Ribs are all about deep flavor, tender meat, and the kind of sticky goodness you need napkins for. Whether you’re working with beef or pork, bone-in or boneless, these recipes show off just how versatile ribs can be. From slow cooker and Instant Pot methods to grilled and air-fried takes, you’ll find a range of ways to get that fall-off-the-bone texture. No matter your cooking style, this list brings big flavor with every bite.

Braised Short Ribs

Braised Short Ribs. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

These ribs are seared then slowly cooked in a rich broth until fork-tender. The sauce thickens as it simmers, soaking into every bite. Deep flavor comes from garlic, onions, and red wine. It’s hearty and comforting.
Get the Recipe: Braised Short Ribs

Oven Baked Ribs in Foil

Oven Baked Ribs in Foil. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Wrapped in foil, these ribs cook low and slow until the meat pulls away from the bone. A dry rub and sauce combo builds flavor as they bake. They finish under the broiler for caramelized edges. No grill needed.
Get the Recipe: Oven Baked Ribs in Foil

Instant Pot Short Ribs

Instant Pot Short Ribs. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Pressure cooking locks in moisture and softens the ribs fast. The result is rich, tender meat in a fraction of the usual time. You still get bold flavor with less effort. A quick sear at the end adds texture.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Short Ribs

Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

A white plate with air-fried country style ribs, garnished with barbecue sauce and parsley.
Air Fryer Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

These boneless ribs get a crisp outside while staying juicy inside. The air fryer cuts down on cooking time without losing flavor. A simple dry rub brings out the meatiness. Great for easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs

Homemade Chinese spare ribs with broccoli and rice on a white plate.
Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sweet, sticky, and savory, these ribs are marinated and roasted until caramelized. The glaze thickens into a glossy coat. Each bite is packed with flavor. They taste just like takeout but made at home.
Get the Recipe: Chinese Boneless Spare Ribs

Instant Pot Ribs- Fall Off the Bones Beef Ribs (Low Carb, Gluten-Free)

Instant Pot Ribs- Fall Off the Bones Beef Ribs Low Carb, Gluten-Free on foil with a basting brush and bbq sauce.
Instant Pot Ribs- Fall Off the Bones Beef Ribs (Low Carb, Gluten-Free). Photo credit: Lara Clevenger.

These beef ribs turn tender and juicy in the pressure cooker. A quick broil adds a charred crust. The meat slides right off the bone. A great option for quick low-carb meals.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Ribs- Fall Off the Bones Beef Ribs (Low Carb, Gluten-Free)

Crcok Pot Country Style Ribs

Crcok Pot Country Style Ribs. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Slow cooking makes these ribs ultra soft and saucy. A mix of BBQ sauce and spices adds layers of flavor. They’re easy to throw together in the morning. Serve with mashed potatoes or slaw.
Get the Recipe: Crcok Pot Country Style Ribs

12345 Chinese Spare Ribs (For Easy Home Cooking)

Cooked spare ribs with a dark glaze, sprinkled with sesame seeds, served on a white plate.
12345 Chinese Spare Ribs (For Easy Home Cooking). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

This recipe uses a simple sauce of sugar, vinegar, soy sauce, wine, and water. The ribs simmer until sticky and tender. It’s easy to remember and easy to make. The sauce reduces into a thick glaze.
Get the Recipe: 12345 Chinese Spare Ribs (For Easy Home Cooking)

Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Low angle, closeup shot of spare ribs with hoisin glaze.
Instant Pot Spare Ribs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

A short cook time gives you fall-apart texture in under an hour. The ribs get sauced and broiled for that finished look. The seasoning stays bold and smoky. It’s efficient and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Spare Ribs

Air Fryer BBQ Ribs – Best Dry Rib Rub

Air Fryer BBQ Ribs – Best Dry Rib Rub. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

This recipe uses a flavorful dry rub and air fryer to get ribs cooked fast with crisp edges. The meat stays juicy inside. No grill required to get great BBQ flavor. Add sauce or enjoy them dry.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer BBQ Ribs – Best Dry Rib Rub

Baby Back Ribs

Close-up of cooked baby back ribs on parchment, garnished with chopped parsley.
Baby Back Ribs. Photo credit: Quick Prep Recipes.

These ribs are seasoned, baked, then finished on the grill or broiler. The meat is tender but still has a bite. They’re easy to slice and serve. Always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Baby Back Ribs

Fall off the Bone Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

Fall off the Bone Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Pineapple juice and soy sauce add a tropical twist to these tender ribs. They cook all day in the slow cooker until soft. The glaze is sweet, tangy, and sticky. Perfect for something a little different.
Get the Recipe: Fall off the Bone Slow Cooker Hawaiian Ribs

Grilled BBQ Short Ribs

Grilled BBQ Short Ribs. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These ribs hit the grill with a bold spice rub and sweet sauce. The outside chars while the inside stays tender. They’re quick to grill compared to low-and-slow ribs. Serve with corn or baked beans.
Get the Recipe: Grilled BBQ Short Ribs

Instant Pot Country Ribs

Country pork ribs on a plate next to an instant pot.
Instant Pot Country Ribs. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These boneless ribs turn soft and juicy under pressure. A sauce of your choice coats them perfectly. A quick broil adds extra texture. They’re ready fast and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Country Ribs

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, I’m Lucy! I’m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. I’ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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