Melt-in-Your-Mouth Instant Pot Short Ribs

Short ribs are a classic dish known for their rich, meaty flavor and tender texture. However, cooking them can be a time-consuming task. Fortunately, with the Instant Pot, you can make Instant Pot Short Ribs that are melt-in-your-mouth tender in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional methods. These ribs are braised to perfection, offering deep flavors and a beautifully tender texture, all thanks to the magic of pressure cooking.

This recipe takes the guesswork out of cooking short ribs, making it easier than ever to prepare a comforting, flavorful meal. You can cook them from frozen, and the end result will be succulent ribs that fall off the bone with every bite. The key to making these ribs so delicious lies in the careful balance of spices, broth, and the use of a secret ingredient that elevates the flavor to new heights.

Whether you’re preparing a special dinner for family and friends or meal prepping for the week, Instant Pot short ribs are a versatile and rewarding dish that everyone will love. Let’s get started!

Why Instant Pot Short Ribs Are So Amazing

Tender, fall-off-the-bone texture: The Instant Pot works its magic by tenderizing the meat quickly while keeping it juicy. The pressure cooking locks in the flavors and ensures the ribs are cooked to perfection every time.

Saves time: Traditional short ribs recipes can take hours to prepare, but with the Instant Pot, you can have tender, flavorful ribs ready in less than two hours, even when starting with frozen meat!

Flavorful braise: The secret to great short ribs is in the braising liquid. The Instant Pot helps the meat absorb all the flavors from the spices, broth, and secret ingredient, making each bite rich and satisfying.

Ingredients for Instant Pot Short Ribs

To make the best Instant Pot short ribs, you will need the following ingredients:

• Beef short ribs: Choose bone-in beef short ribs for the best flavor. The meat is marbled with fat, which helps keep it tender and juicy during cooking.

• Bourbon whiskey: This is the secret ingredient that adds a rich depth of flavor to the braising liquid. If you’re not a fan of bourbon, you can substitute it with red wine or even coffee.

• Beef stock: This forms the base of the braising liquid and provides a savory depth to the dish.

• Onion, garlic, and thyme: These aromatics are essential for creating a flavorful braising liquid. They infuse the ribs with a savory aroma as they cook.

• Spices: Paprika, cayenne pepper, and sugar help balance the heat and sweetness of the dish, creating a perfect flavor profile.

• Balsamic vinegar: This adds a touch of acidity and helps cut through the richness of the beef.

How to Make Instant Pot Short Ribs

Step 1: Prepare the Short Ribs

Before cooking, it’s important to prep the short ribs properly:

• Rinse and dry: Soak the beef short ribs in cold water for a couple of minutes to wash off any excess blood and bone dust. Then, pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Dry ribs sear better and create that perfect golden crust.

• Season generously: Sprinkle the short ribs generously with salt on both sides. This step is essential for building flavor.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs

• Set your Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat 2 tablespoons of oil.

• Sear the ribs in batches: Once the oil is hot, add 3-4 short ribs to the pot. Sear on all sides for 2-3 minutes until the meat forms a beautiful caramelized crust. Make sure not to overcrowd the pot, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing.

• After searing, transfer the ribs to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Braising Liquid

• In the same pot, add 1 tablespoon of oil if necessary, and add thickly sliced onion. Sauté for 2 minutes, then pour in ½ cup of bourbon (or your preferred substitute).

• Deglaze the pot by scraping up all the caramelized bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. These bits add a ton of flavor to the braise!

• Add paprika, cayenne pepper, sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Stir well to combine.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Ribs

• Return the short ribs to the pot, making sure they are nestled into the liquid and aromatics.

• Add 6 cloves of garlic and 2-3 fresh thyme sprigs to the pot.

• Pour in 1 cup of beef stock, ensuring the liquid covers the ribs.

• Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to high pressure for 45 minutes.

• Once the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10-15 minutes before quick releasing any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Make the Gravy

• Remove the short ribs and set them aside.

• Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode again and bring the remaining liquid to a simmer.

• Thicken the sauce by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water, then stir it into the simmering liquid. Let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens to a gravy-like consistency.

• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt or more balsamic vinegar, if needed.

Step 6: Serve

• Place the short ribs back into the pot, spooning the thickened sauce over them.

• Serve the short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower, roasted vegetables, or even over a bed of rice. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of the gravy.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Instant Pot Short Ribs

• Don’t skip the searing step: While it may seem like an extra step, searing the short ribs before pressure cooking adds a deep, caramelized flavor that enhances the final dish.

• Adjust the spice level: If you like your short ribs spicier, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chili flakes to the braising liquid.

• Use homemade stock: While store-bought beef stock works fine, homemade stock will elevate the flavor of your short ribs. If you’re short on time, a good-quality beef broth will do.

• Make ahead: Like many braised dishes, Instant Pot short ribs are even better the next day! If you have leftovers, store them in the fridge, and the flavors will continue to develop overnight.

Variations and Substitutes for Instant Pot Short Ribs

While this recipe is fantastic as written, there are several ways you can make it your own based on dietary preferences, available ingredients, or the type of meal you want to create. Here are some variations and substitutes you can try:

1. Different Cuts of Meat

Although short ribs are the star of this recipe, you can easily adapt it to other cuts of meat:

• Beef brisket: If you prefer a different cut, beef brisket works wonderfully with the same braising method. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if using larger pieces.

• Lamb ribs: For a slightly more gamey flavor, lamb ribs are an excellent substitute. They will need the same cooking time as beef short ribs in the Instant Pot.

2. Non-Alcoholic Options

If you’re avoiding alcohol, there are several ways to substitute the bourbon without compromising flavor:

• Red wine: It provides a similar depth of flavor, though it will impart a slightly different taste.

• Coffee: A rich, dark roast coffee can mimic the depth and bitterness of bourbon.

• Apple cider vinegar: If you prefer something without the alcohol, apple cider vinegar can replace the bourbon for a tangy twist that enhances the savory flavors.

3. Vegetable and Side Dish Variations

• Roasted root vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and turnips make a wonderful, hearty side dish. Roast them separately to get a caramelized exterior, and pair them with your ribs for a complete meal.

• Mashed cauliflower: For a low-carb option, swap mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower. The creamy texture complements the richness of the ribs.

4. Spicy Variations

If you like your food on the spicier side, increase the cayenne pepper and paprika. Alternatively, add a few diced jalapeños or chili peppers to the braising liquid for an extra kick. You can also drizzle some hot sauce over the ribs before serving for those who prefer an added spice punch.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

Instant Pot short ribs make fantastic leftovers, and they’re incredibly versatile when repurposed for future meals. Here are some ideas on how to enjoy them the next day:

1. Leftover Short Ribs for Tacos

Shred the leftover short ribs and use them to make beef tacos. Simply heat the shredded meat with some of the braising liquid and spoon it onto warm tortillas. Top with fresh cilantro, salsa, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious twist.

2. Beef Fried Rice

Repurpose the ribs in beef fried rice. Chop the leftover meat into small pieces and stir-fry it with cooked rice, scrambled eggs, peas, carrots, and soy sauce for a flavorful meal.

3. Steak and Eggs

For a hearty breakfast or brunch, serve the leftover short ribs with eggs and toast. This makes a great steak and eggs meal, perfect for a weekend breakfast.

4. Soup or Stew

Transform the leftover short ribs into a comforting soup or stew. Simply shred the meat and add it to a pot with vegetables, beans, and some of the remaining braising liquid to make a rich, flavorful broth.

Serving Suggestions for Instant Pot Short Ribs

While these Instant Pot short ribs are already packed with flavor, pairing them with the right sides can elevate the meal even more. Here are some ideas for what to serve with your tender, succulent short ribs:

1. Mashed Potatoes

A classic side dish, mashed potatoes are the perfect accompaniment to the rich, flavorful ribs. The creamy texture helps balance the depth of flavor in the short ribs, and the gravy from the ribs makes an excellent topping for the potatoes.

2. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes are a great choice. The natural sweetness of these vegetables pairs beautifully with the savory flavor of the ribs. Roasting them adds a bit of caramelization that enhances the dish.

3. Garlic Bread

To help soak up all that delicious gravy, serve your short ribs with some crispy garlic bread. The bread will absorb the flavorful juices, making every bite even better.

4. Green Beans Almondine

For a lighter side, try green beans almondine. The freshness of the green beans, paired with the crunchy toasted almonds, creates a nice contrast to the richness of the short ribs.

5. Creamy Polenta

Another wonderful option is creamy polenta. The creamy texture of polenta complements the tender ribs and adds an extra layer of comfort to your meal.

Instant Pot Short Ribs for Special Occasions

This recipe for Instant Pot short ribs is perfect for special occasions or family gatherings. It’s an easy way to prepare an impressive meal with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

1. Holiday Dinners

Short ribs are an excellent choice for holiday dinners, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. Their rich, hearty flavor pairs well with a variety of side dishes, making it a great centerpiece for your holiday table.

2. Date Night or Dinner Parties

If you’re hosting a dinner party or cooking for a date night, these short ribs will impress your guests. The recipe is simple yet sophisticated, offering a touch of elegance without being overly complicated.

Instant Pot Short Ribs Recipe Card

Ingredients:

• 6 lbs bone-in beef short ribs (about 8 short ribs)

• Salt to season generously

• 1 medium onion, thickly sliced

• ½ cup bourbon (or red wine/coffee as a substitute)

• 1 tbsp paprika

• 1 tsp cayenne pepper (or 2 tsp for extra spice)

• 3 tbsp sugar (adjust to taste)

• 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 6 cloves garlic, smashed

• 2-3 fresh thyme sprigs

• 1 cup beef stock (or a mix of homemade beef and chicken broth)

• 1 tbsp cornstarch (cornflour)

• 1 tbsp water

Instructions:

• Prepare the Short Ribs:

• Rinse the short ribs in cold water for a few minutes to remove any excess blood and bone dust.

• Pat them dry with paper towels and generously season with salt on all sides.

• Sear the Ribs:

• Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and heat 2 tbsp of oil.

• Sear the short ribs in batches for about 2-3 minutes per side until they develop a golden-brown crust.

• Remove the seared ribs and set them aside on a plate.

• Prepare the Braising Liquid:

• Add 1 tbsp oil to the Instant Pot and sauté the sliced onion for 2 minutes until softened.

• Pour in ½ cup of bourbon (or your substitute), deglaze the pot by scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom.

• Add paprika, cayenne pepper, sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine.

• Cook the Ribs:

• Place the short ribs back into the pot and add garlic, thyme, and a pinch of salt.

• Pour in the beef stock, ensuring the ribs are partially submerged.

• Seal the Instant Pot and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.

• After cooking, allow a 10-15 minute natural release before quick releasing any remaining pressure.

• Make the Gravy:

• Remove the short ribs and set aside.

• Turn the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode and bring the braising liquid to a simmer.

• Mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 1 tbsp water to form a slurry and stir it into the simmering liquid.

• Simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. Adjust seasoning with more salt or balsamic vinegar, if needed.

• Serve:

• Return the short ribs to the pot, spooning the thickened sauce over the ribs.

• Serve the ribs with mashed potatoes, mashed cauliflower, or roasted vegetables.

Notes:

• Cooking Time for Larger Ribs: If your short ribs are thicker or larger, increase the cooking time by 5-10 minutes.

• Substitutes for Bourbon: You can replace bourbon with red wine, coffee, or apple cider vinegar if you prefer.

• Resting the Ribs: For extra tenderness, chill the short ribs in the refrigerator overnight and remove the fat layer before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (per serving):

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Method: Pressure Cooking

Cuisine: American