Air Frying Rib Tips: How Long Does It Take?

Cooking rib tips in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get tender, juicy, and flavorful meat. While cooking ribs in an oven or grill can take over an hour, air fryers can deliver the same mouthwatering results in just 20 to 45 minutes. The key to achieving perfectly cooked rib tips is to season them generously, cook them in a single layer for even cooking, and finish them off with a delicious barbecue sauce.

Cooking temperature and time

The cooking temperature and time for rib tips in an air fryer depend on the type of ribs you are cooking.

For Baby Back Ribs, cook at 325°F for 35 minutes. Then, increase the temperature to 400°F and cook for another 10 minutes to finish the cooking process and crisp up the outside.

For Pork Rib Tips, season the ribs with salt and pepper and rub the seasoning in. Then, place the ribs in the air fryer basket and cook at 390°F for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, brush barbecue sauce on the rib tips and cook at 400°F for 3 minutes. Flip the rib tips over, brush with more barbecue sauce, and cook for another 3 minutes at 400°F. The internal temperature of the ribs should be at least 200°F when they are done.

If you are cooking Spare Ribs or St. Louis Style Ribs, it is recommended to cook them in the oven instead of the air fryer, as they can dry out. Spare Ribs and St. Louis Style Ribs are darker pork meat that benefits from slow cooking. You can cook them in the oven at a low temperature for a long time, until their internal temperature reaches 200°F.

Additionally, if you are reheating leftover ribs in the air fryer, cook them at 400°F for 10 minutes to crisp them up and heat them through.

Reheating rib tips

To reheat your rib tips, first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) or 380°F, depending on the recipe you follow. If your ribs are big chunks, we recommend cutting them into smaller pieces as overloading the air fryer may stop hot air from circulating, and some parts of the ribs may not be reheated.

Next, place the ribs in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is some space around each piece for proper air circulation. If your air fryer is small, you may need to reheat the ribs in batches. If you are reheating sauced ribs, we recommend using a silicone liner, parchment round, or air fryer pan for easy cleanup.

Cook your rib tips for 3 to 10 minutes, depending on the recipe and the thickness of your ribs. Keep a close eye on them and check for doneness as air fryers can vary in cooking times. Your rib tips should be hot and tender. If they need more time, continue cooking in 1-2 minute intervals until they are heated to your desired temperature.

Finally, remove the ribs from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can add more sauce or garnishes if desired.

Choosing the right ribs

Type of Ribs:

The most suitable type of ribs for air frying is Baby Back Ribs. These ribs are specific cuts from the upper rib racks of pork and include riblets, loin ribs, and back ribs. Baby Back Ribs have a good amount of loin meat, which is ideal for the quick cooking time and lower internal temperature of the air fryer. They cook evenly and retain moisture, resulting in tender and juicy ribs.

On the other hand, St. Louis Style Ribs and Spare Ribs are not as well-suited for air frying. These ribs have darker pork meat with more collagen, which benefits from slower cooking methods to break down the collagen and make the meat extra tender. Air frying these ribs may lead to dryness.

Quality and Marbling:

Look for meaty and well-marbled ribs. Marbling refers to the fat distributed throughout the meat, and it is essential for flavour and tenderness. Well-marbled ribs will have a good balance of fat and lean meat, ensuring juicy and tasty results.

Size and Fit:

Consider the size of your air fryer basket when choosing ribs. If you have a smaller air fryer, you might need to cut the ribs into smaller portions or even overlap them slightly to fit. However, ensure there is minimal overlap to allow for even cooking. Alternatively, if you have a larger air fryer, you may not need to cut the ribs and can cook them in a single layer.

Freshness and Storage:

Opt for fresh ribs that have been properly stored and handled. Check the packaging for any signs of damage or tampering. Look for ribs with a bright, pinkish-red colour and avoid those with excessive moisture or discolouration. Fresh ribs will have a firmer texture compared to frozen or previously frozen ribs.

Personal Preference:

Finally, consider your personal preferences. If you prefer a specific type of rib or have dietary restrictions, choose accordingly. You can also select ribs based on your desired cooking time, as some cuts may require longer cooking times than others.

By considering these factors, you can choose the right ribs for your air fryer, ensuring delicious and tender results every time.

Seasoning and prep

To prepare rib tips in an air fryer, start by patting the ribs dry with a paper towel. This will help the seasoning stick to the meat and give the ribs a crispy texture. You can then season the ribs with your choice of spices. A typical combination of spices includes salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and mustard powder. Alternatively, you can use a barbecue rub, which may include salt, sugar, paprika, chilli powder, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper. Make sure to rub the seasoning into both sides of the ribs.

Once the ribs are seasoned, wrap them in tin foil and place them in the air fryer basket. It is important to ensure that the ribs are in a single layer to promote even cooking. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F to 390°F (about 195°C). The cooking time will vary depending on the desired level of doneness. For well-done ribs, aim for an internal temperature of 170°F, while 145°F is sufficient if you prefer your pork less cooked.

After air frying, remove the ribs from the basket and discard the tin foil. Brush barbecue sauce all over the meat, and place the ribs back in the air fryer for a few minutes to achieve a nice char. You can finish the ribs under the broiler if you prefer. Let the ribs rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving suggestions

Air Fryer Pork Rib Tips are a flavorful, finger-licking delight! They are perfect for a hearty meal or as a tasty appetizer for any gathering. You can serve them as a main course with classic sides like Instant Pot Red Potatoes, Instant Pot Frozen Corn on the Cob, and Grilled Balsamic Zucchini Slices. You can also cut these rib tips into pieces and skewer them with toothpicks for a tasty appetizer. Serve them alongside other easy snacks like Aldi Cheese Fries in the Air Fryer, Air Fryer Roasted Poblano Peppers, or Farm Rich Mozzarella Bites.

If you have leftovers, you can reheat them in the air fryer for several minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Leftover ribs can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 4 days. You can also store them in a shallow container and put them in the freezer for up to two months once they have cooled.

If you're looking for a quick and flavorful BBQ dinner, Air Fryer Pork Rib Tips are a great option. They are easy to make and full of flavor. You can season them with your favorite rub or marinade, something savory and delicious. Don't forget to pat them dry before seasoning, as this will help the seasoning adhere and make the ribs crispy.

For a delicious and healthy option, air-fried ribs are the way to go. Fried or baked ribs require tons of oil or butter, but air-fried ribs don't need much oil, making cleanup a breeze. So, whether you're a barbecue aficionado or just craving a tasty, fuss-free meal, Air Fryer Pork Rib Tips are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Frequently asked questions