Name: Melt-in-Your-Mouth Slow-Baked BBQ Short Rib Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 175 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds Boneless Beef Short Ribs (Can substitute with chuck roast.); 2 teaspoons Kosher Salt (Essential for enhancing flavor.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Provides depth and balance.); 1 cup Ketchup (Base for the barbecue sauce.); 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar (Adds sweetness and caramelizes.); 1/4 cup Cider Vinegar (Balances sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Worcestershire Sauce (Infuses umami flavor.); 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard (Adds tang.); 1 tablespoon Chili Powder (Adjust to taste.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Enhances savory notes.); 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (Optional for extra kick.)

The enticing scent of slow-baked BBQ short ribs wafts through my home, reminding me of cozy family gatherings and summer cookouts. This recipe turns boneless beef short ribs into a mouthwatering dish that’s not just for special occasions; it’s your new weeknight hero. With only 15 minutes of prep time, I can dive into my evening while the oven does all the work. Say goodbye to fast food, as this comforting meal promises to be a crowd-pleaser that brings everyone to the table—a hearty dinner that feels like a warm hug! So, are you ready to dive into the world of tender, savory ribs that will impress even your toughest critics? Let’s cook!

Why Choose Slow-Baked BBQ Short Ribs?

Comforting Flavor: The melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of these ribs, slathered in a rich BBQ sauce, tastes like a cozy family gathering.

Quick Prep Time: Just 15 minutes of hands-on prep means you can savor the evening while the oven does the heavy lifting.

Crowd-Pleaser: This hearty dish is sure to bring everyone to the table, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to substitute chuck roast or experiment with different BBQ sauces, customizing it to your family’s liking.

Don’t forget to serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes or warm cornbread for an unforgettable meal!

Slow-Baked BBQ Short Rib Ingredients

For the Ribs

Boneless Beef Short Ribs – The star of the dish, yielding melt-in-your-mouth results; can swap with chuck roast cut into similar sizes.
Kosher Salt – Essential for enhancing the rich flavor of the beef; don’t skip this step!
Black Pepper – Provides a subtle kick and depth, balancing the dish’s richness.

For the BBQ Sauce

Ketchup – Serves as the base for your barbecue sauce, imparting a delightful sweetness.
Dark Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps caramelize the sauce; light brown sugar works in a pinch for a milder flavor.
Cider Vinegar – Balances out the sweetness with acidity; crucial for depth of flavor in your slow-baked BBQ short rib sauce.
Worcestershire Sauce – Infuses umami and complexity that brings your ribs to life.
Dijon Mustard – Adds a subtle tang; you can interchange it with yellow mustard if you prefer.
Chili Powder – Contributes mild heat; adjust to taste or omit if you prefer milder flavors.
Garlic Powder – Enhances savory notes; feel free to use fresh garlic for a stronger flavor.
Cayenne Pepper – Optional for an extra kick; leave it out for a milder preparation.

This ingredient list makes preparing your slow-baked BBQ short ribs not just easy, but thrilling as you anticipate that comforting, savory aroma filling your home! Enjoy the journey of flavors!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Slow-Baked BBQ Short Rib

Step 1: Prepare the Ribs
Begin by preheating your oven to 300°F (150°C). Meanwhile, take your boneless beef short ribs and cut them into halves if they aren’t already. Generously season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper. Arrange the seasoned ribs in a 9×13-inch baking dish, ensuring they are neatly placed for even cooking, tempting you with their robust aroma.

Step 2: Make the BBQ Sauce
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the ketchup, dark brown sugar, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper until smooth. The mixture should have a rich, glossy texture that promises to elevate your slow-baked BBQ short ribs. Let the sauce sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing your final dish.

Step 3: Sauce the Meat
Pour approximately two-thirds of your prepared BBQ sauce over the arranged ribs, ensuring they’re well coated. Use a brush or spoon to spread the sauce evenly, allowing the smoky and sweet flavors to penetrate the meat. Reserve the remaining sauce for later; this will help enhance the dish when serving, ensuring your slow-baked BBQ short ribs are bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil, creating a seal to lock in moisture. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 2½ hours without peeking. The low heat will break down the meat fibers, resulting in irresistibly tender short ribs that will practically fall apart as they cook, filling your home with an enticing aroma.

Step 5: Finish Baking
After 2½ hours, carefully remove the foil to avoid steam burns. Gently drain some of the cooking liquid if needed, allowing the ribs to crisp up beautifully. Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes. This final phase will caramelize the sauce, giving your slow-baked BBQ short ribs a delectable, sticky glaze.

Step 6: Serve
Once the ribs are tender and the sauce is nicely caramelized, remove the baking dish from the oven. Transfer the delicious short ribs to a serving platter with care, brushing them generously with the reserved BBQ sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Your melt-in-your-mouth slow-baked BBQ short ribs are now ready to impress your family and friends at dinner!

Slow-Baked BBQ Short Rib Variations

Feel free to make this dish truly your own by adding your favorite twists and substitutions!

Alternate Protein: Substitute Chuck Roast for boneless short ribs for a budget-friendly version that still delivers on flavor and tenderness.
Sugar Swap: Use Light Brown Sugar instead of dark for a milder sweetness if you prefer a lighter touch in your sauce.
Vinegar Variations: Experiment with Apple Cider Vinegar or Balsamic Vinegar for a unique twist that adds different layers of flavor.
Heat Level Adjustments: For those who love a spicy kick, add Smoked Paprika or increase the Cayenne Pepper to suit your heat preference.
Mustard Alternatives: Swap Dijon Mustard with Spicy Brown Mustard for an extra zing that can’t be missed!
Herb Infusion: Mix in Fresh Herbs like rosemary or thyme into the sauce for a depth of flavor that transports you to a lovely herb garden.
BBQ Sauce Swap: Try using Hoisin Sauce for an Asian-inspired twist, giving your ribs a delightful sweetness paired with umami depth.
Add Umami: Stir in a splash of Soy Sauce for an extra savory note that enhances the overall richness of your dish.

These variations make it easy to adjust to your taste and keep every family dinner exciting! You can also serve your ribs with creamy mashed potatoes or hearty cornbread for that perfect comfort food combo! Enjoy your culinary adventure!

Expert Tips for Slow-Baked BBQ Short Ribs

Season Generously: Don’t skip the kosher salt! Proper seasoning is key to elevating the rich flavors of the short ribs.
Let the Sauce Rest: Allow the BBQ sauce to sit for a few minutes before using. This helps meld the flavors beautifully, enhancing your slow-baked BBQ short rib experience.
Keep the Oven Closed: Resist the urge to open the oven while cooking. Maintaining temperature is crucial for properly tenderizing the meat, ensuring those ribs stay juicy and flavorful.
Check Cooking Liquid: If you notice excess liquid while baking, gently drain some to help the ribs crisp up nicely during the final baking.
Rest Before Serving: Allow the ribs to sit for about 10 minutes after baking. This resting period helps redistribute the juices and enhances the texture, making each bite even better!

What to Serve with Effortless BBQ Boneless Short Ribs

Transform your comforting BBQ boneless short ribs into a complete feast that will delight every member of your family!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The smooth buttery texture compliments the tender short ribs perfectly, creating a blissful harmony on your plate.
Sweet Cornbread: Its slightly sweet, crumbly texture contrasts beautifully with the rich BBQ sauce, bringing a Southern touch to your meal.
Garlic Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The savory notes and slight crunch of these veggies add freshness, balancing out the ribs’ richness.
Balsamic Glazed Carrots: With their sweet-tart flavor, these vibrant carrots brighten up the plate and are a deliciously colorful addition.
Coleslaw: A crunchy, tangy slaw can cut through the savory richness of the ribs, providing a refreshing element that ties the meal together.
Old-Fashioned Potato Salad: Creamy and satisfying, this salad pairs well with the smoky flavors, enhancing the BBQ experience in every bite.
Iced Tea or Lemonade: A refreshing beverage like iced tea provides a perfect counterpoint to the hearty ribs, quenching your thirst and complementing the meal’s flavors.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your feast on a sweet note with gooey cookies, a delightful choice that brings nostalgia and warmth to your family gathering!

Storage Tips for Slow-Baked BBQ Short Ribs

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Make sure to label it, including the date.

Reheating: To enjoy succulent slow-baked BBQ short ribs again, reheat in the oven at 275°F (135°C) for about 30 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

Make Ahead Options

These slow-baked BBQ short ribs are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy evenings! You can season the boneless short ribs and prepare the BBQ sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them and refrigerate. For even longer storage, the prepared ribs can be frozen after baking, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal up to 3 months later. When you’re ready to serve, just thaw overnight in the fridge, reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warmed through, and finish with a glaze of the reserved BBQ sauce. This approach ensures your ribs maintain their juicy, flavorful appeal, just as delicious as fresh!

Slow-Baked BBQ Short Rib Recipe FAQs

What should I look for when selecting boneless short ribs?
Absolutely! When choosing boneless short ribs, look for meat that has a deep red color with good marbling. The marbling (the white streaks of fat) is essential for achieving that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Avoid any ribs that have dark spots or an unpleasant odor, as they may be past their prime.

How should I store leftover slow-baked BBQ short ribs?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain their tenderness and flavor. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing them.

Can I freeze slow-baked BBQ short ribs?
Yes, you can freeze your slow-baked BBQ short ribs! For optimal freshness, place them in a safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. Be sure to label the bag with the date to keep track of storage time. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating.

What can I do if my ribs are tough after baking?
Very! If your slow-baked BBQ short ribs turn out tough, it may be due to insufficient cooking time or the temperature being too low. To remedy this, cover the dish tightly with foil and return it to the oven at 300°F (150°C), baking for an additional hour. This will allow the collagen in the meat to break down further, making them fork-tender.

Are these ribs suitable for those with dietary restrictions or allergies?
For sure! If you’re looking for substitutions, be cautious with the Worcestershire sauce, as it can contain allergens. You may opt for a gluten-free version or simply skip it altogether if you need a clean recipe. Additionally, using Dijon mustard is fine, but if you have a mustard allergy, you can trade it out for a touch of honey or leave it out completely. It’s always wise to communicate any specific dietary needs when serving these delicious ribs!

How can I enhance the flavor of the BBQ sauce?
Certainly! A simple way to add depth to your BBQ sauce is to let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes after mixing, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. You might also consider adding a splash of liquid smoke for an extra smoky flavor, or even a tablespoon of apple cider to enhance the sweetness! The more the merrier when it comes to flavor-enhancing tricks!