Pressure Cooker Short Ribs

Welcome to the ultimate guide for crafting incredibly tender and flavorful Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs! This recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves rich, fall-off-the-bone beef but doesn’t have hours to spend simmering. Short ribs are a fantastic choice for a hearty meal; they’re surprisingly budget-friendly, incredibly versatile, and perfect for a variety of dietary needs, including low-carb options. Thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot, you can achieve that slow-cooked taste in a fraction of the time, making this a dish you’ll crave again and again.

Forget fussy techniques or a mountain of dishes. Our method for making Beef Short Ribs in the Instant Pot delivers maximum meaty flavor with minimal effort and cleanup. Prepare for a succulent, deeply satisfying meal that tastes like it was prepared all day, but comes together effortlessly.

At Sweet C’s, we believe that cooking should be an empowering experience, even for the most beginner home cook. That’s why we pack our recipes with detailed tips and explanations – because understanding *why* a recipe works, and the role each ingredient plays, builds confidence in the kitchen. My goal is to equip you with the knowledge to not just follow a recipe, but to truly master it.

Why Instant Pot Short Ribs Are a Game-Changer

If you’ve ever dreamt of serving succulent, melt-in-your-mouth beef short ribs but dreaded the hours of traditional braising, the Instant Pot is your new best friend. This recipe transforms a labor-intensive dish into an incredibly easy weeknight meal or a show-stopping dinner for guests. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but refuse to compromise on flavor. The result is a spicy, rich, and utterly delicious meal that tastes like it simmered all day, but is ready in a fraction of the time. Plus, it’s easily adaptable – you can customize the spice level and flavor profile to perfectly match your preferences with simple adjustments to herbs and spices.

The Secret to Perfect Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs

Creating truly exceptional Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs hinges on a few key elements: selecting the right cut of meat, balancing your flavors, and mastering the pressure cooking process. We’ll guide you through each step to ensure your short ribs are fork-tender and bursting with savory goodness.

Essential Ingredients for Flavorful Short Ribs

Making delicious beef short ribs is straightforward, requiring a simple process and accessible ingredients that pack a punch.

To create this mouthwatering recipe, you’ll need the following:

• Beef Short Ribs: Often cut from the plate or chuck primal, short ribs are known for their rich, beefy flavor and excellent marbling. Unlike spare ribs, they offer a more substantial meat-to-bone ratio, making them ideal for a wide range of recipes. Their connective tissue and fat render beautifully with slow cooking, yielding incredibly tender results. For this recipe, look for bone-in, English-cut short ribs for the best flavor and texture.
• Onion: A foundational ingredient in many braised dishes, onion not only adds a sweet and savory depth to the sauce but also contains enzymes that naturally help tenderize the beef as it cooks. It creates a robust base that complements the richness of the short ribs.
• Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic is indispensable for its pungent, aromatic qualities. Like onion, garlic contributes to meat tenderization and builds a complex flavor profile, adding savory notes with a subtle warmth that is distinct from onion’s sweetness.
• Red Enchilada Sauce: This vibrant sauce, typically a blend of red chilies, vinegar, onions, garlic, and spices, is key to both tenderizing and infusing the beef with a deep, smoky, and slightly tangy flavor. It acts as a flavorful braising liquid that penetrates the meat.
• Chipotle Chili Powder: Made from smoked and dried jalapeño peppers, chipotle chili powder introduces a distinctive smoky, earthy, and moderately spicy kick. It elevates the sauce, providing a warm heat that perfectly balances the richness of the beef without overwhelming it.
• Garlic Powder: While fresh garlic provides a sharp, fresh flavor, garlic powder offers a more concentrated, savory, and less vegetal aroma. It blends seamlessly into the braising liquid, enhancing the overall garlic essence and adding a subtle background heat that deepens the dish’s complexity.
• Beer (or Beef Stock): Pressure cookers require a specific amount of liquid to reach and maintain pressure. While water would suffice, using a can of amber beer or an equal amount of high-quality beef stock dramatically enhances the flavor. Beer adds a malty, slightly sweet, and complex note that complements beef exceptionally well, while beef stock provides a rich, umami depth. Choose a beer you enjoy drinking for the best results, or opt for a good quality, low-sodium beef stock.
• Avocado Oil: With a high smoke point and neutral flavor, avocado oil is perfect for searing meats and vegetables. It allows the short ribs to develop a beautiful, deep brown crust without burning, locking in juices and building foundational flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for any savory dish. Use a good quality sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper to bring out the natural flavors of the beef and enhance the entire dish. Proper seasoning is crucial for a truly delicious outcome.

Step-by-Step Guide to Instant Pot Short Ribs

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, follow these simple steps to prepare your succulent Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs:

Prepare the Ribs

Bring beef to room temperature: For optimal cooking, remove your beef short ribs from the refrigerator approximately 30 minutes before you plan to cook them. This allows the meat to cook more evenly and prevents it from seizing up when it hits the hot pot.

Pat dry and season generously: Using paper towels, thoroughly pat the short ribs dry on all sides. This crucial step ensures a proper sear. Once dry, season the beef liberally with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; these large cuts of meat can handle a good amount of salt.

Brown the Short Ribs

Add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function (set to high, if adjustable). Allow the oil to heat until it shimmers and is very hot – you can test by flicking a few drops of water into the pot; if it sizzles vigorously, it’s ready. Carefully place the seasoned short ribs into the hot pot, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Work in batches if necessary. Sear on all sides for about 3-5 minutes per side, until a rich, golden-brown crust forms. This browning step, known as the Maillard reaction, is essential for developing deep, complex flavors.

Sauté Aromatics & Build Flavor

Once the ribs are beautifully browned, remove them from the Instant Pot and set aside. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic cloves to the pot, scraping up any delicious browned bits from the bottom. Sauté until the onions are softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and the entire can of red enchilada sauce. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and their aromas to intensify.

Pressure Cook to Perfection

Return the browned short ribs to the Instant Pot. Pour in the amber beer (or beef stock) until the liquid almost covers the meat, ensuring it doesn’t exceed the max fill line. Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring the sealing ring is properly in place. Set the steam release valve to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Pressure Cook” or “Manual” function and set the cooking time to 50 minutes on high pressure. Press “Start.”

Natural Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 15 minutes. This natural release process is crucial for incredibly tender meat, allowing the internal temperature to gradually decrease and the juices to redistribute. After 15 minutes, carefully switch the steam release valve to “Venting” to release any remaining pressure. Stand clear of the valve to avoid steam burns.

Shred and Enjoy!

Once the pressure has fully released, carefully open the lid. Remove the incredibly tender short ribs from the pot and transfer them to a cutting board. The bones should practically slide right out. Using two forks, shred the succulent beef into desired pieces. While you’re shredding the meat, switch the Instant Pot back to the “Sauté” function and bring the remaining cooking liquid to a gentle boil. Allow it to simmer and reduce for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a rich, luscious pan sauce. This concentrated sauce will be bursting with flavor, perfect for drizzling over your shredded short ribs and accompanying dishes. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, and a generous drizzle of the reduced sauce. Enjoy!

Expert Tips for Instant Pot Short Ribs

Achieving perfectly tender and flavorful Instant Pot Short Ribs is simple with a few insider tips:

• Don’t Skimp on Salt: You are cooking substantial pieces of meat, and the recipe includes a fair amount of liquid and other unseasoned ingredients. It’s crucial to season your short ribs more generously than you might think necessary before searing. This heavy seasoning creates a flavorful crust and ensures the seasoning penetrates the thick cuts of beef, leading to a perfectly balanced dish.
• Avoid Crowding the Pot During Searing: When browning the short ribs, it’s essential to give each piece ample space in the Instant Pot. If you overcrowd the pot, the meat will steam rather than sear, resulting in a less desirable grey color and underdeveloped flavor. Sear in batches if needed, ensuring a beautiful, deep brown crust on all sides – this is fundamental for building flavor.
• Amp Up the Heat (If You Dare!): For those who crave an extra kick, feel free to increase the spice level. Add another tablespoon of chipotle chili powder for a bolder smoky heat. If you’re feeling adventurous and want to truly elevate the spice, consider adding half a can of chipotles in adobo sauce. This will introduce intense heat and a rich, smoky depth that will make your short ribs unforgettable.
• Embrace Pressure Cooking: Don’t be intimidated by modern pressure cookers like the Instant Pot or Ninja Foodi. They are incredibly safe and user-friendly. Simply follow the instructions carefully, and you’ll be rewarded with dishes that taste like they’ve been slow-cooked for hours, but come together rapidly.
• Searing is Non-Negotiable: As mentioned, searing the short ribs before pressure cooking is a vital step. It locks in juices, creates a delicious caramelized crust, and adds layers of rich flavor that permeate the entire dish. Never skip this step!
• Ensure Fall-Off-The-Bone Tenderness: The key to irresistibly tender short ribs that practically melt in your mouth is allowing for a natural pressure release. This gradual release of pressure ensures the meat remains juicy and tender, preventing it from drying out. Avoid a quick release unless specified, as it can result in tougher meat.
• Consider a Sweet Counterbalance: While this recipe leans savory and spicy, a touch of sweetness can beautifully balance the flavors. A tablespoon of brown sugar or a drizzle of honey added to the braising liquid can enhance the richness of the beef and provide a wonderful complexity, rounding out the heat from the chipotle.
• Make Ahead & Freeze: Instant Pot short ribs are fantastic for meal prep! Once cooked and shredded, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the Instant Pot on “Sauté” mode with a splash of broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to Serve With Your Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs

These versatile Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are a phenomenal main course that pairs beautifully with a wide array of side dishes. Their rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavor profile makes them incredibly adaptable. Get creative with your pairings!

• For Mexican-Inspired Meals: Shred the meat and use it in tacos, burritos, or quesadillas. Top with fresh cilantro, diced red onion, a dollop of sour cream, or a generous scoop of homemade guacamole to balance the spice. They also make an incredible filling for enchiladas or a hearty addition to loaded nachos.
• Comfort Food Classics: Serve the short ribs whole or shredded alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf, allowing the rich pan sauce to seep into every bite. Baked potatoes are another excellent choice, providing a comforting base for the flavorful beef.
• Lighter Side Options: For a fresher contrast, pair the short ribs with a vibrant cilantro lime rice, sautéed shishito peppers, or a crisp green salad.
• Beverage Pairings: Complement the robust flavors with a zesty citrus margarita or a refreshing paloma.
• Leftover Creativity: If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, the shredded beef is fantastic in a variety of dishes. Try incorporating it into loaded nacho fries, as a filling for hearty sandwiches, or even as a flavorful substitute for chicken in an easy enchilada pie bake.

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Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs: A Flavorful Journey

By: Courtney O’Dell

Yields: 6 servings

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

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Rich, hearty, spicy, and incredibly tender beef short ribs, cooked to perfection in just over an hour in your pressure cooker.

Equipment

• Ninja FD401 Foodi 12-in-1 Deluxe XL 8 qt. Pressure Cooker & Air Fryer
• Instant Pot Duo Crisp 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker and Air Fryer Combo
• Las Palmas Red Enchilada Sauce, Medium, 19 oz

Ingredients

• 3 pounds beef short ribs
• ½ large white onion, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 15 oz can red enchilada sauce
• 2 tablespoons chipotle chili powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 can amber beer, or 1 cup beef stock
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Pat meat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This is crucial for achieving a proper sear and allows seasonings to adhere effectively.
• Once dry, generously season the beef short ribs on all sides with salt and pepper.
• Add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil to the Instant Pot and select the “Sauté” function (set to high). Heat until the oil is shimmering and very hot.
• Carefully place the seasoned short ribs into the hot pot, ensuring there’s space between each piece to prevent steaming. Sear on all sides for 3-5 minutes per side until a deep golden-brown crust forms. Remove browned ribs and set aside.
• Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the Instant Pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Stir in chipotle chili powder, garlic powder, and red enchilada sauce. Cook for 1 minute.
• Return the browned short ribs to the pot. Pour in the amber beer (or beef stock) until the liquid reaches just below the top of the meat.
• Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the steam release valve to “Sealing.” Select “Pressure Cook” (or “Manual”) on high pressure and set the timer for 50 minutes.
• Once cooking is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 15 minutes. Then, carefully switch the valve to “Venting” to quick release any remaining pressure. Stand clear of the valve.
• Open the lid and remove the tender short ribs. The bones should be easy to remove. Transfer the meat to a cutting board.
• While you shred the meat using two forks, set the Instant Pot back to “Sauté” (High heat) to reduce the remaining cooking liquid.
• Simmer the liquid, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes, or until it has thickened into a rich pan sauce.
• Serve the shredded beef with the delicious reduced sauce drizzled over top and your favorite side dishes. Enjoy!

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1g


Calories: 799kcal


Carbohydrates: 15g


Protein: 60g


Fat: 54g


Saturated Fat: 23g


Polyunsaturated Fat: 30g


Trans Fat: 3g


Cholesterol: 227mg


Sodium: 832mg


Fiber: 3g


Sugar: 8g

Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.

Additional Info

Course: Main Dishes

Cuisine: American

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