Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

Quick & Easy Air Fryer Country Style Ribs Recipe — Get ready to savor the mouthwatering goodness of Quick & Easy Air Fryer Country Style Ribs!

This recipe will become your new favorite if you’re craving tender, juicy ribs with a delightful, crisp exterior.

With the magic of the air fryer, you can enjoy restaurant-quality ribs in the comfort of your own kitchen and in a fraction of the time it takes to slow-cook them. Join us on a flavor-packed journey as we show you how to create these delectable ribs with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Your taste buds are in for a treat!

What Are Country Ribs?

Country-style ribs are a type of pork rib that, despite their name, don’t come from the ribcage area of the pig. Instead, they are cut from the blade end of the loin, close to the shoulder of the pig or Boston butt. This cut includes meat and a bit of bone, offering a well-marbled, flavorful, and relatively meaty portion.

Country-style ribs are known for their tenderness and versatility in cooking. They can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, roasting, slow cooking, and, as featured in this recipe, air frying. These ribs are typically meatier and less fatty than traditional spare ribs or baby back ribs, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a hearty and substantial pork dish.

Country-style ribs can be enjoyed with various seasonings and sauces, making them a favorite for barbecues, marinades, or dry rubs. They are a fantastic option for those who appreciate pork flavors and are looking for a convenient and quick way to prepare a delicious meal.

Can You Cook Country Style Pork Ribs In Air Fryer?

Yes, you can cook country-style pork ribs in the air fryer! Air frying is a convenient and efficient method for preparing country-style ribs, as it allows you to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside. 

Perfect for backyard gatherings or a twist on traditional ribs, these are so good!   I served these on top of a great big bowl of salad, and it’s so healthy and amazing. I love healthy meals in the air fryer. If you do not want to serve this over salad, it is excellent with some of my great air fryer side dishes, such as Air Fryer Sweet Potato French Fries or even an Air Fryer Baked Potato.

If you want more Air Fryer rib recipes, try my foolproof recipe for Air Fryer Babyback BBQ Ribs. Since I started using my air fryer four years ago, I make them at least weekly!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

Indulge in the rich, savory goodness of Air Fryer Country Style Ribs with this simple yet mouthwatering recipe. Your choice of seasonings or marinade brings these succulent ribs to life, resulting in a flavorful and tender dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Let’s explore how these simple ingredients combine to create a delightful and hassle-free meal in the air fryer.

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list are below, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post, as well as the nutritional information.

• Country Style Ribs: The star of the dish, country-style pork ribs are known for their meatiness and tenderness, making them a perfect choice for air frying.
• BBQ Sauce: You can choose your family’s favorite!
• Steak Seasoning: Use a pre-made Steak Seasoning or mix salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar.

How To Cook Boneless Country Style Ribs In Air Fryer

Cooking boneless pork ribs in the air fryer is a straightforward process that yields deliciously tender and flavorful results. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C). This ensures that the pork ribs cook evenly and develop a nice exterior.

Prepare the Ribs: Season the boneless pork ribs with your choice of seasonings or marinade. Whether it’s your favorite BBQ sauce, dry rub, or a homemade marinade, coat the ribs thoroughly for maximum flavor. Allow them to marinate for about 10-15 minutes if time allows.

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Place ribs in a single layer at the bottom of the Air Fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.

Air Fry the Ribs: Cook the ribs in the preheated air fryer for approximately 20-25 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, you may want to flip the ribs to ensure they brown evenly on both sides.

Check Doneness: To ensure the ribs are cooked perfectly, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. The pork should reach a safe minimum temperature of 145°F (63°C). Cooking times may vary slightly based on the thickness of the ribs and your specific air fryer model.

Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the boneless pork ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. This redistributes the juices, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite. Slice or serve them as desired.

Optional: Extra Crisp (Optional): You can return the ribs to the air fryer for a few minutes and brush them with a thin layer of BBQ sauce for an even crispier exterior. Be vigilant to prevent overcooking.

Serve: Plate your air-fried boneless pork ribs and serve them as a delectable main course alongside your favorite side dishes.

Enjoy your perfectly cooked Boneless Pork Ribs prepared effortlessly in the air fryer. The crispy exterior and juicy interior make this a delightful dish that will satisfy your taste buds.

Recipe Variations

Air Fryer Boneless ribs offer plenty of opportunities for recipe variations and customizations to suit your taste preferences. Here are some creative recipe variations to consider:

• Savory Dry Rub: Create a savory dry rub by combining paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, brown sugar, and cayenne pepper. Rub this mixture generously onto the ribs before air frying for a flavorful and slightly spicy result.
• Asian-Inspired Marinade: Marinate the boneless country ribs in an Asian-inspired blend of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. This combination will infuse the ribs with a sweet and savory umami flavor.
• Honey Mustard Glaze: Brush the ribs with a honey mustard glaze before air frying for a sweet and tangy twist. The glaze can be made by mixing honey, Dijon mustard, and a splash of apple cider vinegar.
• Smoky Barbecue Sauce: Coat the ribs in your favorite smoky barbecue sauce before air frying. This classic choice delivers a rich, smoky, and tangy flavor.
• Cajun Spice Blend: Create a Cajun-inspired seasoning blend with ingredients like paprika, chili powder, cayenne pepper, thyme, and oregano. Rub this mixture onto the ribs for a zesty, spicy kick.
• Tandoori Marinade: For an Indian-inspired flavor, marinate the ribs in a tandoori-style yogurt-based marinade with spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala.
• Teriyaki Glaze: Glaze the ribs with a sauce made from soy sauce, ginger, garlic, brown sugar, and sake (or mirin). This option provides a sweet and savory Japanese-inspired twist.
• Herb-Crusted Ribs: Create an herb crust by combining fresh or dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley with breadcrumbs. Coat the ribs in this mixture for a flavorful and textured crust.
• Fruit Marinade: Experiment with a fruit-based marinade using ingredients like pineapple juice, orange zest, and brown sugar. The natural sweetness of the fruit will complement the pork.
• Lemon Herb Butter: Top the ribs with a slice of lemon and a pat of herbed butter before air frying. As the butter melts, it infuses the ribs with a rich and aromatic flavor.

Remember to adjust your cooking times and temperatures based on the thickness of the ribs and the specific recipe variations you choose. With these creative options, you can enjoy a variety of delicious air fryer country-style rib dishes to suit any occasion.

Pro Tips 

Achieving perfect Air Fryer Country Style Ribs is within your grasp with these pro tips:

• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer briefly before adding the ribs. This ensures even cooking and helps the exterior crisp up nicely.
• Trim Excess Fat: While country-style ribs have some fat for flavor, excessive fat can result in flare-ups in the air fryer. Trim any excess fat to prevent this.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the ribs accurately. Aim for a minimum of 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63°C) for pork, ensuring they are safe to eat and remain juicy.
• Mind the Size: The thickness of the ribs will impact cooking time. Adjust the cooking time for thicker or thinner cuts to avoid undercooking or overcooking.
• Flip for Even Cooking: Flip the ribs halfway through the cooking time. This helps achieve an even and crispy exterior on both sides.
• Glaze or Sauce at the End: If you’re using a glaze or sauce, apply it during the last few minutes of cooking. This prevents the sugars from burning and enhances the flavor.
• Rest Before Cutting: Allow the cooked ribs to rest briefly before slicing or serving. This lets the juices redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bite.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the ribs in a single layer without overcrowding the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can hinder proper air circulation and cooking.
• Crisp Up (Optional): For an extra-crispy exterior, lightly spritz the ribs with cooking spray before air frying or return them to the air fryer for a few additional minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
• Keep It Clean: Regularly clean your air fryer to prevent any buildup of grease or residue that can affect the cooking process and flavor.

With these pro tips in mind, you’ll master the art of preparing delicious, crispy, and tender Air Fryer Country Style Ribs with ease. Enjoy your flavorful and hassle-free meal!

Faq’s

What are country-style ribs, and why are they called “ribs” if they’re not from the ribcage? Country-style ribs are cut from the blade end of the loin, close to the shoulder or Boston butt. They include both meat and a bit of bone. While they don’t come from the ribcage, they are called “ribs” due to their meaty and rib-like appearance.

What’s the ideal cooking temperature for air fryer country-style ribs? The recommended cooking temperature for air fryer country-style ribs is typically 375°F (190°C). However, it can vary based on the specific recipe and your air fryer model.

How do I prevent my country-style ribs from becoming dry in the air fryer? To prevent dryness, avoid overcooking the ribs. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches at least 145°F (63°C) while avoiding excessive cooking time. Brush the ribs several times during the cooking process with your favorite Barbecue sauce.

Can I use a glaze or sauce on my country-style ribs in the air fryer? You can apply a glaze or sauce to your country-style ribs in the air fryer. However, adding it during the last few minutes of cooking is best to prevent burning due to the sugars in the sauce.

Should I flip the ribs during air frying, and when? Yes, it’s a good practice to flip the ribs halfway through the cooking time. This helps ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides.

Can I cook multiple racks of country-style ribs in the air fryer at the same time? It’s generally recommended to cook only one layer of ribs at a time in the air fryer to allow proper air circulation and even cooking. If you have multiple racks, you may need to cook them in batches.

How long do I let the cooked ribs rest before serving? Let the cooked ribs rest for a few minutes before slicing or serving. This allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a more flavorful and tender bite.

Can I reheat leftover air-fried country-style ribs in the air fryer? Yes, you can reheat leftover air-fried ribs in the air fryer. Reheat them at a lower temperature for a shorter time to avoid overcooking.

Are country-style ribs suitable for different types of seasonings or marinades? Yes, country-style ribs are versatile and can be seasoned or marinated with various flavors, including dry rubs, barbecue sauce, marinades, or any seasonings that suit your taste.

How do I clean my air fryer after cooking country-style ribs?– Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning your air fryer. Typically, you can remove and clean the basket, tray, and other removable parts with warm, soapy water or in a dishwasher.

How to store leftover Country Style Ribs: Let the ribs cool to room temperature and place them into an airtight container or freezer bag. The cooked ribs will last in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Brush the ribs with additional BBQ sauce before reheating for the best flavor.

More Air Fryer Recipes

• Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
• Air Fryer French Fries
• Air Fryer Onion Rings
• instant Pot Stuffing
• Instant Pot Apple Sauce

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