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Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe


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3.9 from 27 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 4 hours 10 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

This Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs recipe delivers tender, flavorful beef short ribs coated in a rich cola barbecue sauce. Slow-braised in the oven until meltingly tender with a slightly crisp top, these ribs are perfect for a comforting meal served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, cornbread, or coleslaw.


Ingredients

Scale

Cola BBQ Sauce

  • 1 batch Cola BBQ Sauce (prepared separately)

Short Ribs

  • 4 lbs boneless beef short ribs, cut into 3-inch pieces
  • Kosher salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 23 tablespoons avocado oil (or vegetable/canola oil), as needed

Instructions

  1. Prep BBQ Sauce: Make the Cola BBQ sauce according to your preferred recipe and set it aside to cool before using.
  2. Season and Rest Ribs: Generously season the boneless beef short ribs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow them to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to enhance seasoning absorption.
  3. Sear Ribs: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs in batches until they are deeply browned on all sides, which helps to develop flavor. Transfer the seared ribs to an oven-safe baking dish.
  4. Braise Short Ribs: Pour the cooled cola barbecue sauce over the ribs, making sure they are well coated. Cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture and braise the ribs in the oven for 3 hours, or until the meat is meltingly tender.
  5. Finish Cooking: Remove the foil and continue cooking the ribs for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the top of the ribs to become slightly crisp and beautifully browned.
  6. Serve: Serve the BBQ short ribs immediately with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, cornbread, or coleslaw. They also make a delicious filling for sandwiches between two pieces of bread.

Notes

  • For best results, allow the ribs to rest at room temperature before searing to ensure even cooking.
  • Searing the ribs well before braising locks in flavor and improves texture.
  • Covering with foil during braising helps keep the ribs moist and tender.
  • After braising, removing the foil and roasting helps develop a nice crust on top.
  • This recipe pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like coleslaw and cornbread.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerate for up to 3 days and reheated gently to preserve texture.
  • Prep Time: 40 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American