This Air Fryer Spare Ribs recipe is a fast way to get flavorful and juicy ribs in a short amount of time. Coated with a homemade dry rub, these tender ribs will be ready in just 30 minutes! Pair with a few easy sides and you’ll have a delicious and filling meal. Spare ribs are some of my favorite types of ribs. The meat just tends to be juicier, meatier, and full of flavor. I’ve not met a spare rib that I didn’t devour, and cooking them in the air fryer proves that to be true. Since there are minimal ingredients and steps to make ribs in the air fryer, get ready to be hooked. It’s also a great way to not have to fire up the grill for hours (like with 3 2 1 ribs) during the coldest times of the year and still enjoy a meaty and delicious rib dinner. All that our recipe needs are some hearty sides to pair with it and you’ve got yourself quite the feast.
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, bold flavor that stands up well to quick cooking methods like air frying. Unlike baby back ribs, which are leaner and cook faster, spare ribs have more connective tissue, which breaks down beautifully in the air fryer, resulting in juicy, tender meat with a crispy exterior. The high fat content ensures they stay moist, even in the intense heat of an air fryer, making them an ideal choice for this method. However, their size and thickness mean you’ll need to adjust cooking times slightly compared to baby back ribs, and cutting them into smaller sections is key to fitting them in most air fryer baskets.
Preparing Spare Ribs for the Air Fryer
To get the best results, preparation is crucial. Start by selecting a rack of spare ribs that are well-marbled with fat for maximum flavor and tenderness. A typical rack weighs about to 3 pounds and contains 11 to 13 bones. If the ribs haven’t been trimmed, ask your butcher to remove the rib tips to make them St. Louis-style, which are more uniform and easier to fit in an air fryer. Next, remove the tough membrane (silverskin) from the bone side 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 seasoning penetrates the meat and prevents a chewy texture. If the membrane is left on, it can block flavors and make the ribs tougher to eat.
Once the membrane is removed, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to help the seasoning adhere. For a basic yet flavorful dry rub, 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 heat. Rub this mixture generously over both sides of the ribs. For deeper flavor, let the ribs marinate in the fridge for 1-2 hours, or even overnight if you have time. This allows the spices to penetrate the meat, enhancing both taste and tenderness. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating, but it does make a noticeable difference.
Cooking Spare Ribs in the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes to ensure even cooking. If your air fryer is small, cut the rack into 2-3 sections to fit in a single layer without overcrowding, which is critical for proper air circulation and crispiness. Spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. Place the ribs meat-side down and cook for 15 minutes. Flip them carefully with tongs, then cook for another 12-15 minutes. To keep the ribs juicy, mist them with a little broth or apple juice halfway through cooking. This adds moisture and a subtle sweetness that complements the pork.
After about 27-30 minutes, check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Spare ribs are best when cooked to 190-203°F (88-95°C), as this allows the connective tissue to break down, making the meat tender but not falling off the bone. Once they hit this range, brush both sides with your favorite barbecue sauce—Serious Eats has a great homemade BBQ sauce recipe if you want to make your own. Increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes to caramelize the sauce, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze. Be careful not to overcook at this stage, as the sugar in the sauce can burn quickly.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Spare Ribs
- Don’t Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking. Overlapping ribs can lead to uneven texture and longer cooking times.
- Use a Thermometer: A digital meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the ribs are cooked to the right temperature without cutting into them, which can release juices.
- Customize the Flavor: Experiment with different rubs or sauces. For an Asian-inspired twist, try a glaze with soy sauce, ginger, and hoisin, as suggested by Taste of Home. For a smoky kick, add a touch of liquid smoke to the rub.
- Rest the Ribs: Let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes after cooking to lock in juices before slicing and serving.
If your air fryer model runs hot, reduce the temperature by 5-10°F and check the ribs a few minutes early to avoid scorching. Different air fryers vary in power, so keep an eye on the ribs, especially during the final saucing stage.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Leftover spare ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil to preserve moisture, then place in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the air fryer at 350°F for 7-8 minutes or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. For a quick option, microwave for 20-30 seconds, but this may affect the texture. Reheating in the air fryer helps maintain the crispy exterior.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer spare ribs pair beautifully with classic BBQ sides. Try serving them with coleslaw, cornbread, or air fryer baked potatoes for a complete meal. For a low-carb option, pair with roasted vegetables like air fryer Brussels sprouts or a fresh cucumber salad. If you’re feeding a crowd, cook the ribs in batches and keep them warm in a low oven (200°F) until ready to serve. Add extra barbecue sauce on the side for dipping to enhance the experience.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your ribs come out dry, you may have overcooked them or skipped the misting step. To avoid this, check the internal temperature early and ensure proper marinating. If the ribs aren’t crispy enough, ensure the basket isn’t overcrowded and pat the ribs dry before seasoning. Smoke from the air fryer can occur if grease drips to the bottom; adding a small amount of water or a slice of bread under the basket can catch drippings and prevent this. If the ribs don’t fit, cut them into smaller sections or cook in batches, as stacking can lead to uneven cooking.
These Air Fryer Spare Ribs are easy to make and give you a delicious and tender main dish to share with your loved ones! Finally, all air fryers cook differently, so cooking times are always a basic guideline. Recipes should always be tested first in your own air fryer and time adjusted as needed.
Add a Comment