Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe

These Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs are the epitome of comfort food. Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef short ribs are braised in a flavorful Cola BBQ sauce, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly Tender: Slow cooking ensures the short ribs become incredibly tender and fall-off-the-bone delicious.
• Rich and Flavorful: The homemade Cola BBQ sauce adds a unique and irresistible sweetness and tang.
• Perfect for Gatherings: This recipe is ideal for feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy family dinner.

this Recipe

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs:

• Cola BBQ Sauce: 1 batch (click for full recipe), for a sweet and tangy sauce.
• Boneless beef short ribs: 4 lbs, cut into 3-inch pieces, for a rich and tender protein.
• Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper: To taste, to season the short ribs.
• Avocado oil (or vegetable/canola oil): 2–3 tablespoons, as needed, for searing the short ribs.

How to Make Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs

Step 1: Prep the BBQ Sauce

Make the Cola BBQ sauce as instructed in the recipe and set it aside to cool.

Step 2: Season & Rest the Short Ribs

On a large plate or platter, generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides. Set them aside to rest and come to room temperature for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).

Step 3: Brown the Short Ribs

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons of oil. When hot, swirl the skillet to coat the bottom. Add a few short ribs, in batches, and sear on all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the browned short ribs to a 9×13-inch oven-safe baking dish. Repeat until all short ribs are browned, adding more oil as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Braise

With all browned short ribs in the baking dish, pour the Cola BBQ sauce over them and toss to coat. Cover the dish tightly with foil.

Step 5: Slow Cook the Short Ribs

Braise the short ribs for 3 hours, covered, at 300°F (150°C), until meltingly tender. Remove the foil and cook for another 30 minutes until slightly crisp and brown on top.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the saucy BBQ short ribs immediately with mashed potatoes, cornbread, coleslaw, or between sandwich bread.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Resting the Meat: Allowing the short ribs to come to room temperature ensures even cooking.
• Searing for Flavor: Searing the short ribs creates a delicious crust and enhances the flavor.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Sear the short ribs in batches to ensure proper browning.

How to Serve

• Main Course: Serve as a hearty main course with your favorite sides.
• Sandwiches: Shred the short ribs and serve on buns for delicious BBQ sandwiches.
• Tacos or Sliders: Use the shredded short ribs as a filling for tacos or sliders.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

Reheat the short ribs in a saucepan over medium heat or in the oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different BBQ sauce?
Yes, you can use your favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce.

Can I cook these in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook these in a slow cooker. Brown the short ribs as directed, then transfer them to a slow cooker. Pour the BBQ sauce over them and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until tender.

Can I use bone-in short ribs?
Yes, you can use bone-in short ribs. They will require a slightly longer cooking time.

Can I freeze these short ribs?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked short ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Print