Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Tender in a Fraction of the Time: Instant Pot pressure cooking speeds up traditional slow-cooked ribs.

  • Rich Flavor: Braised in a savory sauce that perfectly complements the beef.

  • Minimal Hands-On Time: Set it and let the Instant Pot do the work.

  • Perfect for Any Season: Great for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 pounds beef short ribs

  • Salt and pepper to taste

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 onion, sliced

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

Directions

  1. Season and Sear: Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Sear ribs on all sides until browned, about 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

  2. Sauté Aromatics: Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.

  3. Deglaze Pot: Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up browned bits from the bottom.

  4. Add Ingredients: Stir in soy sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and thyme. Return ribs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.

  5. Pressure Cook: Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.

  6. Serve: Remove ribs from pot and serve with sauce spooned over the top.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 6

  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes

  • Cooking Time: 45 minutes

  • Total Time: About 1 hour (including pressure release)

Variations

  • Spicy Twist: Add chili flakes or hot sauce to the braising liquid.

  • Sweet and Tangy: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce.

  • Add Vegetables: Cook with carrots and potatoes for a complete meal.

  • Slow Cooker Alternative: Braise ribs on low for 6-8 hours.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

  • Freezing: Freeze ribs and sauce in portions for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, substitute with additional beef broth.

How do I know ribs are done?

They should be tender and easily pull away from the bone.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, increase cooking time slightly if needed.

What cut of ribs is best?

Flanken or English-style short ribs work well.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein.

Can I use frozen ribs?

Best to thaw before cooking for even results.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer sauce on sauté mode to reduce or add a cornstarch slurry.

Can I prepare ahead of time?

Yes, make ahead and reheat before serving.

What sides pair well?

Mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool quickly and refrigerate in airtight containers.

Conclusion

Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs deliver tender, flavorful meat in a fraction of traditional cooking time. This easy recipe is perfect for satisfying dinners with minimal effort, making delicious, fall-off-the-bone ribs accessible anytime you crave them.

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Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs

Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs

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Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are a quick and easy way to enjoy tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs with rich, savory flavors. Using the Instant Pot drastically reduces cooking time while infusing the meat with a deep, hearty taste perfect for a comforting meal.

  • Author: Laura
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: About 1 hour (including pressure release)
  • Yield: 6 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Instant Pot
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients


  1. 3 pounds beef short ribs

    Salt and pepper to taste

    2 tablespoons olive oil

    1 onion, sliced

    4 cloves garlic, minced

    1 cup beef broth

    1/2 cup red wine (optional)

    1/4 cup soy sauce

    2 tablespoons tomato paste

    2 tablespoons brown sugar

    1 teaspoon smoked paprika

    1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Set Instant Pot to sauté mode and heat olive oil. Sear ribs on all sides until browned, about 3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

  1. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  2. Pour in beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
  3. Stir in soy sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and thyme. Return ribs to the pot, nestling them into the liquid.
  4. Seal the lid and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then quick release remaining pressure.
  5. Remove ribs from pot and serve with sauce spooned over the top.

Notes

  1. Add chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy twist.
  2. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce for a sweet and tangy flavor.
  3. Cook with carrots and potatoes for a complete meal.
  4. Use the slow cooker method by braising ribs on low for 6-8 hours if preferred.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (about 6 oz meat)
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 17g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 5g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg
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