Name: Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lb beef short ribs; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup beef broth; ½ cup red wine (optional); 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 bay leaf

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 26 reviews

If you’ve ever dreamed about sinking your fork into melt-in-your-mouth beef that tastes like it’s been slow-braised for hours, then you’re in for a serious treat with this Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe. It’s an incredible way to enjoy rich, tender short ribs cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time. The magic happens in the Instant Pot, locking in all those deep, savory flavors alongside a luscious sauce that will have you savoring every bite. Whether you’re making a comforting family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a guaranteed winner that feels fancy but comes together effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A collection of ingredients is arranged neatly on a white marbled surface, centered around a white plate holding six pieces of raw, red meat with fat layers. A small white bowl of soy sauce sits nearby, along with a larger clear measuring cup filled with a dark liquid and another clear measuring cup with a brown broth. Next to them are small white bowls containing diced orange carrots, chopped white onions, finely minced garlic, flour, chopped shallots, salt, black pepper, oil, and a small bowl with a thick brown sauce. A white plate with fresh green thyme sprigs completes the setup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the caramelized onions that bring sweetness to the fragrant herbs that add depth, each element is simple but essential.

3 lb beef short ribs: The star of the show, these meaty ribs provide rich flavor and tender texture.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Basic seasoning that enhances the natural flavor of the beef.
2 tbsp olive oil: Helps brown the ribs beautifully, adding a tasty caramelized crust.
1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and moisture, creating a flavorful base for the sauce.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic depth to the dish.
2 tbsp tomato paste: Contributes a subtle tang and rich color to the sauce.
1 cup beef broth: Provides the savory liquid needed to braise the ribs tenderly.
½ cup red wine (optional): Adds complexity and richness, enhancing the overall sauce.
1 tsp dried thyme: Brings earthy, herbal notes that pair perfectly with beef.
1 bay leaf: Provides subtle bitterness and brightness, rounding out the flavor.

How to Make Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe

Step 1: Season and Brown the Ribs

Begin by generously seasoning your beef short ribs with salt and black pepper. This simple step gets overlooked sometimes, but it’s key for building flavor. Set your Instant Pot to Sauté mode and heat the olive oil until shimmering. Brown the ribs on all sides in batches – this will create a beautiful crust that locks in juices and adds depth to the sauce. Once browned, set the ribs aside but don’t turn off the heat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, scraping up those tasty brown bits from the bottom. Add in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute to let the flavors meld and the tomato paste to caramelize just slightly.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Herbs

Pour in the beef broth and red wine, if using, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift the dormant flavors from the fond. Return the browned short ribs back into the pot. Sprinkle in dried thyme and tuck in your bay leaf to bring out that signature savory aroma you want in a comforting beef dish.

Step 4: Pressure Cook the Ribs

Seal the lid securely and set your Instant Pot to cook on High Pressure for 45 minutes. This step is where the magic happens – the ribs cook quickly but become fall-apart tender, infused with all of those incredible flavors from the broth and herbs.

Step 5: Release Pressure and Thicken Sauce

Allow the pressure to release naturally for 15 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure. Remove the ribs carefully (they will be tender!) and pop the pot back on Sauté mode to reduce the sauce until it thickens to your liking. This glossy sauce is fantastic spooned over the ribs, adding juicy richness to every bite.

How to Serve Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe

Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate this dish tremendously. Fresh chopped parsley or thyme sprinkled on the ribs adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. A few lemon zest shavings can also brighten the dish without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

Serve these luscious short ribs alongside creamy mashed potatoes, silky polenta, or fluffy steamed rice to soak up every drop of that savory sauce. Roasted vegetables or steamed greens balance the hearty ribs and add many layers of texture and nutrition to the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special touch, arrange the ribs over a bed of buttery mashed cauliflower or even creamy risotto for an indulgent dinner party. Alternatively, shred the leftover ribs to create gourmet sandwiches or tacos the next day, showcasing the versatility of this Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover short ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The rich flavors often deepen overnight, making your meal even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooked ribs and sauce in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags for up to 3 months. Be sure to label your containers with the date for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the ribs in a covered pan over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid high heat to keep the beef tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I skip the red wine in this Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe?

Absolutely! The red wine adds extra depth and richness but the dish is still fantastic without it. You can simply increase the beef broth by half a cup or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.

How do I know when the ribs are cooked perfectly?

The ribs are done when they are tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork. The pressure cooking time of 45 minutes in the Instant Pot is ideal, but if you notice they need a bit more time, you can always seal and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

While beef short ribs are best suited for their marbling and tenderness, you can experiment with chuck roast or beef brisket. Keep in mind that cooking times and texture will vary.

Should I brown the ribs before pressure cooking?

Yes! Browning the ribs is a crucial step for flavor. It creates a delicious crust and caramelizes the natural sugars, giving your sauce a richer taste and deeper color.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free beef broth and check your tomato paste label to be sure. It’s a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

If you love hearty, comforting meals that don’t keep you in the kitchen all day, this Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe is your new best friend. The joy of tender, flavorful ribs ready in just over an hour will have you reaching for the Instant Pot again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a dish that’s every bit as delicious as slow-braised but so much faster and easier to make. You deserve it!