I didn’t have an air fryer, so I adapted it for my convection oven and still got amazing results. The ribs were juicy, tender, and full of flavor – a new favorite in my home! Whether you’re craving barbecue but don’t have hours to spend at the grill, air fryer spare ribs are a game-changer. With the right technique, you can achieve that perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy, tender meat in under an hour. Let’s dive into how to cook spare ribs in an air fryer oven, including exact times, temperatures, and tips to ensure they come out perfect every time.
Why Choose an Air Fryer Oven for Spare Ribs?
Air fryer ovens are a fantastic tool for cooking spare ribs because they combine the high heat of convection cooking with a compact space that ensures even cooking. Unlike traditional ovens or grills, which can take hours, air fryer ovens circulate hot air rapidly, creating a crispy exterior while locking in moisture. Spare ribs, which are larger and meatier than baby back ribs, benefit from this method as it reduces cooking time significantly without sacrificing flavor or tenderness. Plus, cleanup is a breeze since you’re not dealing with a greasy grill or multiple pans.
Preparing Your Spare Ribs
Before cooking, preparation is key to getting tender, flavorful ribs. Start by selecting a rack of St. Louis-style spare ribs, which are meatier and have more connective tissue than baby back ribs, making them ideal for air frying. Look for ribs with good marbling and even thickness to ensure consistent cooking. A typical rack weighs about pounds, enough for 2–4 servings depending on appetite.
First, remove the silverskin membrane from the back of the ribs. This thin layer can make the ribs chewy if left on. Slide a butter knife under the membrane to loosen it, then grip it with a paper towel and pull it off. If you’re unsure, ask your butcher to do this for you. Next, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick and promote crispiness.
For seasoning, a dry rub is essential. Combine 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the ribs. For deeper flavor, let the ribs sit with the rub in the refrigerator for 2 hours or overnight. If you’re short on time, you can cook them right away, but marinating enhances the taste.
Cooking Spare Ribs in an Air Fryer Oven
Unlike baby back ribs, which cook faster due to their smaller size, spare ribs require a slightly longer cooking time because of their higher fat content and connective tissue. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get them just right:
the Air Fryer Oven: Set your air fryer oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating ensures the ribs start cooking immediately, which helps with texture. If your air fryer oven doesn’t require preheating, you can skip this step, but most models benefit from 3–5 minutes of warming up.
the Ribs: Spare ribs are larger than baby back ribs, so you may need to cut the rack into 2–3 sections to fit in the air fryer basket or tray. Aim for pieces that lie flat in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Avoid stacking, as this can lead to uneven results.
Cooking: Place the ribs bone-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 25 minutes. Flipping halfway through (around the 12–13-minute mark) ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior. Use tongs to handle the ribs carefully.
BBQ Sauce: After 25 minutes, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You’re aiming for 190–195°F for tender spare ribs. Remove the ribs, brush both sides generously with your favorite barbecue sauce (Sweet Baby Ray’s is a popular choice for its balanced sweetness), and return them to the air fryer meat-side up. Increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes to caramelize the sauce. Watch closely to prevent burning, as the sugar in the sauce can char quickly.
and Serve: Let the ribs rest for 5–10 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce on the side.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Spare Ribs
To elevate your ribs, keep these tips in mind:
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Spare ribs are best when cooked to an internal temperature of 190–195°F. This ensures the fat and connective tissue break down for tenderness without drying out the meat. A reliable thermometer like the Thermapen One is a great investment for precision cooking.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overlapping. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking.
- Experiment with Flavors: While a classic BBQ rub and sauce work wonderfully, try variations like a honey-garlic glaze or an Asian-inspired mix with hoisin and soy sauce for a twist.
- Foil for Easy Cleanup: Line the air fryer basket with foil to catch drippings, but ensure it doesn’t block airflow. Alternatively, spray the basket with non-stick spray.
- Check Your Air Fryer Model: Air fryer ovens vary in power and size. Smaller basket-style models may require slightly longer cooking times, while larger oven-style models (like the Ninja Foodi) can handle a full rack without cutting.
Storing and Reheating
Leftover spare ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until heated through. Add a touch of oil to prevent drying out. Alternatively, reheat in a 250°F oven for 10–15 minutes, wrapped in foil with a splash of water to keep them moist.
Pairing Suggestions
Spare ribs shine with classic BBQ sides. Serve with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans for a traditional meal. For a lighter option, try air-fried vegetables like zucchini or asparagus, which can cook alongside the ribs in a larger air fryer oven. A tangy potato salad or perfect baked potatoes also complement the rich, smoky flavors of the ribs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
From my own trial and error, here are pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Skipping the Membrane Removal: Leaving the silverskin on can make the ribs tough and chewy.
- Applying Sauce Too Early: Adding BBQ sauce at the start can cause it to burn due to the high heat. Save it for the final 5–7 minutes.
- Overcooking: Cooking beyond 195°F can dry out the ribs. Check the temperature early to avoid this.
- Not Resting: Cutting into the ribs right away releases juices, making them less moist. Patience pays off!
Comparing Air Fryer Ovens to Other Methods
Traditional methods like grilling or smoking spare ribs can take 4–6 hours to achieve that fall-off-the-bone texture. Air fryer ovens cut this down to 30–40 minutes while still delivering juicy, tender results. Compared to a regular oven, air fryer ovens cook faster and use less energy due to their smaller size and convection technology. However, they may not replicate the deep smoky flavor of a grill or smoker. If you crave that smokiness, add a touch of liquid smoke to your rub or sauce.
Air Fryer Ribs are so easy to make and you’ll be surprised how well they turn out, with tender meat and perfect crispy edges. My preferred method for making baby back ribs has always been oven-baked, because it’s so simple and produces the most tender ribs, but once I started cooking ribs in the air fryer, I’m now of two minds when it comes to ribs. Why You’ll Love It These Air Fryer Ribs turn out so amazing after just 25 minutes in the air fryer. It’s so simple. They’re done quickly and get crisped just the way you like.
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