Air Fryer BBQ Ribs

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork baby back ribs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

Instructions

1. Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs if it hasn’t already been removed. Pat the ribs dry with paper towels.
2. Rub both sides of the ribs with olive oil. In a small bowl, combine the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and cumin. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the ribs and gently press it into the meat.
3. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Cut the rack into sections that fit inside your air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer without overcrowding. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Flip the ribs and cook for another 15 minutes.
5. Brush a generous layer of BBQ sauce over both sides of the ribs. Return them to the air fryer and cook for an additional 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) until the sauce becomes sticky and caramelized.
6. Remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Slice between the bones and serve with extra BBQ sauce.

Notes

Removing the membrane makes the ribs more tender. Avoid overcrowding the basket for even cooking. Brush on the BBQ sauce only near the end to prevent burning. For extra smoky flavor, use a hickory or mesquite BBQ sauce. Every air fryer cooks slightly differently, so check for doneness during the final few minutes. Store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Freeze cooked ribs for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until heated through. Brush with additional BBQ sauce before reheating to keep them moist.