How Long to Cook Beef Ribs in Air Fryer in 3 Easy Steps
Start by removing the silver membrane from your beef ribs and pat them dry. Season evenly with your favorite spices to enhance the flavor before cooking. This preparation is key to achieving delicious results when cooking beef ribs in an air fryer.
Next, cook the ribs in your air fryer at 320°F for about 25 to 35 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even heat distribution. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 190°F to 195°F for tender, juicy ribs.
Finally, brush on BBQ sauce and return the ribs to 400°F for 3 to 5 minutes. This step caramelizes the sauce perfectly, adding a rich glaze to your ribs.
Keep going for tips on perfecting each step.
Remove the Membrane and Season Your Air Fryer Beef Ribs
Before you start seasoning, make sure to remove the silver membrane from the back of the beef ribs using a boning knife or a paper towel; this step helps the seasoning stick better and improves the texture.
Next, pat dry the beef ribs thoroughly with paper towels to eliminate excess moisture. This ensures your dry rub adheres properly. Apply your seasoning mixture generously, covering all sides evenly with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
For deeper flavor penetration, wrap the ribs and place them in the refrigerator overnight. This resting time lets the dry rub soak in, so your air fryer beef ribs come out tender and flavorful.
When ready to cook, check that the ribs are evenly seasoned and dry for the best results.
Cook Air Fryer Beef Ribs at the Right Temperature and Time
Once your beef ribs are properly seasoned and rested, it’s time to cook them at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. Preheat your air fryer to 320°F, place ribs in the air fryer basket, and cook for 25 to 35 minutes, flipping halfway for even doneness.
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; aim for 190°F to 195°F for tender ribs. Adjust cooking time based on rib size—smaller portions need less time, larger ones more.
| Rib Size | Temperature | Cooking Time | Internal Temp for Doneness |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small portions | 320°F | ~20 minutes | 190°F – 195°F |
| Medium racks | 320°F | 25 – 35 minutes | 190°F – 195°F |
| Large racks | 320°F | Up to 40 minutes | 190°F – 195°F |
| Flip halfway | — | — | — |
These easy steps ensure perfectly cooked air fryer beef ribs every time.
Brush With Sauce and Caramelize for Perfect Air Fryer Beef Ribs
While the ribs finish cooking, brush them generously with BBQ sauce to build a sticky, flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully in the air fryer. Use a basting brush to evenly coat your air fryer beef ribs, ensuring consistent flavor absorption and a glossy finish.
Apply the sauce during the final stage of cooking to prevent burning and to let the barbecue flavor fully develop. Return the ribs to the air fryer at 400°F for 3-5 minutes to achieve a crispy exterior as the sauce caramelizes.
Keep a close eye on the cooking time during this stage to avoid overcooking or burning the BBQ sauce. This careful basting and caramelizing step guarantees perfectly sauced, tender ribs every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long to Cook Beef Ribs in the Air Fryer?
You’ll cook beef ribs in the air fryer for about 25-35 minutes at 320°F. Flip halfway through, and use a meat thermometer to make sure they reach 190°F for tender, juicy ribs every time.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Raw Ribs in the Air Fryer?
It takes about 35 to 45 minutes to cook raw ribs in your air fryer at 375°F. Flip them halfway through, and check the internal temperature reaches 190°F for tender, juicy results.
Conclusion
You start with tough, unyielding beef ribs, but by removing the membrane and seasoning them well, you prepare for transformation. Then, the air fryer’s steady heat tenderizes the meat, turning rigidity into juicy softness.
Finally, brushing on sauce and caramelizing creates a glossy, sticky finish that contrasts perfectly with the tender ribs beneath.
In just minutes, you turn raw, rough cuts into mouthwatering, tender delights—quick, easy, and absolutely irresistible. Knowing how long to cook beef ribs in air fryer is key to achieving this perfect texture and flavor every time.
