How Long Spoar Ribs Air Fryer Oven

Cooking spare ribs in an air fryer oven is a game-changer for barbecue lovers who want tender, juicy ribs without the long wait of traditional methods. Unlike baby back ribs, spare ribs are larger, meatier, and packed with flavor, but they require a bit more time to cook due to their higher fat content and connective tissue. If you’re wondering how long it takes to get those perfect spare ribs in an air fryer oven, this guide will walk you through the process, including prep tips, cooking times, and pro techniques to ensure your ribs come out crispy on the outside and succulent on the inside.

Why Choose an Air Fryer Oven for Spare Ribs?

An air fryer oven combines the benefits of a convection oven with the compact, high-heat circulation of an air fryer, making it ideal for cooking spare ribs quickly and evenly. The hot air circulates around the ribs, creating a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy. Plus, it’s a healthier option since it requires minimal oil compared to deep-frying or pan-searing. Cleanup is a breeze, and you don’t need to fire up a grill or smoker, which is perfect for weeknight dinners or when the weather isn’t cooperating.

Preparation: Setting the Stage for Perfect Ribs

Before diving into cooking times, let’s talk prep. Properly preparing your spare ribs is crucial for maximizing flavor and tenderness. Here’s what you need to do:

• Remove the Membrane: Spare ribs have a tough membrane (or silverskin) on the bone side that can prevent seasonings from penetrating and make the ribs chewy. Slide a butter knife under the membrane to loosen it, then grab it with a paper towel and pull it off. This step is non-negotiable for tender ribs.
• Trim Excess Fat: While spare ribs are naturally fatty, trimming off excessive fat ensures even cooking and prevents flare-ups in the air fryer oven.
• Season Generously: Create a dry rub with pantry staples like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. For a deeper flavor, let the ribs sit with the rub for at least 30 minutes or, better yet, overnight in the fridge. A great recipe for a homemade rub can be found at The Big Man’s World, which balances sweet and smoky notes perfectly.
• Cut to Fit: Spare ribs are larger than baby back ribs, so you may need to cut the rack into smaller sections to fit your air fryer oven’s basket or tray. Aim for 2-3 rib sections to ensure even cooking.

Cooking Time and Temperature for Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer Oven

The exact cooking time for spare ribs in an air fryer oven depends on the size of the ribs, the power of your appliance, and your desired level of tenderness. Spare ribs generally take longer than baby back ribs due to their size and higher fat content. Here’s a reliable method to achieve tender, juicy spare ribs:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer Oven: Set your air fryer oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the ribs start cooking immediately, locking in juices and creating a crispy exterior.
2. Initial Cooking Phase: Place the ribs bone-side down in the air fryer basket or on the tray in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper air circulation. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping the ribs halfway through to ensure even cooking. This step renders the fat and begins to tenderize the meat.
3. Add BBQ Sauce: After the initial cooking, brush both sides of the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce. A homemade sauce with ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar works wonderfully, or use a store-bought option like Sweet Baby Ray’s. Return the ribs to the air fryer oven, increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C), and cook for an additional 5-8 minutes. This step caramelizes the sauce, giving the ribs a sticky, flavorful glaze.
4. Check Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C). This range ensures the ribs are tender but not falling apart, as spare ribs benefit from a slight chew compared to the fall-off-the-bone texture of baby back ribs.

Total Cooking Time: Expect 30-40 minutes total, depending on the thickness of the ribs and your air fryer oven model. For example, a recipe from Everyday Family Cooking suggests 30-35 minutes for St. Louis-style spare ribs, flipping halfway through for even results.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Oven Spare Ribs

To elevate your ribs from good to great, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t Skip the Resting Period: After cooking, let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful.
• Avoid Overcrowding: If you’re cooking multiple racks, work in batches. Overcrowding leads to uneven cooking and soggy ribs.
• Experiment with Flavors: While classic BBQ sauce is a crowd-pleaser, try a honey garlic glaze or an Asian-inspired mix with hoisin and soy sauce for variety.
• Use Foil for Easy Cleanup: Line the air fryer oven tray with foil to catch drippings, making cleanup a breeze. Just ensure the foil doesn’t block airflow.
• Check Your Model’s Specs: Air fryer ovens vary in wattage and size. For instance, a Cosori model may cook slightly faster than a smaller unit. Adjust times as needed and always check the internal temperature.

Reheating and Storing Spare Ribs

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap the ribs tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the air fryer oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the ribs soggy.

Why Spare Ribs Shine in an Air Fryer Oven

Unlike traditional methods that can take hours, an air fryer oven delivers spare ribs in under an hour with minimal effort. The high-heat circulation mimics the char of a grill while keeping the meat juicy. Plus, the ability to cook indoors year-round makes this method a lifesaver for busy weeknights or rainy days. For more air fryer oven inspiration, check out Allrecipes’ spare ribs recipe for additional seasoning ideas.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your spare ribs with classic BBQ sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or air fryer potato wedges for a complete meal. A cold beer or iced tea complements the smoky, savory flavors perfectly. If you’re hosting a crowd, double the batch and keep cooked ribs warm in a low oven (200°F) while you finish the rest.

With the right prep and timing, your air fryer oven can transform spare ribs into a mouthwatering dish that rivals any barbecue joint. So, fire up your appliance, grab a rack of ribs, and enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal in under 40 minutes!