air fryer country style ribs

Air Fryer Country Style Ribs: Savory and Juicy Every Time

Quick and Tasty Air Fryer Country Style Ribs Recipe

What Is the Recipe for Air Fryer Country Style Ribs?

🍖AIR FRYER COUNTRY STYLE RIBS: Season pork ribs with cayenne, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat with BBQ sauce and air fry until crispy for a delicious, tender meal.

Air-fried country-style ribs are thick, meaty cuts of pork cooked in an air fryer until tender on the inside and crisp on the outside.

Unlike traditional ribs, these come from the shoulder area of the pig, making them rich in flavor and perfect for quick, easy meals at home.

There are many simple ways to prepare them. Some recipes use a dry rub with smoked paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder, while others finish the ribs with a coating of barbecue sauce for a sticky, savory glaze.

You can even keep them plain with salt and pepper and serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauce. No matter how you season them, the air fryer ribs cook them fast while keeping the meat juicy.

In this post, we’ll explain what air fryer country ribs are, whether they’re keto-friendly, and what ingredients and tools you’ll need.

I’ll guide you through an easy step-by-step recipe, share expert tips, and suggest serving ideas. You’ll also find storage tips, nutrition details, and answers to common questions about cooking ribs in an air fryer recipes.

A black plate with crispy, golden-brown country style ribs, garnished with rosemary, next to a sauce brush and a bowl of barbecue sauce on a wooden table
A black plate with crispy, golden-brown country style ribs, garnished with rosemary, next to a sauce brush and a bowl of barbecue sauce on a wooden table

Table of Contents:

What Is Air Fryer Country Style Ribs?

Juicy country style ribs covered in barbecue sauce, resting on crumpled white paper with sauce drips around them
Juicy country style ribs covered in barbecue sauce, resting on crumpled white paper with sauce drips around them

Air fryer country-style ribs are thick, boneless ribs cut of pork that come from the shoulder or blade end of the loin.

They’re called “ribs,” but they’re more like a cross between pork chops and pulled pork in both texture and flavor.

What makes them stand out is their rich marbling, which keeps the meat tender and juicy as it cooks.

When made in an air fryer, these ribs turn out crispy on the outside while staying moist inside, all without the need for a grill or oven.

It’s a quicker, cleaner way to enjoy ribs at home. You can season them with a simple spice mix, brush on your favorite barbecue sauce, or stick with a classic salt-and-pepper combo.

However you flavor them, the air fryer handles the heavy lifting, delivering tender, flavorful ribs in less time.

Is Air Fryer Country Style Ribs Keto-Friendly?

A large rack of cooked ribs topped with sesame seeds, served with fresh vegetables and colorful sauce dots on a dark plate
A large rack of cooked ribs topped with sesame seeds, served with fresh vegetables and colorful sauce dots on a dark plate

Yes, air fryer country-style ribs can be keto-friendly! The ribs themselves are naturally low in carbs and high in fat and protein, which makes them a great fit for a ketogenic diet.

The key is in how you season and sauce them. Many store-bought barbecue sauces and marinades are loaded with added sugars, which can quickly raise the carb count.

To keep your ribs keto-approved, use a sugar-free barbecue sauce or stick to a simple dry rub made with spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

You can even add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a keto-friendly hot sauce for extra flavor. When prepared the right way, these ribs are a satisfying, flavorful option for anyone following a low-carb, high-fat lifestyle.

Ingredients to Prepare

Two pieces of dark, juicy barbecue ribs with a shiny glaze served on a plain white plate
Two pieces of dark, juicy barbecue ribs with a shiny glaze served on a plain white plate

Here’s what you’ll need to make flavorful, tender air fryer country-style ribs at home.

  • Country-style boneless pork ribs: Thick, tender cuts of pork with generous marbling, ideal for air frying as they stay juicy, flavorful, and beautifully browned.
  • BBQ sauce: A rich, sweet, and tangy sauce that caramelizes in the air fryer, creating a sticky glaze and bold flavor on every bite of rib.
  • Cayenne pepper: Adds a spicy kick to balance the sweetness of the sauce, giving the ribs a subtle heat that lingers without overpowering the dish.
  • Smoked paprika: Delivers a warm, smoky flavor that mimics slow-smoked ribs, enhancing the meat’s depth and adding beautiful color during the air frying process.
  • Garlic powder: Infuses a mellow, savory garlic taste that blends smoothly with the other spices, bringing an extra layer of aromatic flavor to the ribs.
  • Onion powder: Contributes a hint of sweet, earthy flavor that pairs well with smoky and spicy notes, making the seasoning blend feel more rounded and complete.
  • Kosher salt: Coarse and clean-tasting, this salt boosts the pork’s natural flavors and helps the seasoning stick to the surface for an even, flavorful crust.
  • Black pepper: Offers a sharp, peppery edge that cuts through the richness of the pork and complements the smoky, sweet, and spicy flavors in the rub.

Ingredient Measurement

A plate of baked beef ribs with a shiny brown glaze, garnished with parsley, and surrounded by herbs, salt and pepper shakers, and fresh tomatoes
A plate of baked beef ribs with a shiny brown glaze, garnished with parsley, and surrounded by herbs, salt and pepper shakers, and fresh tomatoes

Below are the exact measurements you’ll need to season and cook your country-style ribs perfectly.

  • 2 pounds of country-style boneless pork ribs
  • 1 cup of BBQ sauce
  • ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper
  • 1 ½ teaspoons of smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon of kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon of garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon of black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon of onion powder

Adjust seasoning based on your taste — like it smoky? Toss in extra paprika. Prefer more heat? Add a pinch of cayenne.

Equipment You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather these simple kitchen tools to make the process easy.

  • Basting brush
  • Air fryer
  • Small bowl
  • Tongs

How to Make Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

Cooked ribs with a crispy, dark crust placed on parchment paper, with a couple of bones picked clean on the side
Cooked ribs with a crispy, dark crust placed on parchment paper, with a couple of bones picked clean on the side

Making air fryer country-style ribs is simple and hassle-free. With just a few ingredients and the right tools, you can have a delicious meal in no time.

It’s a perfect way to enjoy tender, flavorful ribs without spending hours in the kitchen. Now, let’s walk through the steps to make them!

Step 1: Preheat and Mix the Seasoning

  • Set your air fryer to preheat at 370°F. While it’s warming up, grab a small bowl and mix the paprika, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
  • Once combined, set the seasoning blend aside for later.

Step 2: Prepare and Season the Ribs

  • Trim and slice the country-style ribs as needed. Lightly coat them with cooking oil, either by spraying or rubbing it on.
  • Generously sprinkle the seasoning mix over the ribs, making sure to massage it in so each piece is well coated on all sides.

Step 3: Air Fry and Finish with BBQ Sauce

  • Arrange the seasoned ribs in the air fryer basket in a single, even layer.
  • Cook them for 20 minutes, flipping each rib halfway through for even browning.
  • After 20 minutes, remove the ribs and brush a light layer of BBQ sauce over them.
  • Return them to the air fryer for an additional 5–8 minutes, until they’re cooked through and caramelized.
  • Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Air Fryer Country Style Ribs Recipe Nutrition

A plate of sliced pork ribs garnished with rosemary, served on a wooden board with barbecue sauce, cherry tomatoes, and seasoning around it
A plate of sliced pork ribs garnished with rosemary, served on a wooden board with barbecue sauce, cherry tomatoes, and seasoning around it

The Boneless Country Style Ribs recipe provides a nutritious balance of protein and fat, making it a filling and satisfying option.

With tender pork as the base, the dish is low in carbs, making it a great choice for those following keto or low-carb diets.

The seasoning adds flavor without significantly increasing calories, offering a healthy, flavorful meal for any occasion.

Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown per serving of these air fryer country-style ribs:

  • Calories: 406 kcal
  • Total fats: 18 grams
  • Net carbs: 29 grams
  • Protein: 29 grams

Expert Tips for Perfecting Your Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

Grilled pork ribs served on a wooden board with lettuce, barbecue sauce, chips, and a glass of beer
Grilled pork ribs served on a wooden board with lettuce, barbecue sauce, chips, and a glass of beer

For the juiciest, most flavorful air fryer country-style ribs, follow these expert tips. They’ll help you achieve the perfect texture and taste every time.

  • Pat dry the ribs: Before seasoning, pat the ribs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps them crisp up better in the air fryer.
  • Use a dry rub: For maximum flavor, coat the ribs with a dry rub made of spices like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper before cooking.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Preheating your air fryer ensures the ribs cook evenly and develop a nice crust.
  • Avoid overcrowding: Arrange the ribs in a single layer for optimal airflow. If necessary, cook them in batches to avoid steaming.
  • Flip halfway through: Flip the ribs halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly and get crispy on both sides.
  • Baste with BBQ sauce: For a sticky, flavorful glaze, brush on additional bbq sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
  • Check internal temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check that the ribs reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption.
  • Let them rest: Allow the ribs to rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain their juices and enhance flavor.

These tips will help you achieve tender, juicy, and perfectly crisp air fryer country-style ribs!

Serving and Pairing Ideas

Four pieces of grilled pork ribs with a dark, caramelized crust served on a simple plate with pink salt on the side
Four pieces of grilled pork ribs with a dark, caramelized crust served on a simple plate with pink salt on the side

A great plate of air fryer country-style ribs deserves the perfect sides. These serving and pairing ideas add balance, texture, and refreshing flavors to round out your meal.

Serving Ideas

  • Slice and serve with extra BBQ sauce: Offer a side of warm, favorite bbq sauce for dipping, letting everyone adjust the flavor to their preference.
  • Chop and pile onto a toasted low-carb bun: Turn your ribs into a quick, satisfying sandwich by shredding the meat and stacking it inside a toasted, keto-friendly bun.
  • Top with pickled red onions or coleslaw: Add a crisp, tangy topping like pickled onions or slaw to brighten up the rich, smoky flavor of the ribs.
  • Serve over cauliflower rice: Use fluffy, low-carb cauliflower rice as a simple base to soak up the juices and balance the bold flavors of the ribs.
  • Pair with roasted or air-fried vegetables: Crispy Brussels sprouts, green beans, or seasoned zucchini spears make perfect, wholesome sides to complete the plate.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs: Finish the ribs with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and a light, fresh herbal note.

Pairing Ideas

  • Classic coleslaw: Its creamy, tangy crunch is the perfect contrast to the smoky, tender ribs, adding coolness and texture to the meal.
  • Grilled or air-fried corn on the cob: For non-keto eaters, sweet, buttery corn makes a nostalgic BBQ pairing with the crispy, caramelized pork.
  • Creamy mashed cauliflower: A low-carb, velvety side dish that pairs well with the rich pork and soaks up the flavorful BBQ sauce.
  • Pickles or pickled jalapeños: Their tart, sharp flavor cuts through the richness of the ribs, offering a crunchy, refreshing contrast to each bite.
  • Keto cornbread muffins: A grain-free, buttery baked side that captures the spirit of traditional BBQ meals without the carbs.
  • Iced tea or sparkling water with lemon: Light, refreshing drinks help balance the savory, smoky flavors and cleanse your palate between bites.
  • Smoky baked beans: For those not watching carbs, the sweet, smoky beans complement the ribs beautifully with a soft, hearty texture.
  • Keto ranch cucumber salad: Cool, crisp cucumbers tossed in creamy, tangy ranch dressing offer a refreshing, low-carb side to balance the rich pork.

How to Store Air Fryer Country Style Ribs

Barbecue ribs served in a takeout tray with a side of coleslaw and a small cup of barbecue sauce.
Barbecue ribs served in a takeout tray with a side of coleslaw and a small cup of barbecue sauce.

Storing leftover air fryer country-style ribs is simple and ensures you can enjoy them later.

Once the ribs have cooled to room temperature, transfer them to an airtight container. This helps preserve their flavor and prevents them from drying out. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.

For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the ribs tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.

When properly stored, they can last for up to 2 to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer or oven.

For best results, warm them up at a low temperature to prevent drying out, and consider adding a little extra sauce to keep them moist.

More Keto Recipes You Can Make at Home

If you love this recipe, you’ll want to try these keto-friendly air fryer ideas:

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do You Cook Ribs in the Air Fryer For?

Country-style ribs typically cook in the air fryer for about 20 to 25 minutes at 380°F (193°C). Flip them halfway through to ensure even browning and tenderness. Thicker cuts might need a few extra minutes, so always check for doneness before serving.

What Temperature Do You Cook Country Style Ribs?

For the best results, cook country-style ribs in the air fryer at 380°F (193°C). This temperature helps create a crispy outer layer while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Always check the internal temperature, aiming for at least 145°F (63°C) for safe eating.

Are Ribs Better in Air Fryer or Oven?

Both methods have their perks, but air fryers cook ribs faster and deliver crispier edges without drying them out. Ovens are great for slow-cooking larger batches. If you want tender, flavorful ribs in less time with minimal cleanup, the air fryer is tough to beat.

Final Thoughts

Air fryer country style ribs are a simple, flavorful meal you can make any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking bbq ribs or baby back ribs, this recipe makes it easy to achieve tender, juicy results.

We covered what these ribs are, how to keep them keto-friendly, the ingredients and tools you’ll need, and a step-by-step guide to cooking them perfectly in your air fryer.

I also shared expert tips, serving ideas, storage advice, and answers to common questions, like the ideal cooking time and how to use an instant-read meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Using a rib rub with spices like ground black pepper and brown sugar adds great flavor, while olive oil helps create a crispy exterior.

Keep in mind the nutrition calories and saturated fat content for your dietary needs, especially if you’re mindful of monounsaturated fat. If you have remaining ribs, they store easily for later meals.

Whether you’re using a smaller air fryer or a larger model, this easy recipe delivers perfect results every time.

If you’ve been looking for a quick, satisfying way to enjoy tender, juicy ribs without the hassle of the oven or grill, this recipe is worth a try. It’s versatile and perfect for busy days.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to review the recipe and leave your required recipe ratings.

Want more easy, keto-friendly recipes you can make at home? Visit our website for plenty of fresh ideas to keep your meals simple, flavorful, and low in carbs!