Short ribs are one of the most satisfying cuts of beef, with their rich marbling and deep, beefy flavor. Cooking them in an air fryer is a game-changer, producing juicy, tender meat with a perfectly caramelized exterior.
This recipe delivers an irresistible combination of savory, slightly sweet, and umami-packed flavors. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy short ribs without the long braising time, this air fryer method is the way to go!
1. Air Fryer Short Ribs Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ pounds boneless beef short ribs
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade
In a medium bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, water, sesame oil, rice wine vinegar, chopped green onions, and minced garlic. Stir well until the sugar dissolves. This marinade enhances the beef’s natural richness while adding a delicious balance of sweetness and acidity.
Marinate the Short Ribs
Place the boneless short ribs in a large zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the meat, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Let them marinate for at least 1 hour, but for the best flavor, refrigerate them overnight.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to preheat for about 3 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and helps create a beautiful sear on the outside of the ribs.
Arrange the Ribs in the Air Fryer
Remove the short ribs from the marinade and let any excess liquid drip off. Arrange them in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can prevent proper air circulation and affect the crispiness.
Cook the Ribs
Air fry the short ribs for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The exterior should caramelize beautifully while the inside remains juicy and tender. If you prefer a deeper char, increase the cooking time by 2-3 minutes.
Rest and Serve
Once cooked, remove the ribs from the air fryer and let them rest for about 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite more flavorful. Garnish with extra chopped green onions or sesame seeds before serving.
2. Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Short Ribs
Marinate for Maximum Flavor
The longer the short ribs marinate, the more flavorful they become. Overnight marination enhances tenderness and allows the seasoning to penetrate deeply into the meat.
Pat Dry Before Cooking
Excess marinade can cause steaming rather than searing. Lightly pat the ribs dry with a paper towel before placing them in the air fryer to achieve a crispier exterior.
Use a Meat Thermometer
For perfectly cooked short ribs, aim for an internal temperature of 140-145°F (60-63°C) for medium or 150°F (65°C) for well-done. An instant-read thermometer helps prevent overcooking.
Avoid Overcrowding
Cooking in batches ensures even airflow and a more consistent texture. If necessary, cook in multiple rounds instead of stacking the meat.
Brush with Extra Marinade
To enhance the flavor, brush a little leftover (unused) marinade on the short ribs halfway through cooking. This adds depth to the caramelization.
3. Serving Suggestions
These air fryer short ribs are versatile, and you can pair them with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
Rice or Noodles: Serve the ribs over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or stir-fried noodles. The sweet and savory sauce from the ribs pairs wonderfully with both options.
Steamed Veggies: A light side of steamed broccoli or bok choy complements the richness of the ribs. The crispness of the vegetables adds balance to the dish.
Salad: For a lighter option, a fresh cucumber and sesame salad can cut through the richness of the ribs with its crunch and tangy dressing.
Kimchi: If you’re into bold flavors, a side of kimchi is an excellent pairing. The spice and tanginess work perfectly with the sweetness of the ribs.
4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storage: Allow the short ribs to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months, though the texture may change slightly after freezing.
Reheating: To reheat, place the leftover ribs back in the air fryer at 375°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through. If you froze them, it’s best to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating. You could also reheat them in a microwave, but the air fryer will help retain the crispiness.
Cooking short ribs in the air fryer is a fantastic way to enjoy this flavorful cut with minimal effort. Personally, I love how the air fryer method simplifies the cooking process while still delivering restaurant-quality results.
If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious short rib recipe, this one is a must-try. The crispy edges, juicy center, and bold flavors make it an instant favorite. Give it a shot, and you might never go back to traditional cooking methods for short ribs again!
