Air Fryer Baby Back Ribs
Tender, juicy inside with a sticky, caramelized crust — no grill needed!
Ingredients
1 rack baby back ribs (about 2–2½ lbs)
1 tbsp olive oil
Dry Rub:
1 tbsp brown sugar
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp chili powder (optional)
For Finishing:
½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
Instructions
Prep the Ribs
Remove the thin membrane from the back of the ribs (slide a knife under it and pull off with a paper towel).
Pat dry with paper towels.
Rub olive oil all over the ribs.
Season
Mix all dry rub ingredients together.
Coat ribs evenly on both sides.
Cut the rack in half if needed to fit your air fryer.
Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C).
Place ribs meat-side down in the basket.
Cook for 20 minutes.
Flip and cook another 15–20 minutes, until tender and internal temp reaches about 190–200°F for fall-apart texture.
Sauce & Caramelize
Brush ribs generously with BBQ sauce.
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes until sauce bubbles and caramelizes.
Rest & Serve
Let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing.