why make this recipe

Making Air Fryer Dry Rub Ribs is a great way to enjoy delicious ribs without the long cooking times. Using an air fryer makes the process quicker and easier while still giving you that tender and flavorful meat. The dry rub adds a rich, savory flavor that enhances the ribs’ natural taste. Plus, it’s a healthier option compared to traditional frying or grilling!

how to make Air Fryer Dry Rub Ribs

Ingredients

1 tablespoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon chili powder (more if you like spicy)
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons liquid smoke (this stuff is fantastic on ribs!)
1 rack of baby back ribs

Directions

In a small bowl, mix your spices, liquid smoke, and olive oil.
Rub it all over the ribs, covering them well.
Place your ribs into the air fryer. The good thing is that you can cut them to fit your air fryer.
Set the temperature to 400 degrees F (air fryer setting) and cook for 20 minutes.
After 20 minutes, use a meat thermometer to check if the ribs are fully cooked. If not, add a few more minutes until the internal temperature shows they are done.
Plate, serve, and enjoy! (Optional: Brush with BBQ sauce and broil for a few minutes to set the glaze.)

how to serve Air Fryer Dry Rub Ribs

These ribs are perfect on their own or paired with sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans. You can also serve them with a variety of sauces for dipping, such as BBQ sauce or spicy mustard. Cut the ribs into portions for easy serving.

how to store Air Fryer Dry Rub Ribs

Store any leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until warm. You can also wrap them in foil and heat them in the oven.

tips to make Air Fryer Dry Rub Ribs

Make sure to evenly coat the ribs with the spice mixture for full flavor.
If you like more spice, feel free to add extra chili powder or your favorite hot sauce to the rub.
Check the internal temperature of the ribs, aiming for at least 145 degrees F to ensure they are safe to eat.
For extra tenderness, let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking before cutting into them.

variation

You can easily switch up the spices based on your taste preferences. Try adding different herbs or spices like smoked paprika or onion powder for a different flavor profile. Alternatively, you can marinate the ribs overnight for even more flavor.

FAQs

Can I use other types of ribs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use spare ribs or St. Louis-style ribs. Just adjust the cooking time based on the size of the ribs.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Most air fryers do not require preheating. However, check your model’s instructions to ensure you are following the best practices.

Can I use store-bought rub instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Using a store-bought dry rub can save time, but making your own allows you to customize the flavors to your liking.