Unlock the secret to incredibly tender, fall-apart beef short ribs with this effortless Instant Pot recipe. Coated in a rich, savory gravy, these short ribs deliver a gourmet experience with minimal hands-on time, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a dish that tastes like it simmered all day, but comes together in a fraction of the time thanks to the magic of pressure cooking.
Why This Instant Pot Short Ribs Recipe is a Game-Changer
Ribs are a universally loved classic, celebrated for their succulent, melt-in-your-mouth texture and deeply satisfying beefy flavor. Whether prepared in the oven, grilled to perfection, slow-cooked for hours, or revolutionized in a pressure cooker, the allure of tender ribs is undeniable. Our Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs recipe stands out as a true game-changer, offering a hands-off approach that simplifies the cooking process without compromising on taste or tenderness. This method streamlines what is traditionally a lengthy endeavor into an achievable meal for any day of the week.
The beauty of making beef short ribs in the Instant Pot lies in its efficiency and ability to infuse profound flavor in a fraction of the traditional cooking time. You begin by searing the seasoned beef directly in the Instant Pot, a crucial step that develops a rich, caramelized crust and locks in moisture, setting the foundation for an extraordinary depth of flavor. This initial browning stage is one of the few hands-on moments, after which the pressure cooker takes over, transforming tough cuts into incredibly tender morsels. Once seared, you’ll add the gravy ingredients, allowing the ribs to braise under high pressure, ensuring every fiber of the meat is infused with savory goodness and transforms into that highly desired “fall-off-the-bone” tenderness. The result is a dish that tastes like it’s been slow-cooking all day, but is ready to delight your palate much sooner.
Essential Ingredients You Will Need
Crafting perfect Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs starts with selecting the right ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in building the robust flavor profile and achieving that coveted tender texture. Below is a comprehensive list of what you’ll need. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the detailed recipe card found at the end of this article.
Ingredient Deep Dive and Substitution Suggestions
Understanding your ingredients is key to successful cooking. Here’s a closer look at the stars of this recipe, along with helpful tips and potential substitutions to ensure your Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are nothing short of spectacular.
Beef Short Ribs
For this recipe, we specifically used bone-in beef short ribs. These cuts are renowned for their incredible flavor and succulence, largely due to the bone marrow which renders down during cooking, enriching the surrounding meat and liquid. The bone also helps to keep the meat moist and adds to the overall depth of flavor in the gravy. If you prefer, or if bone-in ribs are unavailable, you can absolutely use boneless beef short ribs. The cooking instructions will remain the same, though you might find the boneless variety cooks slightly faster and may yield a slightly less robust broth. Regardless of your choice, look for ribs with good marbling – streaks of fat running through the meat – as this will contribute to their tenderness and juiciness.
Bourbon
The addition of bourbon is not just for an alcoholic kick; it’s primarily used to enhance the savory notes and add a layer of complex richness to the beef and gravy. During the pressure cooking process, the alcohol content largely cooks out, leaving behind only its deep, nuanced flavor. It introduces subtle caramel and vanilla undertones that beautifully complement the beef. However, if you prefer to avoid alcohol or simply don’t have bourbon on hand, an equal amount of additional beef broth can be used as a direct substitute. While the flavor profile will be slightly different, your ribs will still be incredibly delicious and tender.
Other Key Ingredients
- Olive Oil: Essential for searing the ribs, helping to develop that crucial golden-brown crust.
- Garlic Salt & Smoked Paprika: These form the backbone of our seasoning blend, infusing the ribs with savory garlic notes and a smoky depth that is irresistible. Adjust to your taste preferences.
- Liquid Smoke: A powerful ingredient that imparts a genuine smoky flavor without the need for a smoker. Use sparingly, as a little goes a long way.
- Beef Broth: The foundational liquid for our pressure cooking and gravy. Choose a good quality, low-sodium beef broth to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
- Minced Garlic & Fresh Thyme Leaves: These aromatics are crucial for building a complex and herbaceous flavor profile in your gravy, elevating the dish beyond simple beef and sauce.
- Cornstarch & Water (Slurry): This simple mixture is used at the end to thicken the braising liquid into a luxurious, clingy gravy that perfectly complements the tender ribs.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs: Step-by-Step Perfection
These detailed step-by-step photos and instructions are provided to help you visualize each stage of making this incredible recipe. For a convenient printable version, complete with all measurements and instructions, scroll down to the full recipe card at the bottom of this post.
- Thoroughly rinse your beef short ribs under cold water to remove any bone fragments or impurities. Pat them completely dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a proper sear and helps seasonings adhere better.
EXPERT TIP – The ribs on the right plate illustrate the desired appearance after rinsing and patting dry, ensuring they are ready for seasoning and searing. This dryness is key for a beautiful brown crust.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the Instant Pot inner pot. Select the “Sauté” function and allow the oil to heat until shimmering.
- In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil with 1/2 tablespoon of smoked paprika and 1/2 tablespoon of garlic salt. Wearing gloves, thoroughly massage this seasoning mixture all over the dry short ribs, ensuring every surface is coated for maximum flavor.
- Carefully place the seasoned ribs into the hot Instant Pot. Sear them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, ensuring they brown on all sides. This step creates a delicious crust and enhances the overall beefy flavor.
- Once browned, remove the ribs from the Instant Pot and set them aside. Turn off the “Sauté” function.
- Deglaze the pot by adding the beef broth, bourbon (if using), the remaining 1/2 tablespoon garlic salt, 1/2 tablespoon smoked paprika, minced garlic, liquid smoke, and fresh thyme. Stir thoroughly with a wooden spoon or spatula, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These flavorful bits are essential for your gravy.
- Carefully return the seared ribs to the Instant Pot, nesting them in the liquid. Secure the lid, ensuring the sealing valve is in the “Sealing” position. Cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
- Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow a natural pressure release for approximately 15 minutes. This slow release helps to keep the meat incredibly tender and juicy. After 15 minutes, manually release any remaining pressure.
- Once the pressure is fully released, open the lid. Carefully remove the tender ribs from the Instant Pot and transfer them to a platter or bowl. Cover them loosely with foil to keep warm while you prepare the gravy.
- Turn the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a smooth slurry. Pour this slurry into the simmering liquid in the Instant Pot. Continuously whisk occasionally as the liquid heats, allowing the gravy to thicken to your desired consistency. This usually takes just a few minutes.
- Once the gravy has thickened, turn off the Instant Pot. Ladle the rich, flavorful gravy over the warm short ribs, or serve it on the side for dipping. Your incredibly tender Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are now ready to enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Short Ribs
Yes, searing your beef short ribs in the Instant Pot before pressure cooking is highly recommended and truly essential for optimal flavor. This initial browning step creates a delicate, caramelized crust on the exterior of the meat, which deepens the beef’s inherent flavors and locks in moisture. This technique is similar to what you’d do in many other braised meat recipes and significantly contributes to the rich, complex taste of the final dish. Don’t skip it!
For truly juicy, fall-apart tender beef short ribs, you’re aiming for an internal temperature considerably higher than a medium-rare steak. The ideal range is typically around 190°F to 205°F (88°C to 96°C). At this temperature, the connective tissues within the ribs break down into gelatin, resulting in that wonderfully tender, shreddable texture. You can verify this by inserting an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat, avoiding the bone.
Leftover Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are simply divine! Allow them to cool completely, then transfer them along with any remaining gravy to an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They reheat beautifully, often tasting even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. For reheating, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth if the gravy has thickened too much.
More Expert Tips:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: When searing, work in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the Instant Pot will steam the meat instead of browning it, preventing that delicious crust from forming.
- Deglazing is Key: After searing, make sure to scrape up all the browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the Instant Pot when adding the liquid. This fond contains immense flavor that will enrich your gravy significantly.
- Natural Release for Tenderness: While a quick release is faster, a natural pressure release for at least 10-15 minutes (or full natural release) is crucial for large cuts of meat like short ribs. It allows the meat to rest and reabsorb its juices, resulting in a more tender and moist outcome.
- Adjust Gravy Consistency: If your gravy isn’t as thick as you like after adding the cornstarch slurry, continue to simmer it on the “Sauté” function, whisking occasionally, until it reaches your desired consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a little extra beef broth.
- Seasoning to Taste: Always taste and adjust your seasonings before serving. Depending on the salt content of your beef broth and personal preference, you may want to add more salt, pepper, or other spices.
- Frozen Ribs? If starting with frozen short ribs, they will require a longer cooking time. It’s generally best to thaw them completely before proceeding with searing to achieve the best results.
Perfect Serving Suggestions for Your Short Ribs
These Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs, with their rich gravy and fall-apart tenderness, are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes. For a classic and comforting meal, serve them generously over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or velvety polenta, allowing the savory gravy to soak into every spoonful. Alternatively, consider pairing them with wholesome roasted vegetables such as carrots, cauliflower, broccoli, asparagus, or roasted green beans, which provide a delightful textural contrast and fresh flavor. Other excellent choices include fluffy white rice, egg noodles, or even a light, crisp salad to balance the richness of the meat. For a touch of elegance, consider a glass of a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot to complement the deep beef flavors.
Explore More Instant Pot Culinary Adventures
The Instant Pot is a marvel of modern kitchen technology, capable of transforming a wide array of ingredients into delicious meals with remarkable speed and efficiency. If you’ve enjoyed the ease and flavor of these beef short ribs, you’re in for a treat with other pressure cooker recipes. Dive into more culinary adventures and discover how effortlessly you can create mouth-watering dishes with your Instant Pot:
- Instant Pot Salmon: A quick and healthy seafood option.
- Instant Pot Beef Ribs: Another fantastic beef rib recipe for your repertoire.
- Instant Pot Pulled Pork: Perfect for sandwiches or tacos.
- Instant Pot Beef Stroganoff: A creamy, satisfying pasta dish.
- Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast: A zesty and tender pot roast.
- Instant Pot Ribs: Explore more rib variations for any craving.
I absolutely love spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with new recipes, and perfecting classic dishes. My greatest joy is sharing these culinary discoveries and experiences with all of you! To make sure you never miss out on a delicious new recipe, I offer a convenient newsletter delivered straight to your inbox every time a new post goes live. Simply subscribe here and start receiving your free daily recipes, bringing fresh inspiration to your table!
Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions and Expert Tips within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef short ribs (around 7 ribs)
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1 Tablespoon garlic salt
- 1 Tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 Tablespoons liquid smoke
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ Tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ Tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 4 Tablespoons Bourbon
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch
- ¼ cup water
Things You’ll Need
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Instant Pot
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Vinyl gloves
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
Before You Begin
- We used bone-in beef short ribs for this recipe. You can certainly use boneless with the same instructions if preferred.
- The alcohol content in this recipe is cooked out during the pressure cooking process. It primarily adds rich, complex flavor to the beef. However, if you prefer, you can substitute the bourbon with an additional 4 tablespoons of beef broth.
Instructions
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Rinse ribs in water and pat dry with paper towels.
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Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to the Instant Pot and turn on saute function.
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Mix remaining olive oil with 1/2 tablespoon of smoked paprika and 1/2 tablespoon of garlic salt. With gloved hands, massage mixture all over the ribs.
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Saute ribs in Instant Pot until browned on all sides.
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Remove ribs.
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Add broth, bourbon, remaining garlic salt, remaining smoked paprika, minced garlic, liquid smoke, and fresh thyme to the Instant Pot. Stir together, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom.
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Add ribs back to the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes. Do a natural release (about 15 minutes).
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Remove ribs and set aside to keep warm.
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Turn the Instant Pot to the saute function.
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Using a fork or small whisk, mix together the cornstarch and water in a small bowl to create a slurry. Add to the remaining liquid in the Instant Pot. Using the saute function, whisk occasionally until thickened to your desired gravy consistency.
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Turn off Instant Pot and remove gravy to serve with ribs.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.