Short ribs are a comforting, hearty dish that traditionally takes hours to cook. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can achieve fall-off-the-bone tender beef short ribs in a fraction of the time, using just five simple ingredients. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a flavorful, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
1. Instant Pot Short Ribs (5 Ingredients)
Ingredients
- 2 ½ – 3 lbs (1.1–1.4 kg) beef short ribs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup barbecue sauce (or your favorite sauce)
Instructions
Step 1: Season the Short Ribs
Sprinkle the salt and pepper evenly over the short ribs, making sure to coat all sides. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the beef.
Step 2: Brown the Ribs (Optional)
For added flavor, use the Sauté function on the Instant Pot. Add a drizzle of oil and sear the short ribs for 2-3 minutes per side until browned. While optional, this step adds depth to the dish by caramelizing the surface of the meat.
Step 3: Add the Liquid
Pour the beef broth into the Instant Pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom if you seared the meat. Add the barbecue sauce and stir to combine. Place the short ribs into the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to Sealing. Cook on High Pressure for 45 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the short ribs from the Instant Pot and spoon some of the sauce over the top. The meat should be incredibly tender and easily pull away from the bone. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
2. Tips for the Perfect Beef Short Ribs in Instant Pot
Choose the Right Cut: Bone-in short ribs are ideal for this recipe, as the bone adds flavor and helps keep the meat tender. Boneless short ribs can also be used but may cook slightly faster.
Don’t Skip the Sauce: The barbecue sauce not only flavors the ribs but also helps create a rich, sticky glaze. If you prefer something less sweet, substitute the barbecue sauce with a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for an Asian-inspired twist.
Layer the Flavors: If you have time, searing the ribs before pressure cooking adds a caramelized depth that enhances the overall taste. Use the Sauté function to brown the ribs directly in the Instant Pot.
Adjust the Cooking Time: If your ribs are particularly meaty or thick, add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for the best results.
Thicken the Sauce: For a thicker sauce after cooking, use the Sauté function to simmer the liquid until it reduces. Alternatively, whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and water (1 teaspoon each) to thicken it quickly.
3. Serving Suggestions
These Instant Pot short ribs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas to create a well-rounded meal:
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, soaking up the rich, flavorful sauce.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve the short ribs over steamed rice or quinoa for a simple and satisfying base.
Roasted Vegetables: Oven-roasted carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus complement the richness of the beef.
Buttered Noodles: Egg noodles or pasta tossed in butter and herbs make an excellent side dish.
Crusty Bread: Use a warm loaf of crusty bread to mop up every bit of the savory sauce.
4. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Storing: Place leftover short ribs and sauce in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat the short ribs in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a splash of beef broth to loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out.
Microwave: Place the short ribs in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a lid or damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
These Instant Pot Short Ribs (5 Ingredients) are a game-changer for creating a rich, flavorful dish with minimal effort. The Instant Pot transforms this tough cut of beef into tender, juicy perfection in under an hour. Paired with your favorite sides, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, family gatherings, or when you simply crave a comforting meal. With its simplicity and bold flavors, this dish will quickly become a staple in your recipe collection!
