Print

Crispy Air Fryer Ribs Without Barbecue Sauce

Crispy Air Fryer Ribs Without Barbecue Sauce
Print Recipe

These Crispy Air Fryer Ribs Without Barbecue Sauce prove that ribs don’t need sauce to be incredibly flavorful. Seasoned with a bold dry rub and cooked to perfection in the air fryer, these baby back ribs come out juicy on the inside and beautifully crispy on the outside. They’re perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or whenever you’re craving ribs without the mess or long cooking time.

Ingredients

Scale

  • 3.4 lbs baby back pork ribs

  • 1 tablespoon onion powder

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

  • ⅔ teaspoon salt

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder

  • 2 teaspoons Creole seasoning

  • 1 teaspoon Knorr chicken bouillon powder

  • 1 tablespoon baking powder

  • 1 tablespoon paprika

  • 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon white vinegar

  • 1 lemon (½ for washing, ½ for marinating)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Ribs
    Gather all ingredients. Rinse the ribs with half of the lemon, then pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.

  • Cut the Ribs
    Using a sharp knife, cut the rack into individual ribs so each piece has one bone. You should have about 14 pieces. Place them in a large bowl.

  • Season the Ribs
    Add all seasonings, baking powder, olive oil, vinegar, and the juice from the remaining half lemon to the bowl. Mix well, ensuring every rib is evenly coated. You may let the ribs marinate for extra flavor if desired.

  • Air Fry
    Arrange the ribs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, without overcrowding.
    Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, flipping the ribs halfway through at the 10-minute mark.

  • Check Doneness
    If ribs are not fully cooked or you prefer extra browning, add a few more minutes or slightly increase the temperature.

  • Serve
    Remove ribs from the air fryer. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve hot with your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches for crispier ribs.

  • Cut ribs before cooking to reduce cooking time and ensure even doneness.

  • Coat thoroughly with seasoning for maximum flavor.

  • Go light on salt, as Creole seasoning and bouillon already contain sodium.

  • Baking powder helps create an extra crispy exterior, similar to oven-roasted ribs.

Find it online: https://tastyquickly.com/crispy-air-fryer-ribs-without-barbecue-sauce/