Here’s a juicy, crispy, and super easy Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs recipe — tender on the inside, caramelized on the outside, and packed with flavor in a fraction of the time it takes to cook them in the oven or smoker.
🍖 Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs
🧂 Ingredients:
- 1 rack baby back ribs (about 1.5–2 lbs)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Dry Rub (adjust to taste):
- 2 tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp brown sugar (optional for caramelization)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne (optional for heat)
- 1/2 tsp mustard powder (optional)
BBQ Sauce (for finishing):
- 1/2 cup of your favorite BBQ sauce
🔪 Instructions:
1. Prep the Ribs
- Remove the membrane from the back of the ribs (use a paper towel to grip and peel it off).
- Pat ribs dry and rub with olive oil.
- Cut rack into halves or thirds to fit your air fryer basket.
2. Apply Dry Rub
- Mix all dry rub ingredients in a small bowl.
- Generously rub both sides of the ribs with the spice mix.
3. Air Fry – First Cook
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place rib pieces meaty side down in the basket (don’t overlap).
- Cook for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
4. Sauce & Finish
- Brush ribs with BBQ sauce on both sides.
- Return to air fryer at 400°F (200°C) and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until edges are caramelized and slightly crispy.
🧼 Tips:
- Liner or foil? Avoid foil if it blocks airflow — use perforated liners if desired.
- Crowding: Work in batches if needed. Overcrowding = less crisp.
- Tenderness: For extra tender ribs, marinate with rub overnight or steam/boil ribs briefly before air frying.
🧄 Serving Ideas:
- Serve with: coleslaw, potato wedges, grilled corn, or mac & cheese.
- Extra sauce on the side is a must!