Air Fryer Memphis-Style BBQ Pork Ribs
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 1/4 pounds individually cut St. Louis–style pork spareribs
Directions
- 1
In a large bowl, whisk together the salt, brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, poultry seasoning, mustard powder, and pepper. Add the ribs and toss and rub the seasonings into them with your hands until they’re fully coated.
- 2
Arrange the ribs in the air fryer basket standing up on their ends and leaned up against the wall of the basket and each other. Cook at 350°F until the ribs are tender inside and golden brown and crisp on the outside, about 35 minutes. Transfer the ribs to plates and serve hot.
Air Fryer Memphis-Style BBQ Pork Ribs
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About this Recipe
Craving that authentic, tender, Memphis-style BBQ rib experience without the fuss of a smoker? This Air Fryer Memphis-Style BBQ Pork Ribs recipe brings unbelievably delicious results right into your kitchen, making legendary barbecue accessible to every home cook.
The magic of this recipe lies in its meticulously balanced dry rub. A symphony of savory, sweet, and aromatic spices—including sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of mustard powder—clings to every inch of the St. Louis–style pork spareribs. The air fryer then works its wonders, creating a beautifully caramelized exterior while ensuring the pork stays incredibly juicy and tender, mimicking the low-and-slow perfection of traditional pit-smoked ribs.
Prepare for a feast of deeply seasoned, fall-off-the-bone ribs that burst with flavor. Each bite offers a robust profile, starting with the complex spices of the dry rub, culminating in succulent pork that pulls away effortlessly. These ribs are a true celebration of Memphis barbecue, delivering that signature dry-rubbed perfection without the need for additional sauce, letting the quality of the pork and the rub shine through. You'll savor a slight sweetness balanced by savory herbs and a gentle warmth from the spices, leaving you wanting more.
While this recipe shines with individually cut St. Louis–style spareribs, you can explore other cuts like baby back ribs, keeping in mind that cooking times will need adjustment. For those who enjoy a little extra kick, a small pinch of cayenne pepper can be added to the dry rub. Don't have poultry seasoning? A blend of dried sage, thyme, and rosemary in equal parts can offer a similar aromatic depth.
These Memphis-style ribs are ideal for a casual weekend meal, a backyard gathering, or any occasion where you desire impressive, flavorful barbecue with minimal effort. Serve them alongside classic picnic sides like creamy coleslaw, baked beans, or a fresh potato salad for a complete and satisfying meal.