You don't need a smoker for great ribs — the air fryer cooks them tender, then a glaze at high heat makes them sticky. The trick is low and slow first, sauce second. Here's how.
Key takeaways
Q: How do you cook ribs in an air fryer?
A: Cook at 160°C (320°F) for about 30 minutes, then glaze and blast at 200°C (400°F) for 5–8 minutes until sticky.
Q: Do you remove the membrane?
A: Yes — peel the thin membrane off the back so the ribs turn tender and take on flavour.
The method
Season the ribs with a dry rub, cut the rack to fit, and cook low at 160°C so they turn tender. Then brush with BBQ sauce and crank to 200°C for a few minutes so it caramelises into a sticky glaze.
The recipe
Sticky Air Fryer Pork Ribs
Ingredients
- 1 rack pork ribs, cut to fit
- 1 tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic granules, salt
- 4 tbsp BBQ sauce
Method
- Remove the membrane; rub with the dry spices.
- Air fry at 160°C for 30 minutes.
- Brush with BBQ sauce; cook at 200°C for 5–8 min.
- Rest 5 minutes, then serve.
Tips
- Cut the rack to fit the basket.
- Glaze last so the sugars don't burn.
- Serve with BBQ chicken and slaw for a feast.
Frequently asked questions
How long do ribs take in an air fryer?
About 38 minutes total — 30 minutes at 160°C to tenderise, then 5–8 minutes at 200°C with sauce to glaze.
Should you remove the membrane from ribs?
Yes — peeling off the thin membrane on the back lets them cook tender and absorb the rub and sauce.
Can you cook ribs from frozen?
It's better to defrost first for even cooking. If needed, add time at 160°C and check they're hot through before glazing.