Instant Pot Sticky BBQ Beef Ribs

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 45

Total Time 55

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4

Instant Pot or any pressure cooker Cuts down the cooking time dramatically while locking in flavor and tenderness.
Tongs For easily handling the ribs without tearing the meat.
Small bowl To mix the spice rub.
Brush or spoon To apply the sticky glaze.
Baking sheet + oven broiler (optional) For a caramelized finish if you like your ribs a bit crispy on top.
Alternative options No Instant Pot? These can easily be adapted for beef ribs in the oven—just bake covered at 300°F for 2.5–3 hours, then broil with sauce for that sticky glaze.

3 lbs beef back ribs can substitute with beef baby back ribs or boneless beef ribs if preferred
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp smoked paprika
1 tbsp garlic powder
2 tsp onion powder
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper optional for heat
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 cup BBQ sauce your favorite kind, store-bought or homemade
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

Pat the beef back ribs dry with paper towels. If there's a silverskin membrane on the underside, remove it for best texture.

In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper.

Using the sauté mode on your Instant Pot, brown the ribs in batches for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

Pour beef broth and apple cider vinegar into the pot, scraping up any browned bits.

Place ribs in the pot, standing them up around the edges if needed. Seal and cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then manually release any remaining pressure.

While ribs are cooking, mix BBQ sauce, honey, and Worcestershire sauce in a small bowl.

Transfer ribs to a foil-lined baking sheet. Brush with glaze and broil in the oven for 5 minutes until sticky and caramelized.