Air Fryer Boneless Beef Ribs: Quick, Easy, And Delicious

Cooking boneless beef ribs in an air fryer is a fast and easy way to enjoy tender and juicy meat. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the ribs and the specific model of your air fryer, but on average, boneless beef ribs will take around 10-35 minutes to cook in an air fryer. This is significantly faster than traditional cooking methods, which can take up to 10 hours. To cook boneless beef ribs in an air fryer, you will first need to prepare a dry rub or marinade for the ribs to sit in. Then, preheat your air fryer to around 325-380°F and cook the ribs for the desired time, brushing with BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.

Air fryer temperature and cooking time

The cooking time for boneless beef ribs in an air fryer depends on the thickness of the ribs and the specific model of the air fryer. For thicker-cut pieces (1.5-inch thickness), air fry for 9 minutes for medium-rare or 10 minutes for medium. If you are cooking a half rack of ribs, they will be done in about 35 minutes at 320º Fahrenheit.

For boneless country-style ribs, preheat your air fryer to 325˚ Fahrenheit for 5-6 minutes. Drizzle olive oil on top of the ribs and place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry at 325˚ Fahrenheit for 12 minutes. After 12 minutes, flip each rib over and cook for another 12 minutes.

For boneless short ribs with a Korean marinade, air fry for 10 minutes. After air frying, let the ribs rest for 5-8 minutes before serving.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the size and model of your air fryer, so adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How to prepare the ribs before cooking

Preparing your boneless beef ribs before cooking is a crucial step in the cooking process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your ribs for the best results:

Choosing the Right Ribs:

Start by selecting the right cut of boneless ribs for your air fryer. Look for ribs that are not too small, as this will allow you to fit more meat into the air fryer in a single batch. Aim for a thickness of around 1 1/4 to 1 1/2 inches.

Marinating the Ribs:

For maximum flavour, it is recommended to marinate your ribs before cooking. You can use a store-bought BBQ spice rub or make your own by mixing spices and herbs such as garlic powder, chilli powder, brown sugar, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, paprika, cumin, onion powder, and pepper. Coat each rib generously with the spice rub, making sure to cover both sides. If you have the time, let the ribs marinate in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight, to allow the spices to penetrate the meat.

Bringing the Meat to Room Temperature:

Before cooking, take the ribs out of the refrigerator and let them come as close to room temperature as possible. This step helps ensure even cooking and prevents the ribs from drying out during the cooking process.

Pre-Cooking Preparation:

When you are ready to cook, preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature, typically around 325 to 380 degrees Fahrenheit. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil on top of the ribs to prevent them from sticking to the air fryer basket. Additionally, spray the bottom of the basket with a non-stick cooking spray for extra insurance against sticking.

Assembly:

Place the ribs in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overlapping. If you have an extra-large air fryer, you may be able to fit more ribs, but avoid stacking them if possible, as this will increase the cooking time.

By following these preparation steps, you will be well on your way to cooking juicy and tender boneless beef ribs in your air fryer.

How to season the ribs

To season your boneless beef ribs before air frying, you can use a dry rub. This can be as simple as salt and pepper, or you can include spices such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, onion powder, chili powder, and brown sugar. If you like your ribs spicy, add some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Mix your chosen spices in a small bowl, then sprinkle the blend on both sides of the ribs. Massage the mixture into the meat to ensure the spices stick during cooking. If you have the time, let the ribs rest for at least an hour, or even overnight, to allow the seasoning to penetrate the meat.

When you're ready to cook, take the ribs out of the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature. Drizzle a little olive oil on top of the ribs to prevent them from sticking to the air fryer, and spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray.

How to know when the ribs are cooked

Cooking boneless beef ribs in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get delicious, juicy, and tender results. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of your ribs and the model of your air fryer, but there are a few key indicators to look out for to know when your ribs are cooked to perfection.

Firstly, it is important to note that the internal temperature of your ribs is the most accurate way to determine doneness. For juicy ribs that are cooked through, aim for an internal temperature of 195°F. This temperature will ensure that all the connective tissue breaks down, resulting in tender meat. Some sources suggest that you can cook the ribs until they reach an internal temperature of 190°F, but for the best texture, it is advisable to aim for the higher temperature.

To check the internal temperature, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat, making sure not to touch any bones, and check that the temperature falls within the desired range. If you do not have a meat thermometer, you can also look for other signs of doneness.

Visual cues, such as the appearance of the meat, can also indicate whether your ribs are cooked. When ribs are done, they will usually be a deep brown color with some charring or browning around the edges. The meat may also appear to be slightly shrunk and pulled back from the ends of the bones. However, it is important to note that visual cues may not always be accurate, as the level of doneness can vary depending on the cut and thickness of the meat.

Additionally, you can also test the doneness of the ribs by poking or prodding the meat with a fork or tongs. If the ribs are cooked, the meat should feel tender and yield easily to the touch. If the meat is still tough and resistant, it may need more time to cook.

By following these guidelines and using a combination of temperature readings and visual and tactile cues, you can confidently determine when your boneless beef ribs are cooked perfectly in the air fryer.

What to serve with the ribs

Now that you know how to cook boneless beef ribs in an air fryer, it's time to think about what to serve with them. Here are some ideas for side dishes that will complement your juicy, tender ribs:

Classic Coleslaw

A traditional favourite, coleslaw is a must-have side dish when serving ribs. The sweet, meaty ribs go perfectly with the tangy, creamy, and crunchy coleslaw. It's a classic combination that never gets old.

Cornbread

Cornbread is another classic side dish for ribs. You can serve it as muffins, making it easier for your guests to enjoy them while holding a rib! Don't forget to serve them with soft, spreadable butter.

Baked Beans

Baked beans are a staple side dish for barbecue ribs. They provide a sweet and savoury contrast to the rich, tangy ribs. If you're looking for something a little different, try adding some jalapeno cheddar to your cornbread for an extra kick.

Mac and Cheese

Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a perfect comfort food and a great side dish for ribs. It's especially delicious when paired with cornbread or corn casserole. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding some spices or herbs to your mac and cheese for an extra flavour boost.

Roasted Potatoes and Vegetables

Roasted baby potatoes are a delicious option to serve alongside ribs. You can also try mashed potatoes or even smoked baked potatoes. Don't forget to include some vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts or a colourful salad.

When planning your menu, consider the balance of flavours and textures. You want to create a harmonious dining experience, so choose sides that will complement the ribs without overwhelming them. Enjoy experimenting with different side dishes and creating the perfect combination for your taste preferences!

Frequently asked questions