How Long to Cook Spare Ribs in Air Fryer

How Long to Cook Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking spare ribs in an air fryer is a game-changer for anyone who loves tender, juicy ribs but doesn’t want to spend hours firing up a grill or smoker. The air fryer’s ability to circulate hot air ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the meat succulent, all in a fraction of the time. But how long does it take to cook spare ribs in an air fryer, and how can you ensure they turn out perfectly every time? In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process, share tips for getting the best results, and answer common questions to help you master air fryer spare ribs.

Why Choose Spare Ribs for the Air Fryer?

Spare ribs, cut from the belly of the pig, are meatier and fattier than baby back ribs, offering a rich flavor that pairs beautifully with a smoky spice rub or tangy barbecue sauce. Their higher fat content makes them ideal for the air fryer, as the circulating air helps render the fat, creating a crispy exterior without drying out the meat. However, because they’re larger and have more connective tissue than baby back ribs, spare ribs require slightly longer cooking times to achieve tenderness. The air fryer’s compact cooking environment ensures even heat distribution, making it easier to cook these ribs to perfection in under an hour.

How Long to Cook Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer

The cooking time for spare ribs in an air fryer typically ranges from 30 to 35 minutes at a temperature of 370°F to 400°F, depending on the thickness of the ribs and the specific air fryer model. Unlike baby back ribs, which are leaner and cook faster, spare ribs need a bit more time to break down their connective tissue and reach the desired tenderness. Here’s a general timeline for cooking a rack of spare ribs:

• Initial Cook: 25-30 minutes at 380°F, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.
• Sauce Application: 5-10 additional minutes at 400°F after brushing with barbecue sauce to caramelize the glaze.
• Resting Time: 5-10 minutes after cooking to lock in juices.

For the best results, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The USDA recommends cooking pork to a minimum of 145°F, but for tender spare ribs, aim for 190°F to 200°F to ensure the connective tissue softens and the meat becomes juicy and pull-apart tender.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Air Fryer Spare Ribs

Here’s a detailed recipe to guide you through cooking delicious spare ribs in your air fryer. This method balances speed and flavor, delivering ribs that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

Ingredients

• 1 rack of pork spare ribs ( pounds)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or neutral cooking oil
• 3 tablespoons homemade or store-bought BBQ spice rub (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, chili powder, salt, and pepper)
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (try Serious Eats’ homemade BBQ sauce for a rich, tangy flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ribs: Start by removing the membrane (silverskin) from the back of the ribs. Slide a knife under the membrane to loosen it, then grip it with a paper towel and pull it off. This step ensures the ribs absorb the seasoning and become tender. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help the rub adhere.
2. Season the Ribs: Rub the ribs with olive oil, then generously coat both sides with the BBQ spice rub. For deeper flavor, let the ribs marinate in the fridge for 1-2 hours, or overnight if you have time.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 380°F and preheat for 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and prevents the ribs from sticking to the basket.
4. Cook the Ribs: Cut the rack into 2-3 sections to fit in the air fryer basket. Place the ribs in a single layer, bone-side down, to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 15 minutes, then flip the ribs and cook for another 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature reaches 190°F.
5. Add BBQ Sauce: Brush both sides of the ribs with barbecue sauce. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F and cook for an additional 5 minutes to caramelize the sauce, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist, tender meat. Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Spare Ribs

To elevate your ribs and avoid common pitfalls, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers rely on circulating air for even cooking. If your air fryer is small, cook the ribs in batches to ensure they crisp up properly.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Checking the internal temperature is the most reliable way to know when your ribs are done. Aim for 190°F to 200°F for tender results. A good thermometer, like the one recommended by Bon Appétit, makes this easy.
• Mist for Extra Juiciness: Lightly mist the ribs with apple juice or broth halfway through cooking to keep them moist, especially if your air fryer runs hot.
• Customize the Flavor: Experiment with rubs or sauces to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add cayenne to the rub. For an Asian-inspired twist, try a hoisin-based glaze.
• Line the Basket: Place a piece of foil or parchment paper under the ribs to catch drippings and make cleanup easier. Avoid covering the ribs completely, as this can trap steam and prevent crisping.

Common Questions About Cooking Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer

Can I cook spare ribs from frozen? Yes, but it’s not ideal. Frozen ribs take longer to cook (about 40-45 minutes) and may not absorb seasonings as well. For best results, thaw the ribs in the fridge overnight or rinse under warm water to remove ice crystals before seasoning and cooking.

Will spare ribs be as tender as slow-cooked ribs? Air fryer spare ribs won’t be quite as fall-off-the-bone as those cooked low and slow in a smoker or oven, but they can still be incredibly tender when cooked to the right internal temperature (190°F-200°F). The air fryer’s high heat creates a crispy exterior with a juicy interior, perfect for those who enjoy a bit of chew.

How do I reheat leftover ribs? Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the ribs juicy and prevents them from drying out.

Pairing Suggestions

Spare ribs are a hearty dish that pairs well with classic BBQ sides. Try serving them with coleslaw, air fryer corn on the cob, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. For a low-carb option, pair with a fresh cucumber salad or roasted Brussels sprouts. If you’re hosting a crowd, double the recipe and keep cooked ribs warm in a low oven (150°F) while preparing additional batches.

Why the Air Fryer Works So Well

The air fryer’s rapid air circulation mimics the char of a grill while keeping the cooking process mess-free and quick. Unlike traditional methods that require hours of slow cooking, the air fryer delivers tender, flavorful spare ribs in about 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or impromptu gatherings. Plus, it uses less oil than frying or baking, resulting in a healthier dish without sacrificing taste.

For more air fryer inspiration, check out The Kitchn’s collection of air fryer recipes. With a little practice, your air fryer spare ribs will rival any barbecue joint’s, and you’ll have a go-to recipe for juicy, flavorful ribs any time the craving strikes.