If you’re craving tender, flavorful meat that practically falls off the bone in a fraction of the traditional cooking time, this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe is a total game changer. With a perfectly balanced spice rub, a rich blend of barbecue sauce and beef broth, and the convenience of pressure cooking, these ribs come out juicy and packed with smoky, savory goodness. Trust me, once you try this method, your stove or grill might just become a backup option for ribs forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe combines a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role in creating the rich depth of flavor, beautiful color, and tender texture you want from perfectly cooked beef ribs. Think of these ingredients as your flavor squad, all working together to elevate your meal.
- 3 pounds beef short ribs: Choose bone-in for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: This helps sear the ribs to lock in flavors and create a delicious crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors and helps tenderize the meat.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick and depth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a warm, savory aroma that everyone loves.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mellow sweetness and rounds out the spice rub.
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder: Gives just a hint of heat and complexity.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the ribs moist and infuses a rich meaty flavor during pressure cooking.
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving): Essential for that tangy, sticky finish that ribs are known for.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami depth and a touch of acidity.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar: Balances the richness with a mild tang and tenderizes the meat.
How to Make Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Spice Rub
First, mix together salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder in a small bowl. This simple spice rub gives the beef ribs their signature flavor, creating a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly spicy notes. Rub this mixture evenly all over the ribs, making sure every inch is coated for maximum flavor penetration.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs
Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and add the olive oil. Once it’s hot and shimmering, carefully sear the ribs in batches for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden-brown crust. This caramelization step not only locks in juices but also adds layers of flavor that you can taste in every bite. Remove the ribs and set them aside.
Step 3: Create the Cooking Liquid
To the pot, add the beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Give it a good stir, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom — this deglazing step infuses the liquid with all those concentrated flavors from searing. That rich cooking liquid is what will keep your ribs moist and luscious while pressure cooking.
Step 4: Pressure Cook the Ribs
Return the seared ribs to the Instant Pot, stacking them if needed to fit. Close the lid securely and set the valve to sealing. Choose Pressure Cook (Manual) on High and set the timer for 45 minutes. This pressure cooking stage transforms the ribs into tender, fall-apart meat in less than an hour — a serious time saver compared to slow roasting or smoking.
Step 5: Release and Finish
Once the cooking cycle completes, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes to keep the meat juicy. Then carefully do a quick release of any remaining pressure. Remove the ribs from the pot and brush them generously with extra barbecue sauce for that sticky, finger-licking finish. If you want a caramelized exterior, pop the ribs under a broiler for 3 to 5 minutes. Serve immediately while the ribs are hot and irresistible.
How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a vibrant pop of color and a fresh bite that contrasts beautifully with the smoky richness of the ribs. If you like a touch of heat, a few thin slices of fresh jalapeño are fantastic, too. Don’t underestimate the power of simple garnishes to elevate presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
These beef ribs pair wonderfully with classic comfort sides. Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery cornbread soak up the barbecue sauce beautifully, while a crisp coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch and acidity to balance the richness. For a healthier option, roasted veggies or a fresh green salad work just as well.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the ribs family-style on a large wooden platter piled high with your chosen sides and extra barbecue sauce in small bowls for dipping. You can also slice the ribs into smaller portions and create hearty sandwiches with pickles and fresh slaw for a fun twist on a barbecue classic. The Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe is versatile and perfect for casual gatherings or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled to room temperature, store leftover ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Keeping the meat submerged in some of the cooking juices or extra barbecue sauce helps maintain moisture and flavor when reheated.
Freezing
You can freeze the ribs wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. It’s best to freeze them with some sauce to prevent drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat without drying out the meat, gently warm the ribs in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, use a low setting in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or sauce and covering the plate to keep moisture locked in.
FAQs
Can I use boneless beef ribs for this recipe?
Yes! While bone-in short ribs offer more flavor and juiciness, boneless ribs can work well too. Just adjust the cooking time slightly since boneless ribs may cook a bit faster and you want to prevent overcooking.
What if I don’t have barbecue sauce on hand?
If you’re out of barbecue sauce, you can make a quick substitute by mixing ketchup, a splash of apple cider vinegar, honey, smoked paprika, and Worcestershire sauce. It won’t be quite the same but still delicious and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! Add up to 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the spice rub for a nice heat boost. You can also serve the ribs with hot sauce on the side for those who like extra spice.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
When cooked in the Instant Pot following this recipe, the ribs become incredibly tender and should easily pull away from the bone with a fork. The pressure cooking ensures meat is cooked evenly and thoroughly in a fraction of the usual time.
Can I double the recipe to feed more people?
You can double the ingredients, but be mindful of your Instant Pot’s capacity. It’s best not to fill more than two-thirds full. You might need to cook in batches or use a larger pot for bigger quantities.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe enough if you want tender, richly flavored ribs without the hours of slow cooking or tricky grilling. It truly makes dinner feel special with minimal effort and maximum taste. Give it a try and prepare to impress everyone around your table with melt-in-your-mouth beef ribs that bring all the comfort and crave-worthy flavors you adore.
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Instant Pot Beef Ribs Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Instant Pot Beef Ribs recipe delivers tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs infused with a smoky, flavorful spice rub and rich barbecue sauce. The pressure cooking method ensures a juicy, succulent finish in a fraction of traditional cooking time, perfect for an easy yet impressive main course.
Ingredients
Beef Ribs
- 3 pounds beef short ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Spice Rub
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Cooking Liquids and Sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce (plus more for serving)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Prepare the spice rub: In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder. Mix thoroughly to create an even spice blend.
- Season the ribs: Rub the prepared spice mixture evenly over all sides of the beef short ribs, ensuring each piece is well coated to maximize flavor.
- Sear the ribs: Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear each side for 2 to 3 minutes until browned, developing a caramelized crust. Remove the ribs and set aside.
- Deglaze the pot: Add beef broth, barbecue sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar to the pot. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to incorporate rich flavors into the cooking liquid.
- Pressure cook the ribs: Return the seared ribs to the Instant Pot, stacking them as needed. Seal the lid securely. Select the Pressure Cook (Manual) setting on High pressure and set the timer for 45 minutes.
- Release pressure: After cooking completes, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes. Then perform a quick release to release any remaining pressure safely.
- Finish and serve: Carefully remove the ribs from the pot and brush generously with additional barbecue sauce. For an optional caramelized finish, place the ribs under a broiler for 3 to 5 minutes until slightly charred and sticky. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can use either bone-in or boneless short ribs as preferred.
- For extra spice, add 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the spice rub.
- These ribs pair wonderfully with classic sides such as mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or cornbread.
- Ensure the barbecue sauce and beef broth are gluten-free if cooking for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: American
