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Air Fryer BBQ Ribs (Tender & Sticky)

These air fryer BBQ ribs are tender, juicy, and coated in a rich, caramelized barbecue sauce—without the grill or long cooking time. A practical, foolproof method that delivers comforting BBQ flavor fast, perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Pork baby back ribs membrane removed, cut into sections
  • Neutral oil avocado or vegetable oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Paprika or smoked paprika
  • BBQ sauce sweet, smoky, or your favorite style

Method
 

  1. Pat the ribs dry and remove the membrane from the back if present.
  2. Lightly coat ribs with oil and season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
  3. Preheat the air fryer briefly, then arrange ribs in a single layer, bone-side down.
  4. Cook at moderate heat, flipping once halfway through, until ribs are tender and cooked through.
  5. Brush ribs generously with BBQ sauce.
  6. Increase the temperature slightly and return ribs to the air fryer for a short final cook until the sauce is glossy and caramelized.
  7. Rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Remove the membrane for best tenderness.
Add BBQ sauce only at the end to avoid burning.
Cook in batches if needed to ensure even airflow.