The beauty of this Air-Fryer Barbecued Beef Ribs recipe lies in its simplicity and the bold, smoky flavors that the air fryer helps to lock in. By rubbing the ribs with a blend of spices and then cooking them to perfection in the air fryer, you achieve a tender, juicy interior with a delightfully crispy exterior. The final touch of caramelized barbecue sauce adds a sticky, sweet layer that perfectly complements the savory meat. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, these air-fryer ribs deliver mouthwatering results every time.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ribs: Start by patting the beef short ribs dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure that the seasoning adheres well to the meat. After drying, brush the ribs with olive oil on all sides.
- Season the Ribs: In a small bowl, combine the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Rub this spice mixture all over the ribs, ensuring that every part of the meat is evenly coated. This will give the ribs a deep, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the barbecue sauce.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the ribs will cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
- Cook the Ribs: Place the seasoned ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. Cook the ribs for 15 minutes, then flip them over and cook for another 15 minutes. The ribs should be tender and have a nice crust on the outside.
- Add Barbecue Sauce: After the initial cooking, brush the ribs generously with barbecue sauce on all sides. Continue to cook in the air fryer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the sauce has caramelized and become sticky.
- Rest the Ribs: Once the ribs are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring that every bite is juicy and flavorful.
- Serve: Slice the ribs into individual portions and serve with extra barbecue sauce on the side. These ribs are perfect with classic sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
