1. Prepare the Ribs
Start by patting the ribs dry with paper towels. This step helps the seasoning adhere better and ensures a nice crust on the ribs. If the ribs have excess fat, you can trim it off, but leaving some fat will add flavor and juiciness.
2. Season the Ribs
In a small bowl, mix together the smoked paprika, brown sugar, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Rub the olive oil over the ribs, then generously coat them with the seasoning mixture. Make sure to rub the seasoning into all the nooks and crannies for maximum flavor.
3. Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the ribs start cooking immediately and helps achieve a nice sear on the outside.
4. Cook the Ribs
Place the seasoned ribs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. This allows the hot air to circulate around the ribs for even cooking. Cook the ribs at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The ribs should be golden brown and have an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C), but cooking them to around 190°F (88°C) will result in a more tender texture.
5. Optional: Baste with BBQ Sauce
If you’re a fan of sticky, saucy ribs, you can baste the ribs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Simply brush the sauce onto the ribs, return them to the air fryer, and cook until the sauce is caramelized and sticky.
6. Rest and Serve
Once the ribs are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the ribs even more tender. Serve the ribs hot, with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Country Ribs
- Choose the Right Cut: Look for ribs with good marbling, as the fat will render down during cooking, keeping the meat juicy.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For best results, cook the ribs in a single layer. If you’re cooking a large batch, do it in multiple batches to ensure even cooking.
- Adjust Cooking Time: The cooking time can vary depending on the size and thickness of your ribs, so keep an eye on them and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Add a Smoky Flavor: If you love that smoky BBQ flavor, consider adding a few drops of liquid smoke to the seasoning rub or using a smoked BBQ sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Country Ribs are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:
- Coleslaw: A classic, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the ribs.
- Cornbread: Sweet and savory cornbread is a perfect side to mop up any extra BBQ sauce.
- Baked Beans: Smoky, sweet baked beans are a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with ribs.
- Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred veggies add a healthy and flavorful contrast to the meaty ribs.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Country Ribs are the perfect way to enjoy a hearty, meaty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer ensures that the ribs are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor. Whether you prefer them dry-rubbed or slathered in BBQ sauce, these ribs are sure to become a favorite in your household. So, fire up your air fryer and get ready to dig into some seriously delicious ribs!
Did you try this recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Share your experience in the comments below, and let’s talk ribs!