Boneless beef short ribs are a flavorful cut of meat prized for their rich marbling and melt-in-your-mouth texture when cooked low and slow. Originating from the chuck or plate section of the cow, these ribs are a favorite in both American comfort food and Korean BBQ traditions. Their succulent texture and deep, beefy flavor make them a show-stopping main course for family dinners or special occasions.
The boneless version is especially convenient—less mess, easier to serve, and just as delicious. Whether braised, baked, or pressure-cooked, this dish brings comfort and satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need for a classic oven-braised boneless beef short ribs recipe:
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2.5 to 3 lbs boneless beef short ribs
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 large onion, sliced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
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1/2 cup red wine (or extra broth)
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1/4 cup tomato paste
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and pepper to taste
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening sauce)
Substitutions:
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No wine? Use extra broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar.
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Low-carb? Skip the flour and tomato paste.
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Gluten-free? Ensure Worcestershire sauce and broth are GF-certified.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Preheat and Prep
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat the ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Sear the Ribs
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs in batches, about 2–3 minutes per side, until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add onions. Sauté for 5 minutes, then add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
4. Deglaze and Build Flavor
Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping the browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 3 minutes.
5. Add Liquids and Seasonings
Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, and a pinch more salt and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Braise
Return ribs to the pot, nestling them in the liquid. Cover and bake in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until fork-tender.
7. Optional – Thicken Sauce
Remove ribs, then simmer the sauce on the stovetop. Whisk in a flour slurry (2 tbsp flour + 2 tbsp water) and simmer until thickened.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use a Dutch oven or heavy oven-safe pot for even heat distribution.
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Brown the meat thoroughly—this builds a deep, savory flavor base.
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Don’t rush the braising process—low and slow ensures the ribs become tender and flavorful.
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Let the meat rest for 10 minutes after cooking to retain juices.
Variations and Customizations
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Korean-style: Marinate ribs in soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic before cooking.
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Slow cooker method: Cook on low for 7–8 hours instead of baking.
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Vegetarian version: Substitute with thick-cut portobello mushrooms and vegetable broth.
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Low-carb: Skip the flour and serve over cauliflower mash.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or buttered egg noodles.
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Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme for color.
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Pair with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a dark beer.
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Side ideas: roasted carrots, sautéed greens, crusty bread.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
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Calories: 520
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Protein: 38g
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Carbohydrates: 12g
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Fat: 35g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 3g
(May vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! It tastes even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Q: How do I reheat it?
Reheat gently in the oven at 300°F or on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth if needed.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely. Cool completely, freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use bone-in short ribs instead?
Yes, but increase cooking time by 30–45 minutes for optimal tenderness.
Closing Thoughts
Boneless beef short ribs are proof that comfort food can be elegant, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a cozy night in, this dish delivers richness and flavor in every bite. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your results or ask questions in the comments below!
