Air Fryer Short Ribs

Tender, juicy, perfectly caramelized short ribs cooked in the air fryer with minimal oil. Crispy on the outside, fall-apart soft inside; fast, flavorful, and irresistibly rich.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Resting Time 5

Total Time 40

Servings: 4

Course: Air Fryer, Comfort Food

Cuisine: American

Calories: 430

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

Short Ribs:
2 lbs beef short ribs bone-in preferred
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp chili powder optional
Optional Glaze:
2 tbsp BBQ sauce or honey
1 tsp soy sauce
1 tsp lemon juice or vinegar

Equipment

1 Air Fryer Any brand (basket or oven-style)
1 Mixing bowl For seasoning
1 Tongs For flipping
1 Paper towels For drying ribs
1 Meat thermometer Optional, for precise doneness

Method

Pat the short ribs completely dry with paper towels to help them crisp.
Add ribs to a bowl and coat with olive oil.
Sprinkle salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and chili powder. Rub to coat evenly.
Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (193°C) for 3 minutes.
Arrange ribs in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
Cook for 12 minutes, flip the ribs, then cook another 10-12 minutes until browned and tender.
(Optional) Brush with glaze and air-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until glossy.
Remove ribs and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serve warm with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, salad, or roasted vegetables.

Notes

Bone-in ribs deliver more flavor and stay juicier.
For extra tenderness, marinate ribs for 1–2 hours before air frying.
For crispier edges, increase temperature to 400°F (204°C) during the last 3 minutes.
Save drippings to drizzle over mashed potatoes or rice.
Glaze only at the end to prevent burning.