Beef Short Ribs Recipe Oven: Easy & Delicious

by | Aug 16, 2024 | Beef Recipes

Ever wondered how to make tough beef short ribs tender and delicious? The key is in the oven-baked method. This beef short ribs recipe oven makes the meat tender and full of flavor. It’s sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Oven-baked short ribs are easy and delicious to make at home. Cook them low and slow at 275°F for 3 ½ to 4 hours. This method is perfect for both experts and beginners in the kitchen.

Our recipe is simple yet effective. Season the ribs with salt and pepper. Then, place them in a baking dish, bone-side down. Cover them with foil to keep the moisture in. This method works great for both bone-in and boneless ribs. You can also add BBQ sauce and broil for a crispy finish.

Key Takeaways

  • Cook beef short ribs at 275°F for 3 ½ to 4 hours for optimal tenderness
  • Use a tight aluminum foil cover to trap moisture during cooking
  • This recipe works for both bone-in and boneless short ribs
  • Low and slow cooking is crucial for achieving fall-off-the-bone texture
  • Optional BBQ sauce and broiling step for added flavor and caramelization

Introduction to Oven-Baked Beef Short Ribs

Oven-baked beef short ribs are a treat that’s hard to beat. They turn into tender, flavorful bites that easily fall off the bone. Unlike a beef rib roast, short ribs need patience and low heat to get that perfect tenderness.

This dish is simple yet packed with rich flavors. You only need 4 whole beef short ribs, seasoned with spices, and cooked in red wine and beef broth. It takes about 2 hours in the oven to cook them slowly.

If you prefer not to watch over the pot, you can use a slow cooker. It takes 5-6 hours to get the same tender ribs. The secret to great short ribs is choosing bone-in cuts and searing them before slow cooking.

Ingredient Quantity
Beef Short Ribs 4 whole
Red Wine 3 cups
Avocado Oil 2 tablespoons
Unsalted Butter 2 tablespoons

The end result is juicy, flavorful ribs that are even tender than brisket or chuck. As they cook, the ribs shrink by about 30%, making their flavors even richer. Serve them with homemade BBQ sauce and your favorite sides for a meal you won’t forget.

What Are Beef Short Ribs?

Beef short ribs are a tasty meat cut great for slow oven cooking. They come from the beef chuck area, close to the breastbone. Known for their rich flavor and tender texture when cooked correctly.

Anatomy of Short Ribs

Beef chuck short ribs are shorter than other types. They have a thick meat layer on the bone. This meat is marbled with fat, making it juicy when cooked slowly.

Beef chuck short ribs anatomy

Difference Between Short Ribs and Back Ribs

Short ribs and back ribs are different. Back ribs are longer and have meat between the bones. Short ribs have more meat on top of the bones. Both need slow cooking, but short ribs often become more tender.

Why Short Ribs are Perfect for Oven Cooking

Short ribs are great for oven cooking because they need time to get tender. The oven’s steady heat slowly breaks down the meat’s tough fibers. This makes the ribs fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor.

Cooking Method Time Servings Calories per Serving
Oven-Baked 2 hours 30 minutes 4 364

When cooked right, beef short ribs get great reviews. A popular oven-baked recipe scored 4.99 out of 5 from 2,691 votes. It serves 4 people and takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes to prepare and cook.

Selecting the Best Beef Short Ribs

Choosing the right beef short ribs is crucial for a tasty oven-baked meal. Look for cuts with a good mix of meat and fat. The meat should be bright red and have a mild, clean smell.

Short ribs are from the lower part of the cow’s rib cage. They can come from the chuck, rib, brisket, or plate. Ideal short ribs are 3-4 inches long and cut parallel to the bone. Bone-in ribs taste better, but boneless ones work great too.

A typical recipe serves 4-6 people. Remember, it has a lot of nutrients per serving:

Nutrient Amount % Daily Value
Calories 1412
Fat 130.6g 201.0%
Saturated Fat 54.3g 271.4%
Carbs 6.6g 2.2%
Protein 49.9g 99.9%

Braised short ribs are simple to prepare and almost impossible to mess up. For a tasty twist, try a beef tips and noodles recipe. Whether you pick bone-in or boneless ribs, you’re in for a delicious meal.

Essential Ingredients for Oven-Baked Short Ribs

Starting with the right ingredients is crucial for perfect oven-baked short ribs. The secret to tender, flavorful braised beef short ribs is in the meat quality and seasoning blend. Let’s dive into the must-haves for this tasty dish.

Meat Selection

For a great oven-baked short ribs recipe, pick about 3 lbs of meaty beef ribs. Choose ribs with good marbling for a rich flavor and tender texture. Fans of beef tenderloin roast will notice the similar quality focus in short ribs.

Seasonings and Spices

A key part of tasty short ribs is a flavorful dry rub. Combine these spices:

  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Cajun seasoning
  • Dark brown sugar
  • Chili powder
  • Salt
  • Paprika
  • Oregano

Marinate the seasoned ribs in the fridge for 1-2 hours for extra flavor. This step boosts the taste, much like making smoked beef ribs.

Liquid Components

For tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, use these liquids:

Ingredient Purpose Amount
Beef broth Adds depth and moisture 1 cup
Sweet Baby Ray’s BBQ Sauce Provides sweet and tangy flavor Few tablespoons
Liquid smoke (optional) Imparts smoky flavor To taste

The right mix of ingredients makes for succulent, flavorful oven-baked short ribs. They’re as good as any smoked beef ribs or braised beef short ribs.

Essential ingredients for oven-baked short ribs

Preparing Your Beef Short Ribs for Oven Cooking

Getting your beef short ribs ready for the oven is key to a tasty meal. Start by picking about one pound of boneless short ribs per person. Remember, they will shrink a bit when cooked. For a family of four, go for 3 pounds of bone-in beef short ribs.

Season the ribs well with salt and pepper first. You might also use a jerk or Cajun seasoning blend for extra flavor. If you like a little spice, add some cayenne pepper too.

Then, heat olive oil and butter in a big skillet. Brown the ribs for about 5 minutes on each side. This step is important as it makes a tasty crust on the meat before slow cooking. It also seals in the juices, keeping your ribs tender and juicy.

Adding shallots and fresh garlic can deepen the flavor. These go well with the beef’s rich taste. If you’re making your own BBQ sauce, now’s the time. A good sauce might have ketchup, dark brown sugar, cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, and garlic powder.

Ingredient Quantity Purpose
Beef short ribs 3 pounds Main ingredient
Salt and pepper To taste Basic seasoning
Olive oil and butter For browning To create crust
Shallots and garlic To taste For added flavor

Now that you’ve prepped your beef short ribs, they’re ready for the oven. This prep takes about 15 minutes. It sets the stage for a slow cook that makes tender, flavorful ribs.

Beef Short Ribs Recipe Oven: Step-by-Step Guide

Beef short ribs recipe oven

Get ready to make delicious slow-cooked beef ribs in your oven. This recipe makes the meat tender and full of flavor. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests. These oven-baked barbecue beef ribs will quickly become a favorite.

First, preheat your oven to 325°F. Season the ribs with kosher salt and black pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil and brown the ribs for 4-5 minutes on each side. This step makes the ribs flavorful and gives them a nice crust.

Then, add onions, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Pour in 3 cups of dry red wine and enough beef stock to cover the ribs. Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon are good choices. Add some fresh rosemary for more flavor.

Cover the pot and put it in the oven. Let it cook for about 2.5 hours. The low heat will make the tough meat tender and delicious.

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F
  2. Season ribs with salt and pepper
  3. Brown ribs in olive oil
  4. Add vegetables, wine, and stock
  5. Cook covered for 2.5 hours
  6. Rest for 20 minutes before serving

After cooking, let the ribs rest for 20 minutes. This lets the juices spread, making every bite full of flavor. Serve with crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

The Perfect Oven Temperature for Beef Short Ribs

Learning how to cook beef short ribs in the oven is key. The secret is to cook them low and slow. This method makes the meat tender and full of flavor.

Low and Slow Cooking Method

For the best slow-cooked beef ribs, use an oven at 275°F. This temperature helps break down tough tissues, making the meat juicy. Cook the ribs for 3 ½ to 4 hours. Check on them after 3 hours and then every 20-30 minutes.

Temperature Adjustments for Different Oven Types

Not all ovens are the same, so you might need to adjust the temperature. If you’re short on time, try cooking at 325°F for less time. Always aim for an internal temperature of 190°F for perfectly cooked ribs.

For those looking for other cooking methods, slow cooker beef tips are a great choice. They also result in tender meat dishes.

Cooking Method Temperature Cooking Time
Low and Slow Oven 275°F 3 ½ – 4 hours
Standard Oven 325°F 3 – 4 hours
Crockpot Low Setting 6 – 8 hours
Instant Pot High Pressure 45 minutes

Cooking Time: How Long to Bake Beef Short Ribs

Mastering the art of oven-baked short ribs takes patience and precision. The cooking time depends on your method and temperature. Let’s look at the best times for tender braised beef short ribs.

For tender oven-baked short ribs, go for low and slow. Set your oven to 275°F (135°C) and get ready for a 3 ½ to 4-hour cook. This method makes the meat tender, reaching an internal temperature of 200-205°F.

If you’re in a hurry, try a quicker method. Cooking at 350°F with some liquid cuts the time to about 2 hours. But, watch the meat closely to avoid overcooking.

Cooking Method Oven Temperature Cooking Time Internal Temperature
Low and Slow 275°F (135°C) 3 ½ – 4 hours 200-205°F
Quick Method 350°F (175°C) 2 hours 160°F (well-done)

The secret to perfect short ribs is in the look and feel. When the meat easily comes off the bone and feels tender with a fork, they’re done. Always check with a meat thermometer for safety and doneness.

Basting and Glazing Techniques

Basting and glazing are crucial for making delicious barbecue beef ribs. These steps add flavor and give the ribs a caramelized look that’s hard to resist.

First, make your glaze. Combine 1 cup of ketchup, 2 tablespoons of molasses, 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar, and 2 teaspoons of Worcestershire sauce. This mix creates a rich, tangy taste that goes well with the beef.

After cooking the ribs for a bit, take them out of the oven. Brush them well with the glaze, making sure they’re evenly coated. Put the ribs back in the oven for 15 more minutes. This lets the sauce caramelize, making a sticky, tasty crust.

For an extra boost of flavor, add another layer of glaze right before serving. This step makes the ribs taste and look even better. Remember, baste the ribs every 30 minutes while they’re cooking to keep them moist and full of flavor.

Basting Frequency Glaze Application Final Cooking Time
Every 30 minutes 15 minutes before finish 5 minutes on grill

Using these basting and glazing methods, your beef short ribs will come out tender and full of flavor. The caramelized outside will impress everyone.

Adding Vegetables to Your Oven-Baked Short Ribs

Make your slow-cooked beef ribs even better by adding vegetables. This turns your beef rib roast into a full meal, full of flavor and nutrients. Let’s look at the best veggies to use and when to add them.

Complementary Vegetable Options

Choosing the right veggies can make your beef rib roast taste amazing. Here are some top picks:

  • Long carrots
  • Turnips
  • Red and golden beets
  • Onions
  • Celery
  • Garlic cloves

These veggies add flavor and different textures to your slow-cooked beef ribs.

When to Add Vegetables During Cooking

Adding veggies at the right time is key for the best results. Here’s what to do:

  1. Sauté onions and garlic before putting in the ribs and braising liquid.
  2. Add hard veggies like carrots, turnips, and beets for the last 35-40 minutes of cooking.
  3. Roast root veggies at 425°F for 35-40 minutes to get them crispy.
Vegetable When to Add Cooking Time
Onions & Garlic Before ribs Full cooking time
Carrots & Turnips Last 35-40 minutes 35-40 minutes
Beets Last 35-40 minutes 35-40 minutes

Follow these tips to make a dish where the veggies and beef ribs work together perfectly.

Checking for Doneness: Signs Your Short Ribs Are Ready

Learning when your oven-baked short ribs are done is key. Knowing the signs of doneness is crucial for a great dish. Let’s look at how to know when your ribs are ready to eat.

Here are the signs to watch for when cooking beef short ribs in the oven:

  • Meat pulling away from the bone
  • Fork-tender texture
  • Internal temperature of at least 190°F (88°C)
  • Caramelized crust on the surface
  • Slightly charred appearance

The bend test is a method pitmasters use for ribs. Hold a rib with tongs and bend it. If it bends and cracks with a bounce, it’s done. But remember, the meat should still offer some resistance when you eat it.

For sureness, use a meat thermometer with your eyes. The right internal temperature for oven-baked short ribs is 190-205°F (88-96°C). Start checking for doneness after about 3 hours if you’re cooking at a lower temperature.

Doneness Level Internal Temperature Texture
Rare 125-130°F (52-54°C) Tough, chewy
Medium 140-150°F (60-66°C) Firm, less tender
Well-done 165-175°F (74-79°C) Tender, but not ideal
Perfect 190-205°F (88-96°C) Fork-tender, optimal flavor

With practice, you’ll get the hang of cooking perfect oven-baked short ribs every time.

Resting and Serving Your Oven-Baked Beef Short Ribs

After cooking your braised beef short ribs, let them rest for 10-15 minutes. This helps the juices spread evenly, making each bite tender and full of flavor.

When you’re ready to serve, place your barbecue beef ribs on a plate with their cooking liquid or BBQ sauce. Add some fresh herbs on top for color and aroma.

  • Serve 2-3 ribs per person
  • Pair with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
  • Offer extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping

For those watching their intake, here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Nutrient Amount
Calories 366
Protein 38g
Saturated Fat 10g
Carbohydrates 4g
Sugar 3g

These oven-baked short ribs are more than just a meal; they’re an experience. Enjoy every bite and the rich flavors you’ve made.

Sauce and Gravy Preparation from Drippings

After slow-cooking your beef short ribs in the oven, don’t waste those tasty drippings. Turn them into a rich sauce or gravy to make your dish even better. Start by straining the cooking liquid to remove solids. Then, skim off about a cup of excess fat from the top, leaving the rich flavors behind.

To make a delicious gravy, melt 1/4 cup of butter in a saucepan. Mix in 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to make a roux. Slowly add 1 1/2 quarts of vegetable stock and the strained cooking liquid, stirring constantly. For more flavor, add 4 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce.

Add 1 1/2 cups each of thickly sliced shallots and onion halves to your sauce. For something different, pour in a 12-ounce bottle of dark ale or stout beer. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens to your liking. This rich gravy is perfect with the tender meat from your beef short ribs recipe oven. Serve it over creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

FAQ

What are the essential ingredients for oven-baked beef short ribs?

You’ll need beef short ribs, salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce. Add cumin, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and dried herbs for extra taste. Use stout beer and beef stock for braising.

How do I prepare beef short ribs for oven cooking?

Start by seasoning the ribs with salt and pepper. Some recipes suggest coating the ribs in flour. Then, brown them in olive oil and butter for 5 minutes on each side. This step adds flavor and creates a crust.

What is the best oven temperature and cooking time for beef short ribs?

Use 275°F for slow cooking. This temperature helps break down connective tissues, making the meat tender. Cook for 3 ½ – 4 hours at this temperature. Some recipes suggest 350°F for about 2 hours.

How do I know when the beef short ribs are done?

Check if the meat is pulling away from the bone and is fork-tender. It should have an internal temperature of at least 190°F. The meat should be easy to pierce with a fork and almost fall off the bone.

How can I add extra flavor to oven-baked beef short ribs?

Baste and glaze the ribs with BBQ sauce for extra flavor. After cooking, brush with BBQ sauce and bake or broil for 15 minutes. This caramelizes the sauce on the outside.

Can I add vegetables to oven-baked short ribs?

Yes, add onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes for a full meal. Sauté onions and garlic first, then add the ribs and braising liquid. Add firmer vegetables for the last 30-45 minutes of cooking.

How do I make a sauce or gravy from the drippings?

Start by straining the cooking liquid to remove solids and skimming off fat. Simmer the remaining liquid to reduce and intensify flavors. For a thicker gravy, mix butter and flour to make a roux. Then, whisk in the strained and reduced cooking liquid.