The smell of slow-cooked beef short ribs brings back memories of childhood. My mother would often simmer short ribs on the stovetop. It was a comforting sight that I loved.
Waiting for that first bite was always exciting. The meat was so tender, it felt like it melted in your mouth. This feeling has stayed with me forever.
In this article, we’ll dive into making a delicious boneless beef short ribs recipe. It’s perfect for both experienced cooks and beginners. We’ll cover the key steps to get the right flavor and texture in your dish.
Understanding Boneless Beef Short Ribs: A Perfect Cut for Slow Cooking
Boneless beef short ribs are a treat for your taste buds. They are tender and full of flavor. This cut is great for slow cooking, making it easy to prepare and enjoy.
Different Grades of Beef Short Ribs
Not all beef short ribs are the same. The meat’s quality affects its taste and tenderness. Here’s a quick guide to the different grades:
- Prime: The highest quality, with exceptional marbling and flavor.
- Choice: An excellent option, with good marbling and a balance of tenderness and taste.
- Select: A more budget-friendly choice, with less marbling but still offering a satisfying texture and flavor.
Why Choose Boneless Over Bone-in Ribs
Boneless beef short ribs have their perks. They are easier to prepare and serve. This makes them perfect for those with busy schedules.
The lack of bones also means more even cooking. This ensures every bite is tender and full of flavor.
Boneless Beef Short Ribs | Bone-in Beef Short Ribs |
---|---|
Easier to prep and cook | Require more time and effort to prepare |
More uniform cooking and texture | Bone-in adds extra flavor but can result in uneven cooking |
Convenient for serving | Bones can make portioning and serving more challenging |
Choosing between boneless or bone-in beef short ribs depends on your preference. The most important thing is to pick a high-quality cut. With proper slow cooking, you’ll enjoy a delicious short ribs recipe.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Slow-Cooked Short Ribs
Making delicious slow-cooked beef short ribs starts with the right ingredients. Whether it’s a classic beef short ribs recipe or a tasty marinade, choose the freshest and most aromatic parts. This will bring out the natural richness of the boneless short ribs.
The heart of this dish is the beef short ribs. Choose well-marbled, flavorful beef short ribs for tender results. Add herbs like rosemary, thyme, and garlic to the boneless short ribs marinade. These will add depth and complexity.
For a rich braising liquid, use bold red wine, beef or chicken stock, and a bit of tomato paste or Worcestershire sauce. These will tenderize the meat and create a delicious sauce for your beef short ribs recipe.
Don’t forget to add vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery. They add flavor and texture to the dish. These ingredients will make your beef short ribs dish unforgettable, with everyone wanting more.

Ingredient | Purpose |
---|---|
Boneless beef short ribs | The star of the dish, providing rich, tender flavor. |
Rosemary, thyme, garlic | Aromatic herbs and spices that infuse the boneless short ribs marinade with depth. |
Red wine, beef or chicken stock | The foundation of the braising liquid, tenderizing the meat and creating a flavorful sauce. |
Carrots, onions, celery | Vegetables that add texture and balance the richness of the beef short ribs recipe. |
With these key ingredients, you’re ready to make an amazing beef short ribs recipe. Your guests will be amazed by your cooking skills.
Preparing Your Boneless Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Start making the perfect boneless beef short ribs by following these key steps. Trimming fat and making a tasty marinade are crucial. These tips will make your dish tender and full of flavor every time.
Trimming and Seasoning Tips
First, remove any extra fat from the short ribs. This makes the meat cook better and avoids greasiness. Then, season the ribs with your favorite spices like salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Make sure to rub the seasoning well into the meat for the best flavor.
Creating the Perfect Marinade
- Mix red wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar in a large bag or dish.
- Put the seasoned short ribs in the marinade, making sure they’re covered.
- Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours, to soak in the flavors.
Pre-cooking Preparation Steps
- Take the marinated ribs out of the fridge and let them warm up for 30 minutes.
- Heat your oven to 300°F to 325°F.
- Wipe the ribs dry with paper towels for a better sear.
By following these steps, you’re on your way to a mouthwatering boneless beef short ribs recipe. It will be full of flavor and tender.
The Art of Searing Short Ribs
Searing your beef short ribs before slow cooking is key. It makes the dish taste better and feel more tender. This step creates a tasty crust on the meat, keeping the juices inside.
To get a great sear, follow some important steps. First, dry the ribs well with paper towels. This helps them brown better. Then, heat a big pan or Dutch oven over high heat until it’s very hot.
Add a thin layer of oil like avocado or grapeseed. Wait until it starts to shimmer and almost smoke.
- Put the beef short ribs in the pan carefully. Don’t overcrowd it. This lets the meat sear, not steam.
- Let the ribs sear for 2-3 minutes on the first side. You’ll see a deep, caramelized crust form.
- Flip the ribs and sear the other sides. Make sure they get an even, golden-brown color.
Getting a perfect sear takes patience and high heat. Don’t move the ribs too much. This helps the crust form well. After searing, the beef short ribs are ready for braising or slow-cooking. They’ll be tender and full of flavor.
By using these beef short ribs cooking tips, you’ll become a pro at searing. Your beef short ribs recipe will impress everyone. It will be full of flavor and tender.
Creating the Perfect Braising Liquid
The secret to delicious braised boneless beef short ribs is in the braising liquid. Finding the right mix of flavors is key to bringing out the meat’s full taste. Let’s look at what makes a great braising liquid for your braised beef short ribs.
Wine and Stock Combinations
A good braising liquid starts with the right mix of liquids. Red wine and beef or chicken stock make a rich base. This base will add depth and character to your beef short ribs in red wine.
Choose a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. It gives a bold flavor.
Herb and Aromatics Selection
Adding herbs and aromatics to the braising liquid can elevate your flavorful beef short ribs. Ingredients like thyme, rosemary, garlic, and onions enhance the savory taste. They create a perfect blend with the beef.
Try different mixes to find your favorite flavor.
Herb | Aroma | Flavor Impact |
---|---|---|
Thyme | Earthy, slightly minty | Enhances the meatiness of the short ribs |
Rosemary | Woody, slightly pine-like | Adds depth and complexity to the braising liquid |
Garlic | Pungent, slightly sweet | Infuses the short ribs with savory, umami flavors |
Onion | Sweet, slightly pungent | Contributes to the overall balance and richness of the dish |
By picking the right wine, stock, herbs, and aromatics, you can make a braising liquid that turns your boneless beef short ribs into a standout dish.
Slow Cooking Temperature and Timing Guide
Getting your boneless beef short ribs just right is all about slow cooking. Whether you’re using your oven or a slow cooker, knowing the best temperature and timing is crucial. This ensures your tender beef short ribs are delicious.
Oven-Braised Short Ribs
For oven-braised short ribs, heat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Put the seasoned beef short ribs slow cooker in a heavy-duty, oven-safe Dutch oven or casserole dish. Cover it tightly with a lid or foil and let it braise for 2.5 to 3.5 hours. The meat should be fork-tender by then.
Slow Cooker Short Ribs
When how to cook boneless beef short ribs in a slow cooker, set it to low. Let the ribs cook for 7 to 9 hours. This slow, tender beef short ribs cooking makes the meat soft and flavorful.
To check if your beef short ribs slow cooker are done, use a fork to gently prod the meat. It should be fork-tender and easily shred away from the bone (or where the bone would be, in the case of boneless ribs).
Cooking Method | Temperature | Cooking Time |
---|---|---|
Oven Braise | 300°F (150°C) | 2.5 – 3.5 hours |
Slow Cooker | Low | 7 – 9 hours |
Selecting the Right Vegetables for Your Short Ribs
Choosing the right vegetables is key for slow-cooked beef short ribs. You want veggies that can handle long cooking times. They should also match the rich taste of short ribs with vegetables.
Best Root Vegetables for Slow Cooking
For a classic beef short ribs recipe, pick carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. These veggies stay firm even after hours of cooking. Their sweetness also goes well with the savory comfort food short ribs.
When to Add Different Vegetables
- Start with harder veggies like carrots and parsnips. They get tender and add earthy flavors.
- Put in softer veggies like potatoes and onions halfway through. This keeps them from getting too soft.
- Add leafy greens like kale or spinach towards the end. This keeps their color and texture bright.
Timing the veggies right makes the dish balanced. It ensures the beef short ribs and veggies work well together.
Sauce Reduction and Finishing Touches
Improving your beef short ribs recipe starts with the sauce. After the flavorful beef short ribs are tender, focus on making a rich sauce. This sauce will enhance the dish. The trick is to reduce the cooking liquid to intensify flavors and get the right consistency.
First, move the cooked short ribs to a platter. Leave the liquid in the pot. Heat the pot over medium-high until the liquid simmers. Let it reduce, stirring now and then, until it’s thick like a sauce, about 15-20 minutes. Watch it closely to avoid it getting too thick.
When the sauce is thick enough, season it with salt and black pepper. Add a bit of red wine vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This will make your best beef short ribs recipe even more delicious.
The secret to great flavorful beef short ribs is the sauce. By following these steps and adding your own flair, you’ll make a beef short ribs recipe that wows everyone.
Side Dish Recommendations for Short Ribs
Choosing the right side dishes for your boneless short ribs for dinner is key. These comfort food short ribs go well with many options. You can pick from starches or veggies to make your meal even better.
Mashed potatoes are a top pick. Their creamy texture contrasts well with the beef short ribs recipe. Polenta is another great choice. It’s mild in flavor but sturdy enough to hold the braising liquid.
- Roasted root veggies like carrots, parsnips, and potatoes add sweetness and heft to your meal.
- A crisp salad with tangy dressing can cut the richness of the short ribs.
- For a filling side, try serving the ribs over creamy polenta or mashed potatoes.
Side Dish | Complement to Slow-Cooked Boneless Short Ribs |
---|---|
Mashed Potatoes | The creamy texture and buttery flavor pair perfectly with the tender boneless short ribs for dinner. |
Polenta | The subtle flavor of polenta provides a sturdy base to soak up the savory braising liquid of the beef short ribs recipe. |
Roasted Vegetables | The sweetness and heartiness of roasted root vegetables complement the richness of the comfort food short ribs. |
Fresh Salad | A tangy vinaigrette-dressed salad can help balance the decadence of the slow-cooked boneless short ribs for dinner. |
Whatever side dishes you pick, they’ll make your beef short ribs recipe even more special. They’ll add a delightful touch to these tender, flavorful boneless short ribs for dinner.
Storing and Reheating Guidelines
After enjoying your slow-cooked beef short ribs, you might have leftovers. It’s important to store them right to keep them tender and juicy. Let the ribs cool down, then put them in an airtight container or plastic bag. Store them in the fridge for 3-4 days, keeping them at 40°F or below.
Proper Storage Methods
If you want to keep your short ribs longer, freeze them. Put them in a freezer-safe container or bag, squeezing out air before sealing. Frozen ribs can last up to 3 months. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating Without Losing Tenderness
To reheat your short ribs without losing their tenderness, use gentle methods. The best way is to reheat them in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F for 15-20 minutes. You can also reheat them on the stovetop over low heat, adding broth or sauce to keep them moist. This way, your beef short ribs recipe stays tender and easy to enjoy.
FAQ
What are the benefits of using boneless beef short ribs?
Boneless beef short ribs are great for slow cooking. Boneless beef short ribs become very tender and flavorful. Additionally, they are easier to handle and portion because they don’t have bones.
They have a higher meat-to-bone ratio. This means you get more delicious meat in each serving.
What is the best way to season boneless beef short ribs?
To season boneless beef short ribs, start by patting them dry. Then, season all over with salt and pepper. You can also make a flavorful marinade.
Combine red wine, soy sauce, garlic, and herbs for the marinade. Letting the ribs marinate for a few hours or overnight will add amazing flavor.
How do I sear boneless beef short ribs before slow cooking?
Searing the short ribs before slow cooking is key. It helps develop a delicious crust and caramelized flavor. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed pan or Dutch oven over high heat.
Add a bit of oil and sear the ribs on all sides until they develop a nice brown crust. This takes about 2-3 minutes per side.
What’s the best way to slow cook boneless beef short ribs?
For the most tender and flavorful ribs, slow cook them either in the oven or in a slow cooker. In the oven, braise the ribs in a flavorful liquid like wine, stock, or a combination. Cook at a low temperature (around 275°F) for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is falling off the bone.
In a slow cooker, cook the ribs on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours. This will make them incredibly tender.
What are some good vegetable pairings for slow-cooked boneless beef short ribs?
Classic root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, onions, and celery work well with slow-cooked short ribs. Add these vegetables directly to the braising liquid to cook alongside the ribs. They’ll absorb all the rich, flavorful juices.
You can also roast or sauté vegetables separately. This way, you can serve them as a side dish.
How do I store and reheat leftover boneless beef short ribs?
To store leftover boneless beef short ribs, let them cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
To reheat, place the short ribs and any remaining cooking liquid in a baking dish. Cover and heat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat them in a slow cooker on the low setting until heated.

Boneless Beef Short Ribs
Equipment
- Dutch oven (notes: or large oven-safe pot)
- Large skillet (notes: for searing)
- Ladle
- Mesh strainer (notes: for the sauce)
Ingredients
- 3 lbs Boneless beef short ribs notes: well-marbled
- 1 tablespoon Salt
- 1 tablespoon Black pepper
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil notes: or avocado oil for searing
- 1 Onion notes: chopped
- 2 Carrots notes: sliced
- 2 Celery stalks notes: chopped
- 3 Garlic cloves notes: minced
- 1 cup Red wine notes: full-bodied like Cabernet Sauvignon
- 2 cups Beef stock
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 2 sprigs Fresh thyme
- 1 sprig Fresh rosemary
- 2 Bay leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F or set your slow cooker to low.
- Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
- Remove the ribs and set aside. In the same pot, add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic, sautéing for 5 minutes.
- Add red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up browned bits. Let the wine reduce by half.
- Stir in beef stock, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Return the short ribs to the pot.
- Cover and braise in the oven for 3-4 hours or cook on low in the slow cooker for 6-8 hours, until the meat is tender and pulls apart easily.
- Remove the ribs and strain the cooking liquid. Simmer the liquid on medium heat until reduced and thickened into a sauce.
- Serve the ribs with sauce drizzled on top, alongside your favorite sides.