After a busy week, I often crave something hearty that brings the family together—something like juicy, tender country-style ribs. The moment you sink your teeth into them, flavors explode, and the stress of the day seems to melt away. I was lucky enough to discover how quick and easy these Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs can be.
On a recent Sunday, I experienced that typical afternoon struggle: what to prepare for dinner? With just a few simple ingredients and my trusty Instant Pot, I whipped up a dish that felt extravagant without the hassle. The aromatic blend of spices and tangy sauce envelops the ribs, making each bite a delightful surprise. Whether you’re looking to impress at your next family gathering or just want an easy weeknight meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes—tender, flavorful, and stress-free. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
Why are Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Melt-in-your-mouth goodness: The Instant Pot ensures that the ribs become tender quickly while locking in incredible flavors.
Versatile: Pair these ribs with your favorite sides, or enjoy them on their own—perfect for any meal.
Crowd-pleaser: Impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes gourmet without demanding hours in the kitchen.
Get ready to savor a homemade feast that you can whip up in no time—the ideal recipe for fans of easy weeknight dinners.
Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs Ingredients
• Unleash a flavor-packed experience with these succulent ribs!
For the Ribs
- 1 pound boneless country-style pork ribs – cut into 2-inch chunks for even cooking.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion salt – enhances the savory depth of flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper – adds a subtle kick to balance the richness.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika – brings a touch of warmth and color to the dish.
For the Cooking Liquid
- 2 teaspoons canola oil – necessary for browning the ribs and adding richness.
- 1 cup water – helps create a moist environment in the Instant Pot.
- 2 tablespoons ketchup – contributes a touch of sweetness that complements the meat.
- 2 teaspoons white vinegar – introduces a tangy acidity that brightens the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – adds a complex umami flavor to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon prepared mustard – offers a delightful hint of spice and zest.
- 1/8 teaspoon celery seed – enhances the overall flavor profile with a subtle note of earthiness.
This recipe for Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs is not only simple to make but allows you to enjoy richly flavored, tender ribs without spending hours in the kitchen!
How to Make Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs
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Heat oil: Start by heating canola oil in your Instant Pot using the sauté function. This step ensures a nice sear for the flavorful ribs.
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Season meat: Sprinkle onion salt, pepper, paprika, and celery seed over the pork ribs. Give them a gentle mix, letting all those spices infuse into the meat.
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Brown the ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in the heated pot. Brown on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side, until they are a beautiful golden color.
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Mix sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the water, ketchup, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and prepared mustard. This tangy concoction will play a crucial role in tenderizing the ribs!
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Combine and cook: Pour the sauce mixture over the browned ribs, ensuring they’re well-coated. Close the lid securely and set to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes.
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Rest and serve: After cooking, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining steam. Serve the ribs hot, garnished with your favorite herbs, if desired.
Optional: Pair with coleslaw and cornbread for a classic meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a fantastic meal with minimal last-minute effort. You can season the pork ribs up to 24 hours in advance, placing them in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld beautifully. If you’re looking to prepare a bigger batch, the cooked ribs can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. To maintain their succulent quality, allow them to cool before storing them in an airtight container. When it’s time to serve, simply reheat the ribs in your Instant Pot using the sauté function until they’re warmed through, and enjoy your delicious homemade meal with ease!
Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs Variations
Feel free to explore different flavor combinations that can make this dish uniquely yours!
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BBQ Twist: Substitute ketchup with your favorite barbecue sauce for an added smoky flavor. This brings an entirely new dimension to the dish!
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to amp up the heat level. Adjust according to how fiery you like your ribs—you’ll love the warmth with each bite!
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Honey Glaze: Drizzle honey into the sauce mixture for a sweet finish that balances the tang. This creates a luxurious, sticky glaze that’s irresistible on tender meat.
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Herb Infusion: Toss in a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme during cooking for herbal undertones. These aromatics will elevate the dish and fill your kitchen with an enchanting fragrance!
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Citrus Zing: Squeeze in the juice of a lemon or orange to brighten the sauce. This addition creates a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, making it even more delightful.
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Asian Influence: Use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce and add sesame oil for an umami-packed twist. Serve with rice to complete the theme—perfect for an Asian-inspired meal!
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Vegetarian Option: Swap in jackfruit or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly version. Adjust cooking times as needed; your guests will be amazed at this creative twist!
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Smoky Flavors: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. This gives your ribs that irresistible smoky essence while still providing the expected depth of flavor.
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs
Fridge: Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They’ll be ready to reheat for an easy, comforting meal!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked ribs in a resealable bag or airtight container for up to 3 months. Make sure to remove as much air as possible.
Reheating: To reheat chilled or frozen ribs, microwave or warm them on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of cooking liquid can help retain moisture.
Flavor Preservation: When storing, try to keep the ribs submerged in sauce to maintain their delicious flavor from your Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs?
Bring your dinner table to life with vibrant and complementary sides that enhance the delightful flavors of your tender ribs.
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Creamy Coleslaw: A crunchy and tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, meaty ribs, balancing the dish beautifully. Its crisp texture and zesty dressing make it a perfect pairing.
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Buttery Cornbread: This sweet, soft bread is an ideal accompaniment to soak up the savory sauce from the ribs. Every bite brings comfort, making it a household favorite.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Rich and creamy mashed potatoes create a luscious pairing that rounds out the meal. Their smoothness pairs perfectly with the tender rib texture.
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Grilled Veggies: A colorful assortment of grilled vegetables adds a healthy touch and vibrant visual appeal to your plate. Their smoky flavor enhances the overall experience.
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Baked Beans: This classic dish brings a delightful sweetness and texture to the table, complementing the meaty flavor of the ribs. The rustic comfort of baked beans always satisfies appetites.
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Sweet Pickles: This tangy-sweet accompaniment punctuates each bite of savory ribs, adding a burst of flavor that brightens the entire meal. Their crunch and acidity will keep everyone coming back for more.
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Iced Tea or Lemonade: A cool glass of iced tea or homemade lemonade quench your thirst and contrasts well with the warm, hearty meal. The refreshing flavors are delightful!
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Brownies: Finish off your meal with a rich brownie for a decadent dessert. Its fudgy texture and deep chocolate flavor provide a sweet conclusion to the hearty feast.
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs
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Perfectly Seasoned: Make sure to season the pork ribs thoroughly before browning. This helps the flavors permeate the meat.
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Searing Matters: Don’t skip the browning step! It adds depth and richness to the ribs, enhancing the overall taste of your dish.
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Check Liquid Levels: If using a larger cut of ribs, ensure enough liquid is present in the Instant Pot to prevent burning and ensure tender results.
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Natural Release: Allow the pressure to release naturally for the best texture. This step helps the ribs stay juicy and tender.
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Serving Suggestions: These Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs pair beautifully with sides like mashed potatoes or a fresh garden salad for balanced meals.
Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs Recipe FAQs
What do I look for when selecting pork ribs?
Absolutely! When choosing your country-style pork ribs, look for meat that has a pinkish-red color with a good amount of marbling. Avoid ribs that have dark spots or a grayish hue, as these indicate that the meat may not be fresh.
How should I store leftover Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs?
Very! Store your leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick meal, ensuring they stay juicy by adding a splash of the cooking liquid.
Can I freeze Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the ribs cool completely, then place them in a resealable freezer bag or airtight container, removing as much air as possible. They’re best used within 3 months for optimal flavor.
What should I do if my ribs are tough?
If you find your ribs are tough, it may be due to not cooking them long enough. For tougher cuts, consider increasing the cooking time by an additional 10-15 minutes in the Instant Pot. Always allow a natural release after cooking to let the fibers relax and tenderize.
Are Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs suitable for a keto diet?
Absolutely! These ribs are low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making them a great option for those following a keto lifestyle. Just ensure your accompanying sides align with your dietary needs.
Can dogs eat pork ribs?
No, it’s best to avoid giving cooked pork ribs to dogs, especially those bones, as they can splinter and pose a choking hazard or cause internal damage. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.
Savory Instant Pot Country-Style Ribs for Fast Flavor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by heating canola oil in your Instant Pot using the sauté function.
- Sprinkle onion salt, pepper, paprika, and celery seed over the pork ribs and mix.
- Brown the seasoned ribs in the heated pot for about 3-4 minutes per side.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together water, ketchup, white vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and mustard.
- Pour the sauce mixture over the browned ribs and close the lid securely.
- Set to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, then allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
- Serve the ribs hot, garnished with your favorite herbs.