When it comes to comfort food, few dishes evoke a sense of warmth and satisfaction quite like short ribs. These tender, fall-off-the-bone cuts of beef have a way of melting in your mouth, leaving you craving more. Whether slow-cooked in rich red wine or smothered in spicy BBQ sauce, short ribs are the ultimate comfort food indulgence.
But what makes short ribs truly special is their versatility. From classic braises to innovative fusions with international flavors, these hearty cutlets can be transformed into a wide range of delicious dishes that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering short rib recipes that showcase the full range of this beloved comfort food. From traditional stews and braises to tacos and empanadas, there’s something for everyone on this list. So grab a fork and dig in – your taste buds will thank you!
Braised Red Wine Short Ribs
A rich and comforting dish perfect for a special occasion or cozy night in, these braised short ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with deep flavor from the red wine reduction.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to pot; cover with lid. Transfer to preheated oven and braise for 2-3 hours, or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Slow Cooker BBQ Short Ribs
Slow Cooker BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Tender and fall-off-the-bone short ribs smothered in a rich and tangy BBQ sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the spice mixture all over the short ribs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the ribs in the slow cooker and pour in the BBQ sauce and beef broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Remove the ribs from the slow cooker and brush with additional BBQ sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Korean Galbi Short Ribs
Experience the rich flavors of Korea with this classic galbi short ribs recipe, marinated to perfection and grilled to a tender finish. This dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, Gochujang, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the short ribs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove ribs from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill ribs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until caramelized and cooked through.
5. Brush with sesame oil during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve immediately with a drizzle of rice vinegar and sprinkle of black pepper.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Short Rib Ragu with Pappardelle
This rich and comforting pasta dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. Slow-cooked short ribs fall off the bone, infusing the ragu with deep flavors that pair perfectly with the wide, flat noodles.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 ounces pappardelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs, then remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, crushed tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Cook pappardelle pasta according to package instructions.
8. Serve ragu over pasta, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours (braising) + 15-20 minutes (cooking pasta)
Pressure Cooker Short Rib Tacos
Get ready to revolutionize your taco Tuesday with this mouth-watering recipe that combines tender short ribs, rich flavors, and the convenience of pressure cooking. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing party.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese, cilantro, and your favorite taco toppings (optional)
Instructions:
1. Press the “Saute” button on the pressure cooker and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add short ribs, tomato paste, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining pressure.
6. Shred short ribs with two forks. Serve in tortillas with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes, including natural pressure release.
Short Rib Pho with Rice Noodles
A hearty and flavorful Vietnamese-inspired soup that combines tender short ribs with soft rice noodles and a rich, aromatic broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 onions, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches ginger, sliced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces rice noodles
– Fresh herbs (such as basil, mint, or cilantro), for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown short ribs, then remove from pot.
3. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, fish sauce, cinnamon, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to boil, then cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or overnight.
5. Cook rice noodles according to package instructions.
6. Strain broth and discard solids. Serve short ribs with noodles, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (plus braising time)
Rosemary Garlic Braised Short Ribs
This comforting dish is a perfect example of slow-cooked perfection. Tender short ribs are smothered in a fragrant rosemary and garlic sauce, resulting in fall-off-the-bone meat that’s simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic and rosemary. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and mustard. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Short Rib Bourguignon
Short Rib Bourguignon is a classic French dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. This slow-cooked stew is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in with friends.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Burgundy or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs in batches, then set aside.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add wine, broth, carrots, and celery. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
6. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
7. Serve hot with crusty bread and fresh parsley.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Asian-Inspired Soy-Glazed Short Ribs
Succulent short ribs get a flavor boost from a sweet and savory soy glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of beef with the bold flavors of Asia.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
3. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Place ribs in a large baking dish and brush the soy glaze all over them.
4. Roast for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
5. In a small pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
6. Brush the glaze mixture over the short ribs during the last 15 minutes of roasting.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Short Rib Chili with Black Beans
This rich and flavorful chili combines the tender goodness of short ribs with the nutty taste of black beans, perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked black beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Brown short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, beef broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional).
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Short Rib Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This comforting pot pie is a perfect blend of tender short ribs and flaky crust, sure to warm your heart and belly. Rich flavors from the slow-cooked short ribs are balanced by a buttery, crispy crust.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mixed frozen vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, flour, broth, wine, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
4. Stir in frozen vegetables and season with salt and pepper.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit the top of a 9-inch pie dish.
6. Fill the pie crust with the short rib mixture and cover with another piece of crust or a pie shield.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 35-40 minutes
Smoked Coffee-Rubbed Short Ribs
Rich and bold, these smoked coffee-rubbed short ribs are a perfect blend of tender meat and deep flavors. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
– 2 tablespoons ground coffee
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, ground coffee, and salt.
3. Rub the coffee mixture all over the short ribs, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Place the ribs on the smoker, bone side down. Close the lid and smoke for 8 hours or until tender.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the ribs with olive oil and sprinkle with minced garlic.
Cooking Time: 8 hours
Short Rib Sliders with Pickled Onions
Elevate your burger game with these tender short rib sliders topped with tangy pickled onions and melted cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Cheddar cheese, sliced
– Pickled onions (see below for recipe)
– Lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the short ribs in hot oil until browned on all sides.
3. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook for 2 hours or until tender. Shred meat with two forks.
5. Assemble sliders by spreading shredded short rib onto buns, topping with cheddar cheese, pickled onions, lettuce, tomato, and any other desired toppings.
Pickled Onions Recipe:
– Slice 1 large onion thinly
– Mix with 1/4 cup vinegar, 2 tablespoons sugar, and salt to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving
Short Rib and Mushroom Risotto
This hearty Italian-inspired dish combines tender short ribs with sautéed mushrooms and creamy Arborio rice, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper; brown in olive oil.
3. Sauté onion and mushrooms until softened; add broth, wine (if using), and browned short ribs.
4. Cook Arborio rice according to package instructions; stir in butter and chopped parsley (if using).
5. Combine cooked short rib mixture with risotto; season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Short Rib Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the tender flavor of short ribs with the sweetness of bell peppers, resulting in a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the short ribs over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add olive oil to the same skillet and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with a portion of the cooked short ribs, followed by a spoonful of the rice mixture, and finishing with shredded cheese.
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Short Rib Shepherd’s Pie
This classic comfort dish gets a rich and tender twist with the addition of short ribs, slow-cooked in red wine and beef broth. The result is a fall-apart tender filling topped with a crispy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 2 potatoes, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the short ribs in olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, carrots, and celery. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2 hours.
4. Remove short ribs from pot and set aside. Strain braising liquid and discard solids.
5. Mash potatoes with butter and salt. Top the short ribs with mashed potatoes and place under broiler until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (slow cooker) + 15 minutes (broiling)
Short Rib Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
This Japanese-inspired recipe combines the fall-off-the-bone tenderness of slow-cooked short ribs with the creamy texture of soft-boiled eggs, all wrapped up in a rich and savory ramen broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry sherry)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– 4 soft-boiled eggs
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Season short ribs with soy sauce, sake, and brown sugar.
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, and browned short ribs to pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to oven. Simmer for 2 hours, or until meat is tender.
5. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Slice soft-boiled eggs.
6. Assemble bowls by placing noodles at the bottom, followed by sliced short ribs, and finishing with a soft-boiled egg and green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Short Rib Empanadas with Chimichurri
These tender short rib empanadas are filled with slow-cooked beef short ribs, onions, and spices, wrapped in flaky pastry and served with a zesty chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
For the empanadas:
– 1 package of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the chimichurri:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook short ribs in a slow cooker with onions, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper for 8 hours.
3. Roll out puff pastry and cut into squares.
4. Spoon cooked short rib mixture onto one half of each square, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
5. Fold other half over filling to form a triangle or rectangle; press edges to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Meanwhile, combine chimichurri ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour
Summary
Get ready to indulge in some serious comfort food with these 18 savory short rib recipes! From classic braises to global inspirations, this collection has something for everyone. Try slow-cooking your short ribs in red wine and beef broth, or give Korean-style galbi a go. For a twist on traditional dishes, try using short ribs in tacos, pot pie, or risotto. And don’t forget the bold flavors of rosemary garlic, soy-glazed, or smoked coffee-rubbed options. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or adventurous and new, these recipes are sure to hit the spot.
