Tender Crock Pot Express Ribs

Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with an unbelievably easy and incredibly delicious meal? If you’ve recently acquired a new pressure cooker like the Crock Pot Express, you’re in for a treat! This guide will walk you through creating the most tender, fall-off-the-bone bbq Crock Pot Express ribs you’ve ever tasted, all cooked in a fraction of the traditional time. Imagine succulent barbecue pork ribs, infused with flavor, ready to enjoy in less than 30 minutes. Yes, it’s entirely possible, and we’re here to show you how!

Whether you’re new to the world of pressure cooking or simply seeking a hearty, finger-licking good meal that will impress everyone at your table, these ribs are guaranteed to please. They’re not just simple to make; they’re unbelievably delicious! Once you try them, this might become your go-to method for preparing ribs. If you’re eager to explore more simple and delicious Crock Pot Express recipes, we have a treasure trove waiting for you.

Why Cook Ribs in a Pressure Cooker?

The magic of a pressure cooker, like the Crock Pot Express, lies in its ability to drastically reduce cooking times while enhancing tenderness and flavor. Traditional oven-baked or slow-cooked ribs can take hours, but with a pressure cooker, you can achieve that sought-after “fall-off-the-bone” texture in minutes. The sealed environment forces steam into the meat fibers, breaking them down quickly and efficiently. This method not only saves time but also locks in moisture and flavor, resulting in ribs that are consistently juicy and tender from edge to center. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave comfort food without the long wait.

How to Cook Ribs in Crockpot Express: A Simple Guide

Creating these sensational ribs requires minimal effort and just a few key ingredients. With only three main components, you can have tender, succulent ribs ready in approximately 30 minutes. We even offer dedicated instructions for cooking pressure cooker frozen ribs, making dinner prep even more flexible. For those who enjoy a slightly crispy exterior, a quick finish under the broiler will do the trick, adding a delightful caramelized crust to your ribs. Alternatively, serve them straight out of the pot alongside your favorite vegetables for the ultimate comfort food experience. They are truly delicious!

Before you begin, one crucial step for achieving maximum tenderness is to remove the membrane from the back of the ribs. This thin, silverskin layer can prevent your ribs from reaching their full tender potential. Don’t worry, it’s a simple process that takes just a minute or two and makes a significant difference in the final texture.

Crockpot Express Pork Ribs: Our Top Choice

Having been an avid pressure cooker user for years, first with my Instant Pot and now with the Crock Pot Express, I can confidently say these appliances are game-changers. They’ve made it possible for our family to enjoy home-cooked meals more often, transforming dishes that once took an entire day into a perfect meal in about an hour. It’s truly revolutionized how we approach dinner.

Pork vs. Beef Ribs in the Pressure Cooker

While many types of ribs work well in a pressure cooker, pork ribs are consistently my favorite for their inherent tenderness and rich flavor. If you’re a beef enthusiast, you might prefer to try our English short ribs recipe, which also includes tips for cooking vegetables alongside the meat in the same pot. Both pork and beef ribs benefit immensely from the pressure cooking method, ensuring a succulent result.

I recently started using my Crockpot Express and was keen to compare it with my Instant Pot. They are remarkably similar, with only minor differences in button layouts. Both appliances have undeniably made my busy life much easier, delivering consistent, delicious results every time.

Choosing the Best Ribs to Cook in a Pressure Cooker

When it comes to pressure cooking, the right cut of ribs can make all the difference. Our preferred choice for consistent tenderness is country-style pork ribs. These are often meatier and provide a great texture when pressure cooked.

• Baby Back Ribs: These are popular, leaner, and quicker to cook than spare ribs. They tend to have less meat but are often a more economical choice. They come out wonderfully tender in a pressure cooker.
• Spare Ribs: Larger and fattier than baby back ribs, spare ribs are packed with flavor. They might require a slightly longer cooking time but yield incredibly rich and juicy results. St. Louis style ribs are simply spare ribs that have been trimmed to a more uniform, rectangular shape.
• Country-Style Pork Ribs: These aren’t technically ribs from the rib cage but are cut from the blade end of the loin. They are very meaty and are fantastic for pressure cooking, offering a substantial, tender bite.
• Pressure Cooker Beef Ribs: While beef ribs can be cooked in a pressure cooker, they typically require a bit more time and might not achieve the same “fall-off-the-bone” tenderness as pork ribs, though they will still be incredibly flavorful and tender compared to other cooking methods.

Don’t be alarmed if your Crockpot Express beeps and displays an E6 error code shortly after starting. This is a common occurrence that’s usually easy to fix, and we’ll cover troubleshooting it in detail further down.

Crock Pot Express Ribs Recipe

Crock Pot Express BBQ Ribs

By Justine

If you got this new pressure cooker you might be looking for an easy Crock Pot Express ribs recipe and I have one for you here! Tender fall off the bone barbecue ribs cooked in less than 30 minutes is now possible! Husband and kid approved, this is the only way I cook them now.

Prep: 10 mins
Cook: 25 mins
Total: 35 mins
Servings: 5

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Equipment

• 1 pressure cooker (Crock Pot Express or Instant Pot)

Ingredients

• 1 rack ribs (we prefer pork, they come out the tenderest; approx. 1.8 lbs were cooked in this recipe)
• 1 bottle barbecue sauce (20 oz; avoid honey-style sauces as they can cause burning)
• 1 cup water (or apple juice for extra flavor)

Instructions

1. Start by cutting your rack of ribs into smaller, manageable pieces. We recommend cutting them into sections with about 3-4 ribs each, making them easier to fit into the pressure cooker and serve.
2. Pour 1/2 cup of water (or apple juice) into the bottom of your Crock Pot Express pressure cooker pot. This liquid is essential for creating the steam needed for pressure cooking.
3. Next, add about half of your bottle of barbecue sauce to the pot, mixing it with the water.
4. Carefully place your rib pieces inside the pot. Arrange them vertically or in a circular fashion, leaning against the sides if necessary, so they are not lying flat on the bottom. This prevents direct contact with the heating element, which can lead to scorching or trigger an E6 error code (more on this below).
5. Pour the remaining barbecue sauce generously over the top of your ribs, ensuring they are well coated.
6. For an extra boost of flavor and to get every last drop of sauce, add the remaining 1/2 cup of water to your empty barbecue sauce bottle. Replace the cap and shake vigorously to loosen any clinging sauce, then pour this flavorful liquid over your ribs in the pot.
7. Close the pressure cooker lid securely and ensure the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position.
8. Select the “Meat/Stew” setting on your Crock Pot Express (or “Manual” / “Pressure Cook” on other models), set it to High Pressure, and cook for 25 minutes. If you are doubling this recipe or using a larger, meatier rack of ribs (e.g., closer to 3-4 lbs), increase the cooking time to 40 minutes for ultra fall-off-the-bone tenderness.
9. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a Natural Pressure Release for 5 minutes. This means you do nothing and let the pressure decrease slowly on its own for five minutes. After 5 minutes, carefully turn the steam release valve to the “Venting” position to quick release any remaining pressure. Be cautious of the hot steam.
10. You can serve your tender ribs immediately, or for a delightful crispy top, place them on a baking sheet and broil in the oven (or a convection oven) at 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C) for about 4-5 minutes, just until the tops are gently browned and caramelized. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
11. Enjoy your incredibly tender and flavorful pressure cooker BBQ ribs!

Video Tutorial

For a visual guide, check out our video tutorial on making these Crock Pot Express ribs. (Video content typically embedded here via iframe, for example: Watch the Ribs Recipe Video)

Nutrition Information

Serving: 4oz

Calories: 155 kcal

Carbohydrates: 36g

Sodium: 933mg

Potassium: 210mg

Sugar: 30g

Vitamin A: 205 IU

Vitamin C: 0.6mg

Calcium: 30mg

Iron: 0.6mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Entree, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Tried this recipe? Mention @thetypical_mom or tag #thetypicalmom on Instagram!

Ingredient Notes and Customization Tips

1. Rack of Ribs: As mentioned, we typically opt for pork back ribs for their tenderness, but spare ribs or country-style ribs also work wonderfully. Aim for a rack around 1.8 to 2 lbs for the specified cooking time.
2. Barbecue Sauce: This is where much of your flavor comes from! Choose your favorite brand and style, but a crucial tip is to avoid sauces that are very high in sugar, especially those labeled “honey style.” High-sugar sauces can easily burn at the bottom of the pressure cooker, potentially triggering error codes or leading to a scorched taste. Opt for tomato-based or vinegar-based sauces for best results.
3. Liquid for Steam: While water is perfectly fine and effective, consider using apple juice for an added layer of subtle sweetness and moisture. Some enthusiasts also like to add a dash of liquid smoke to the pot for an intensified smoky BBQ flavor, mimicking hours on a smoker.
4. Dry Rub: Before adding the sauce, don’t hesitate to apply your favorite dry rub to the ribs. A good dry rub can add complexity and depth, complementing the barbecue sauce beautifully. Pat the ribs dry, rub them generously, and let them sit for 15-30 minutes before proceeding with the liquid and sauce steps.

Remember that the 25-minute cook time is generally adequate for a single, smaller rack of ribs (around 2 lbs). If you are doubling the recipe or using a much larger, meatier rack, increase the cook time to about 40 minutes to ensure they reach that ultra fall-off-the-bone tenderness. This pressure cooking method is significantly faster than making slow cooker ribs, yet delivers equally, if not more, tender results. Always allow for a natural pressure release for at least 5 minutes before quick releasing any remaining steam.

How to Achieve a Crispy Top on Your Ribs

While pressure-cooked ribs are unbelievably tender and delicious straight from the pot, many people enjoy a slightly crispy, caramelized exterior. This finishing step adds texture and enhances the BBQ flavor:

• Broiler Method: The easiest way to achieve a crispy top is using your oven’s broiler. After pressure cooking, carefully transfer the ribs to a baking sheet. Place the sheet on the middle rack of your oven and broil on high for about 4 minutes. Watch them closely, as broilers can vary in intensity and ribs can burn quickly. You’re looking for a nice char and a slightly sticky glaze.
• Convection Oven/Toaster Oven: If you have a convection oven or a dual toaster oven + air fryer, these are excellent tools for crisping. Set it to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 4-5 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and toasty, just like the beautiful ribs you see in our photos.
• Air Fryer Finish: For truly crispy ribs, you can also transfer individual rib pieces to an air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach your desired crispiness. For more details, explore our air fryer ribs recipe.

The choice to crisp the tops is entirely yours. Even straight out of the pressure cooker, these BBQ ribs are deliciously tender and will fall off the bone. However, if you love that savory, slightly charred exterior, following these simple steps will elevate your pressure cooker ribs to perfection!

Troubleshooting: What is the E6 Error Code on an Electric Cooker?

It can be a little unnerving when your electric pressure cooker displays an error code. If you encounter an “E6” code on your Crock Pot Express screen, don’t panic! This code typically indicates that the appliance is detecting a potential overheating situation, often due to insufficient liquid at the bottom of the pot or food sticking to the heating element.

Here’s what to do if an E6 error occurs:

1. Release Pressure and Open Lid: Immediately hit the “Cancel” button. Carefully turn the steam release valve to the “Venting” position to release any accumulated pressure. Once safe, open the lid.
2. Check for Sticking: Inspect the bottom of the pot. Are the ribs or sauce stuck to the base? Use a wooden or silicone spoon to gently scrape any stuck-on bits.
3. Adjust Ribs: Ensure your ribs are not sitting flat on the very bottom of the pot. Reposition them to lean against the sides or stack them slightly so there’s some space for liquid and steam to circulate underneath. Make sure there’s enough barbecue sauce or liquid between the ribs and the inner pot’s bottom.
4. Add More Liquid: Often, the simplest fix is to add another 1/2 cup of water or apple juice to the pot. This increases the total liquid, helping to prevent scorching and providing more steam.
5. Restart: Close the lid, ensure the steam valve is sealed, and restart the cooking cycle. The E6 error is usually a safety precaution and can often be resolved by these adjustments.

You can read more detailed information about the Crockpot Express E6 error code here. While the E6 code suggests burning, it sometimes appears as a false alarm when conditions are perfectly fine but the sensor is triggered. Proper liquid levels and positioning of ingredients are key to avoiding it.

To make your pressure cooking journey even easier, be sure to print out our free and handy Crock Pot Express Cook Times sheet. It’s a fantastic resource for quick reference!

Frequently Asked Questions About Pressure Cooker Ribs

Should ribs be completely covered in liquid in a pressure cooker?

No, it’s not necessary for ribs to be fully submerged in liquid. You only need enough moisture at the bottom of the pot to create steam, which is essential for tenderizing the meat. We use barbecue sauce mixed with a cup of water (or apple juice) to provide sufficient liquid for steam while also infusing the ribs with incredible flavor. The ribs cook in the steam and sauce, not necessarily fully covered.

What is the fastest way to cook baby back ribs?

Without a doubt, the fastest way to cook incredibly tender baby back ribs is in a pressure cooker! You can use any brand – Crock Pot Express, Instant Pot, or another model. Simply cut the rack of ribs into smaller pieces to fit comfortably inside your pot, add a bottle of your favorite BBQ sauce and some water, seal the lid, and let it work its magic. Depending on the size of your ribs, they will be unbelievably tender, fall-off-the-bone ready in about 25-30 minutes of cook time (plus pressure build-up and release). You’ll be able to pull the meat off the bone with ease!

Can I use frozen ribs in my pressure cooker?

Yes, you absolutely can! Pressure cookers are fantastic for cooking meat directly from frozen. You’ll typically need to add about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time for a frozen rack of ribs compared to thawed ribs. Ensure there’s enough liquid, and follow a natural pressure release for best results. Check out our specific guide for pressure cooker frozen ribs for detailed instructions.

Final Thoughts: Your New Go-To Rib Recipe

Cooking barbecue ribs in your Crock Pot Express is a game-changer. It eliminates the long cooking times of traditional methods without sacrificing any of the deep, smoky flavor or incredible tenderness that makes ribs such a beloved dish. This recipe is not just easy; it’s foolproof, delivering perfect, fall-off-the-bone ribs every single time. So, fire up your pressure cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a fantastic meal that your family will rave about. Happy cooking!