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You got it! Here’s a foolproof recipe for tender, sticky, fall-off-the-bone ribs in the air fryer — quick, delicious, and no oven or grill needed. Perfect for when you’re craving BBQ vibes with less mess.
🍖 Tender & Sticky Air Fryer Ribs
🕒 Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 25–30 mins
Serves: 2–4 (1 rack of ribs)
🧂 Ingredients:
For the ribs:
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1 rack pork baby back ribs (or St. Louis-style), cut into sections to fit in the air fryer
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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2 teaspoons smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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Optional: pinch of cayenne or chili powder for heat
For the sticky glaze:
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1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your favorite)
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1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
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1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth)
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1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tang)
🔥 Instructions:
✅ Step 1: Prep the ribs
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Peel the membrane off the back of the ribs if not already removed (use a paper towel to grip).
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Cut the rack into 2–3 rib sections to fit in your air fryer basket.
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Rub ribs with olive oil, then coat evenly with the spice mix.
✅ Step 2: Air fry low & slow
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Preheat air fryer to 300°F (150°C) — lower temp helps make them tender.
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Place ribs in the basket (meaty side down), in a single layer if possible.
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Cook for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
✅ Step 3: Glaze & crisp
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Mix all glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
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Increase temp to 375°F (190°C).
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Brush ribs with the sticky glaze on both sides.
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Air fry for another 5–10 minutes, flipping and glazing once more halfway, until caramelized, sticky, and slightly charred on the edges.
🍴 Serve with:
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Cornbread or coleslaw
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Pickles and chips
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Grilled veggies or mac and cheese
🔄 Tips:
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Want super tender ribs? Steam them in foil first (in the oven or air fryer with a splash of water) for 20 minutes, then finish with glaze at high heat.
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Use parchment or foil in the basket for easier cleanup — especially with sticky sauces.
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For a twist: try a Korean-style glaze with gochujang and sesame oil, or a honey-mustard BBQ sauce.
Let me know if you want a dry-rub-only version, a boneless rib method, or a low-sugar glaze!