the essential guidance for mastering your pressure cooker basics. Now, let’s get back to these incredibly juicy and flavorful Instant Pot country-style pork ribs!
Decoding Country-Style Ribs: What Cut of Meat Are They?
Prepare for a surprising revelation! Despite their name, country-style pork ribs aren’t actually ribs at all. This popular cut is, in fact, pork shoulder, also affectionately known as pork butt. It’s the very same incredibly versatile and flavorful meat used to create mouthwatering dishes like pulled pork and carnitas. This unique origin is what contributes to their incredible tenderness and rich flavor profile, making them a fantastic choice for pressure cooking.
Are Country Style Ribs Made from Beef or Pork?
The term “country-style ribs” can actually refer to cuts from both beef and pork, giving you flexibility based on your preference. Beef country-style ribs tend to be considerably meatier and offer a different texture. However, for this specific recipe, we highly recommend and prefer using pork country-style ribs. Their fat marbling and natural tenderness are ideal for achieving the desired fall-apart texture in the Instant Pot. We also generally opt for boneless varieties for ease of preparation and serving.
Why Choose Country Style Ribs for Your Next Meal?
Beyond their delightful taste and ease of preparation, there are several compelling reasons to make country-style ribs a staple in your recipe rotation:
- Budget-Friendly: One of the most significant advantages is their affordability. You can often find country-style ribs at a fraction of the cost of more expensive cuts like baby back or spare ribs, making them an economical choice for feeding your family or a crowd.
- Unbeatable Tenderness: These ribs boast excellent fat marbling throughout the pork shoulder. This marbling melts down during the cooking process, resulting in exceptionally tender, juicy, and succulent meat that practically melts in your mouth.
- Rich, Deep Flavor: The inherent richness of pork shoulder, combined with a flavorful rub and BBQ sauce, creates a robust taste that is deeply satisfying and reminiscent of classic comfort food.
- Versatile Preparation: As you’ll discover with this Instant Pot recipe, country-style ribs adapt beautifully to various cooking methods, including slow cooking, baking, and pressure cooking, always delivering delicious results.
- Quick & Easy: While they taste like they’ve simmered for hours, the Instant Pot makes them achievable in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights.
Essential Ingredients for Irresistible Instant Pot Country Style Ribs
The magic of these Instant Pot Country Style Ribs lies in building layers of flavor. We start with a robust, smoky-sweet dry rub that penetrates deep into the meat. Then, a homemade BBQ sauce adds an extra dimension of tangy sweetness. Finally, the pressure cooker tenderizes the ribs to perfection, allowing them to absorb all that incredible goodness.
Ingredients for the Bold BBQ Rub:
- Kosher Salt: More than just seasoning, kosher salt plays a crucial role in tenderizing the pork and drawing out its natural flavors, creating a more succulent finished product.
- Brown Sugar: This adds a beautiful touch of sweetness that balances the savory elements and promotes a delicious caramelization during the broiling step, creating crispy edges.
- Black Pepper: A classic spice that provides a subtle bite and aromatic warmth, enhancing the overall complexity of the rub.
- Garlic Powder: Infuses the ribs with a foundational, savory depth that is essential for any great BBQ.
- Onion Powder: Layers in a mild, sweet onion flavor and a hint of umami, complementing the garlic without overpowering it.
- Chili Powder: Offers a mild, earthy heat and characteristic smoky undertones, contributing to that authentic barbecue taste.
- Smoked Paprika: This is a key ingredient for mimicking that grilled, smoky flavor, especially when you’re cooking indoors. It adds depth and a beautiful reddish hue.
- Dried Thyme: Brings an earthy, herbaceous note that adds sophistication and a fresh counterpoint to the richer flavors.
- Ground Cumin: Delivers a warm, slightly nutty, and earthy aroma, a staple in many robust spice blends.
- Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch of nutmeg provides a hint of warm spice that rounds out the flavor profile, adding a subtle complexity that makes the rub truly special.
For the Tangy & Sweet Homemade BBQ Sauce:
- Ketchup: Forms the essential tangy, tomato-rich base that brings all the sauce components together.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Crucial for cutting through the richness of the pork with its bright, acidic notes, balancing the sweetness of the sauce.
- Honey: Contributes natural, floral sweetness and helps create a lovely glossy shine on the finished ribs.
- Brown Sugar: Enhances the deep, caramel-like sweetness, building on the foundation from the rub.
- Smoked Paprika: Reinforces the smoky character established by the dry rub, tying the flavors together beautifully.
- Garlic Powder: Keeps the sauce savory and well-rounded, echoing the flavors from the rub for a cohesive taste.
- Honey Mustard: Adds a delightful tangy zing and a subtle, mellow mustard flavor that complements the BBQ profile.
- Worcestershire Sauce: A powerhouse of umami, providing a salty, savory depth that enhances the meatiness of the ribs.
- Molasses: Offers a rich, sticky sweetness with a slightly bitter undertone, providing a complex balance and a deep, dark color to the sauce.
- Black Pepper: A final touch of warmth and gentle spice to complete the harmonious blend of flavors.
What You’ll Need for the Ribs Themselves:
- Cooking Oil: Essential for searing the ribs, creating a flavorful crust and locking in juices before pressure cooking.
- Boneless Country-Style Pork Ribs: The star of our dish, chosen for their meaty texture, excellent marbling, and perfect suitability for tenderizing in the Instant Pot.
- Apple Juice: Adds subtle sweetness and ensures the ribs remain incredibly moist and flavorful as they cook under pressure.
- Liquid Smoke: Our secret ingredient that infuses the ribs with an authentic, deep smoky flavor, making them taste like they’ve come straight off a charcoal grill.
You’ll find precise measurements for each of these incredible ingredients in the detailed recipe card located at the conclusion of this post.
Mastering Instant Pot Country Style Ribs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Creating these unbelievably tender and flavorful country-style pork ribs in your Instant Pot is surprisingly simple. Follow these steps for a dish that tastes like it took all day, but comes together in under an hour!
- Prepare the Ribs with a Flavorful Rub: Begin by setting aside a small portion (about 1-2 tablespoons) of our rich, smoky homemade BBQ rub. This reserved rub will be used later for our secret finishing step. Then, generously coat each country-style pork rib with the remaining rub, ensuring every surface is covered for maximum flavor penetration. Don’t be shy – the rub is where the foundational barbecue flavor truly begins!
- Brown for Depth of Flavor: Heat your Instant Pot by setting it to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add a tablespoon of cooking oil to the pot. Once hot, brown the ribs in batches, if necessary, to avoid overcrowding the pot. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. This crucial step, known as the Maillard reaction, develops deep, complex flavors that you simply can’t achieve with just pressure cooking. If your Instant Pot doesn’t have a sauté function, you can easily brown the ribs in a separate pan on your stovetop. Once browned, remove the ribs to a plate and turn off the ‘Sauté’ mode.
- Pressure Cook to Perfection: Pour the apple juice and the liquid smoke into the bottom of your Instant Pot. The apple juice adds a touch of sweetness and moisture, while the liquid smoke infuses that essential barbecue aroma. Next, carefully place a trivet (this keeps the ribs elevated from the liquid) into the pot. Arrange the browned ribs on top of the trivet. Secure the lid, making sure the sealing ring is properly in place, and set the valve to the ‘Sealing’ position. Cook on ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ mode, set to ‘High’ pressure for 32 minutes.
- Allow for Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a 10-minute natural pressure release. This means simply leaving the Instant Pot undisturbed for 10 minutes after it finishes cooking. This crucial step allows the meat to relax and reabsorb juices, ensuring maximum tenderness. After 10 minutes, carefully turn the valve to ‘Venting’ for a quick release of any remaining pressure.
- Carefully Transfer the Tender Ribs: The ribs will be incredibly tender, practically falling apart at this stage. Using sturdy tongs or a slotted spoon, very carefully transfer the ribs from the Instant Pot to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Handle them gently to prevent them from shredding completely before the final step.
- Broil for That Grill-Like Finish (The Secret Step!): Preheat your oven broiler. Now, sprinkle the reserved BBQ rub (from step 1) generously over the transferred ribs on the baking sheet. This is the secret to achieving that authentic, smoky, grilled flavor and crispy texture! Place the baking sheet under the broiler for just 2-3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning. You’re looking for the rub to caramelize, creating delicious crispy edges and a beautiful char, making them taste like they just came off a real flame grill.
- Serve and Savor: Remove the ribs from the oven immediately. Serve them piping hot with a generous helping of our favorite Homemade BBQ Sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. Prepare for rave reviews and don’t be surprised if these unbelievably easy and flavorful country-style ribs earn a permanent spot on your weekly shopping list!
That’s all there is to it! This Instant Pot country-style pork ribs recipe is truly a culinary revelation, bringing restaurant-quality taste to your home with minimal effort. More detailed instructions and ingredient quantities can be found in the recipe card at the end of this post.
Craving more delicious pork dishes? If you loved these country-style ribs, be sure to try our BEST Pulled Pork Recipe next for another crowd-pleasing meal!
Should I Use a Trivet When Cooking Ribs in the Instant Pot?
Yes, absolutely! Using a trivet is highly recommended when cooking ribs in the Instant Pot. The trivet elevates the ribs above the cooking liquid, ensuring they are steamed rather than boiled. This prevents them from sitting directly in the fat that renders out during cooking and helps achieve a more even cook, preventing the ribs from becoming soggy or sticking to the bottom of the pot. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the texture and overall quality of your ribs.
Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With Country Style Ribs
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making the perfect Instant Pot country-style ribs, the next step is rounding out your meal with delicious side dishes. These ribs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a wide array of classic comfort foods and fresh salads. Here are some of our top recommendations to complete your barbecue feast:
- Southern Macaroni and Cheese: Creamy, cheesy, and utterly comforting, a perfect companion to savory ribs.
- Best Baked Beans: Sweet, smoky, and hearty, these beans are a quintessential BBQ side that complements the ribs beautifully.
- Easy 7-Up Biscuits: Light, fluffy biscuits are ideal for soaking up all that delicious BBQ sauce.
- Herbed Focaccia Bread: A fragrant, olive oil-rich bread that adds an elegant touch and is great for dipping.
- Best Mashed Potatoes: Smooth, creamy mashed potatoes offer a comforting contrast to the rich ribs.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet, charred corn provides a fresh, summery crunch.
- Corn Avocado Tomato Salad: A vibrant and refreshing salad that cuts through the richness of the meat.
- Grilled Veggies with Pesto: Healthy, flavorful, and a great way to add color and nutrients to your plate.
- Roasted Garlic Veggies: Simple, rustic, and incredibly delicious, these veggies are a perfect savory side.
- Grilled Pineapple: The sweet and slightly tart flavor of grilled pineapple offers a fantastic tropical twist.
- The Best Potato Salad: A classic creamy potato salad is always a hit at any barbecue.
Instant Pot Versatility: Can You Cook Ribs from Frozen?
Absolutely! The Instant Pot is incredibly versatile, and cooking frozen country-style pork ribs works exceptionally well. This is a huge time-saver for those days when you forget to thaw your meat. The good news is that the actual cooking time under pressure will remain the same (32 minutes for this recipe). However, it’s important to note that the Instant Pot will take a significantly longer time to come to pressure when starting with frozen meat. This additional “come-to-pressure” time is not included in the 32-minute cooking time. So, while the active cooking is the same, factor in an extra 10-15 minutes (or more, depending on the thickness and how frozen the ribs are) for the pot to reach full pressure. Keep this in mind when you’re planning dinner, especially if you’re aiming for a specific mealtime!
How Many Ribs Do I Need to Feed a Crowd?
When planning your meal, whether for your immediate family or a larger gathering, a good rule of thumb is to estimate about 2 country-style ribs per adult. This allows for a satisfying portion without being excessive. For children, one rib is typically sufficient. Of course, adjust these estimates based on appetites and what other side dishes you’ll be serving. If you’re hosting a big barbecue, it’s always safer to have a few extra ribs than to run short!
Slow Cooker Option: Can Country-Style Ribs Be Cooked That Way Too?
Yes, absolutely! If your schedule better accommodates a longer, hands-off cooking method, country-style ribs can definitely be cooked in the slow cooker. The slow cooker still delivers incredibly tender results, just over a more extended period. To adapt this recipe for your slow cooker:
- Start by following the initial steps of coating the ribs generously with our flavorful BBQ rub.
- Then, brown the ribs on all sides in a pan on the stove (or in your Instant Pot’s sauté mode if it has one and you prefer to use it for browning). This step is crucial for developing deep flavor, even if you’re slow cooking.
- After browning, transfer the ribs to your slow cooker.
- Pour the apple juice and liquid smoke over the ribs.
- Cook on ‘Low’ setting for 6-8 hours, or on ‘High’ setting for 4-5 hours, until the ribs are wonderfully tender and easily shreddable.
- Once cooked, carefully transfer the ribs to an aluminum foil-lined baking sheet and follow the same broiling instructions (step 6 above) to achieve those crispy, caramelized edges and a true grill-like finish.
This slow cooker method offers a fantastic alternative for those days when you want dinner to cook itself while you go about your day.
Storage and Meal Prep: How Long Will Country-Style Ribs Keep?
These delicious country-style ribs are fantastic for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers, as they store beautifully. To ensure optimal freshness and flavor:
- Refrigeration: Once cooked, allow the ribs to cool completely to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, these ribs freeze exceptionally well. Wrap individual portions tightly in aluminum foil, or place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating:
- From the Refrigerator: Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option. Adding a splash of apple juice or broth before reheating can help maintain moisture.
- From Frozen: For best results, thaw frozen ribs overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Once thawed, follow the refrigeration reheating instructions.
Having these prepped ribs on hand makes for incredibly easy future meals, perfect for busy schedules or unexpected guests!
These Instant Pot country-style ribs are the epitome of tender, juicy, and flavorful comfort food, offering an incredibly quick and easy way to get dinner on the table in under an hour! Our entire family consistently devours them, making them a regular favorite. They’re also a fantastic meal to serve guests, impressive in taste yet simple in preparation. Rich in classic barbecue flavors, these ribs truly embody good ol’ down-home comfort food that satisfies every palate.
More Mouthwatering Ribs Recipes You Should Try:
- Traeger Smoked Ribs
- Smoky BBQ Instant Pot Ribs
- Braised Short Ribs in the Oven
- Sticky Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs
- Asian Sticky Slow Cooker Ribs
- Mustard Carolina BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs
- Korean Oven Braised Short Ribs
- Easy BBQ Ribs
- Blackberry Hoisin BBQ Ribs
Watch How These Country Style Ribs Are Made…
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Instant Pot Country Style Ribs
Carrian Cheney
5 mins
32 mins
39 mins
6
Servings
Ingredients
-
1/3 Cup BBQ Rub
-
1
Tablespoon
Oil -
6-8
Pork Ribs,
Country Style Boneless -
1/2
Cup
Apple Juice -
1
teaspoon
Liquid Smoke -
Homemade BBQ Sauce
Instructions
-
Set aside 1-2 Tablespoons of BBQ Rub.
-
Rub each rib generously with the remaining BBQ rub.
-
Turn the Instant Pot onto the sauté mode, or heat a pan over medium heat if using a stovetop.
-
Add the oil and brown a few ribs at a time, turning to sear each side slightly. Remove to a plate.
-
Turn the sauté mode off.
-
Pour the apple juice and liquid smoke into the bottom of the Instant Pot.
-
Add the trivet to the Instant Pot. Place the browned ribs on top of the trivet.
-
Secure the lid and set the valve to seal.
-
Turn the Instant Pot to manual pressure (or pressure cook), high, and set for 32 minutes.
-
Allow a 10-minute natural pressure release, then carefully turn the valve to do a quick release.
-
Carefully (the ribs will be falling apart) remove the ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet.
-
Set the oven to broil and sprinkle a little more of the reserved rub over the ribs. Broil for up to 3 minutes or until the ribs start to crisp and caramelize slightly. Watch closely to prevent burning.
-
Take the ribs out of the oven and serve immediately with a side of Homemade BBQ Sauce.
Recipe Notes
Cooked ribs will keep for up to 4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
Calories: 529kcal,
Carbohydrates: 2g,
Protein: 12g,
Fat: 21g,
Saturated Fat: 6g,
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g,
Monounsaturated Fat: 8g,
Trans Fat: 0.2g,
Cholesterol: 63mg,
Sodium: 67mg,
Potassium: 212mg,
Fiber: 0.04g,
Sugar: 60g,
Vitamin A: 0.2IU,
Vitamin C: 0.2mg,
Calcium: 14mg,
Iron: 1mg
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
