Air Fryer 3-2-1 Ribs

This Air Fryer 3-2-1 Ribs recipe takes a classic smoking method and adapts it for the air fryer. The ribs are first dry-rubbed with a flavorful spice mix, then cooked in three phases: 3 hours unwrapped, 2 hours wrapped in foil, and 1 final hour sauced. The result? Ribs that are incredibly tender, juicy, and packed with barbecue goodness. Perfect for when you want that slow-cooked taste without the fuss of a smoker.

Unbalanced

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

Prep Work: Clean and Trim: Remove the membrane from the backside of the ribs using a knife to get it started and a piece of paper towel to grab and pull. You may also need to cut the ribs into sections to fit your air fryer.

Step 2

Prep Work: Binder & Dry Rub (If you're making): Apply mustard to the front and back of each section of ribs. With your hand, rub the mustard all over the ribs until evenly coated. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Apply this rub to both sides of the ribs, pressing it in well.

Step 3

Three Hours Unwrapped: Preheat your air fryer to 225°F (107°C). Place the rib sections in the air fryer, bone-side down, and cook for 3 hours. Some air fryers only allow for 60min cooking intervals. Just set a timer and add time.

Step 4

Two Hours Wrapped: After 3 hours, take out the ribs. On a piece of aluminum foil, place (2)-1 tbsp pieces and 1 tbsp of brown sugar. Place the rib section down and add the same amount of butter/brown sugar to the top. Pour 1/3 cup into the bottom of each foil pieces. Wrap the ribs tightly in the foil. *You should do this 3 times total if you have 3 rib sections. Raise the air fryer temperature to 250°F (120°C). Place the foil-wrapped ribs back in the air fryer and cook for another 2 hours.

Step 5

One Hour Sauced: Unwrap the ribs and discard the foil. Increase the air fryer temperature to 275°F (135°C). Apply a generous layer of barbecue sauce to both sides of the ribs using a basting brush. Place the sauced ribs back in the air fryer and cook for an additional 1 hour. Make sure the internal temperature reaches at least 195°F (90°C) using a meat thermometer.

Step 6

Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra barbecue sauce.