Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe: This recipe delivers rich flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, making boneless beef short ribs a true comfort food. Whether slow-braised, grilled, or smoked, these versatile cuts of beef are perfect for any occasion, from casual family lunches to celebratory gatherings.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to craft the best boneless beef short ribs recipe. From selecting the right cut to expert tips for cooking and serving, you’ll master this dish with ease.
Table of Contents
What Are Boneless Beef Short Ribs?
Boneless beef short ribs come from the chuck or plate section of the cow. They’re essentially strips of meat that are trimmed from the ribs, offering the same rich flavor and marbling as bone-in short ribs but with added convenience. These ribs are perfect for slow-cooking methods, allowing the fat to render down and create an incredibly juicy, tender dish.
Learn more about different beef cuts and their uses.
Why Choose Boneless Short Ribs?
- Ease of Preparation: No bone means less hassle when trimming or serving.
- Versatility: They can be braised, grilled, or even cooked in a slow cooker.
- Rich Flavor: Thanks to their marbling, boneless short ribs remain juicy and flavorful through long cooking processes.
Ingredients for Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make a mouthwatering plate of boneless beef short ribs:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Boneless beef short ribs | 2 pounds |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Onion powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Smoked paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh rosemary | 2 sprigs |
| Fresh thyme | 2 sprigs |
| Carrots (optional) | 2, sliced |
| Onion (optional) | 1, sliced |
Step-by-Step Instructions for Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe
1. Prepare the Meat
- Remove excess moisture by patting the boneless beef short ribs dry with a paper towel.
- Trim away any large pieces of fat, but leave some marbling to add flavor during cooking.
2. Season the Ribs
- Mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder.
- Rub the seasoning mixture generously over all sides of the ribs.
- Let the seasoning infuse into the meat to create the most flavorful boneless beef short ribs recipe.
3. Sear the Ribs
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sear the ribs for 2–3 minutes on each side, creating a golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and builds flavor.
- Set the seared ribs aside.
4. Prepare the Braising Liquid
- In the same skillet, pour in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce.
- Scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon for added flavor.
- Add fresh rosemary, thyme, and optional vegetables like carrots and onions to the liquid.
5. Braise the Ribs
- Return the seared short ribs to the skillet or transfer them to a baking dish.
- Pour the braising liquid over the ribs, making sure they are at least halfway submerged.
- Cover with a lid or foil and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F for 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Baste the ribs with the braising liquid every hour to keep them moist and flavorful.
6. Rest and Serve
- Once the ribs are fork-tender, remove them from the oven and let them rest for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot, spooning the braising liquid over the ribs for added flavor.
Tips for Perfect Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe
1. Choose High-Quality Meat
Select boneless short ribs with good marbling to add tenderness and flavor.
2. Don’t Skip Searing
Searing creates a flavorful crust that improves the final dish. It’s worth the extra step!
3. Cook Low and Slow
Patience is key—cooking at a lower temperature for a longer time allows the collagen to break down, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth ribs.
4. Use Fresh Herbs
Fresh rosemary and thyme bring a depth of flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate.
Creative Variations
Boneless beef short ribs are incredibly versatile, lending themselves to a variety of cuisines and cooking methods. Here are a few creative ideas:
1. Asian-Inspired Short Ribs
- Marinate the ribs in a mix of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil before cooking.
- Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish.
2. BBQ-Style Ribs
- After braising, brush the ribs with your favorite barbecue sauce and broil them for a caramelized finish.
3. Red Wine-Braised Ribs
- Replace the beef broth with red wine for a rich, luxurious flavor.
4. Slow Cooker Ribs
- For an even easier method, sear the ribs and transfer them to a slow cooker with the braising liquid. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Serving Suggestions
Boneless beef short ribs are delicious on their own but can be paired with the right sides. Here are some ideas:
Classic Pairings
- Creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the braising liquid.
- Roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
- Buttered egg noodles for a comforting twist.
Light and Fresh Options
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans.
Bread Options
- Serve with crusty bread to scoop up every bit of sauce.
Discover how this smoked beef short ribs recipe compares to its boneless counterpart.
FAQs About Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Q: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Boneless beef short ribs taste even better the next day. Let them cool, refrigerate, and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.
Q: Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, cuts like chuck roast or beef shank can work as substitutes, but they may require adjustments to cooking time.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat short ribs?
Reheat ribs in a covered baking dish with a bit of the braising liquid at 300°F until warmed through.
Conclusion
Boneless beef short ribs recipe is a versatile and delicious choice for any home cook looking to create a hearty, flavorful meal. By following this boneless beef short ribs recipe, you’ll achieve tender, juicy ribs that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you stick to the classic braising method or explore one of the creative variations, this boneless beef short ribs recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Now it’s your turn to try this boneless beef short ribs recipe. Gather your ingredients, fire up your oven, and treat yourself (and your loved ones) to the rich, comforting flavors of boneless beef short ribs. Don’t forget to share your results and inspire others to recreate this satisfying dish!