Ultimate Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs: Fall-Off-The-Bone Tender in Under an Hour

Prepare to discover your new favorite meal: Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs! This recipe transforms tough cuts into succulent, fall-off-the-bone tender meat, enveloped in your favorite BBQ spices and a rich, savory sauce. Thanks to the magic of the pressure cooker, these heavenly beef short ribs are ready in a fraction of the time compared to traditional methods, without sacrificing any of their deep, satisfying flavor. Say goodbye to long hours of simmering and hello to gourmet quality in under an hour!

No need for a full day of slow cooking when the Instant Pot comes to the rescue! These bone-in beef ribs boast an incredibly tender and flavorful profile that literally melts in your mouth with every bite. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through how to achieve this culinary masterpiece with minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, all prepared efficiently. This dish is perfect for impressing guests or simply treating your family to an unforgettable meal. While this dish is truly a treat, those following the WW program should note that one generous serving comes in at 29 points, making it a perfect indulgence for a special occasion or a weekend family dinner.

Recipe at a Glance

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes (pressure cooking)
• Steam Release Time: 10 minutes (natural release)
• Total Time: Approximately 60 minutes
• Servings: 4

Why These Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs are a Must-Make

If you’re searching for a show-stopping meal that’s surprisingly easy and quick to prepare, these Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs are the perfect answer. Here’s why they deserve a permanent spot in your recipe collection:

• Unbelievably Tender, Savory, and Flavorful: The high-pressure environment of the Instant Pot works wonders, efficiently breaking down the tough connective tissues inherent in short ribs. This results in meat that is exceptionally tender and juicy. The presence of the bone further enhances the rich, beefy flavor, while a generous BBQ spice rub and a luscious sauce create a complex, savory profile that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Melt-in-Your-Mouth Deliciousness: Experience beef ribs so succulent and soft they practically dissolve in your mouth. The precise cooking method ensures every single bite is moist, full-bodied, and bursting with flavor, leaving a lasting, delightful impression on everyone who tries them.
• Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Impact: You only need five core ingredients to create this gourmet-quality dish. This simplicity makes the recipe approachable for even novice cooks, proving that extraordinary flavor doesn’t require a long or complicated shopping list. It’s all about quality ingredients and the right cooking method.
• Ready in Under an Hour: Forget the traditional 3-4 hours typically needed for slow-braised short ribs. The Instant Pot dramatically cuts down the cooking time, allowing you to enjoy a luxurious, slow-cooked-tasting meal even on a busy weeknight. This efficiency makes gourmet dining accessible on any schedule.
• Easily Customizable Spices and Sauce: This recipe offers fantastic flexibility. Whether you prefer a sweet and smoky, spicy and savory, or tangy BBQ flavor profile, you have complete control. Simply choose your favorite high-quality spice rub and barbecue sauce to tailor the dish perfectly to your personal taste. This versatility means you can experiment and make it unique every time!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From a casual, comforting family dinner to a festive potluck or an elegant gathering, these short ribs are always a crowd-pleaser. Their impressive taste and tender texture make them feel incredibly indulgent, yet their preparation is simple enough for regular enjoyment, turning any meal into a special event.

Understanding Bone-In Beef Short Ribs

Beef short ribs are a highly prized cut of meat, celebrated for their exceptionally rich flavor and their potential for incredible tenderness when prepared correctly. They originate from the lower portion of the cow’s rib cage, specifically from the plate, brisket, or chuck sections, which are located closer to the animal’s belly. The “short” in their name refers to the relatively short length of the bone, not necessarily that they are small ribs. These cuts are typically thick, wonderfully meaty, and boast a good amount of connective tissue and marbling, all of which contribute significantly to their robust and delectable flavor.

Popular Cuts of Short Ribs: English Cut vs. Flanken Cut

While this recipe specifically utilizes bone-in short ribs, it’s beneficial to understand that there are two primary ways beef short ribs are typically cut:

• English Cut: This is the style predominantly used in our Instant Pot recipe. English-cut short ribs are usually cut parallel to the bone, resulting in a thick, substantial chunk of beef with a single, prominent bone in each piece. These cuts are absolutely perfect for slow-cooking methods like braising and pressure cooking, as they yield generous portions of fork-tender meat that easily pulls away from the bone.
• Flanken Cut: In contrast, Flanken-cut short ribs are sliced across the bones, creating thinner strips of meat that contain several small pieces of bone in each strip. Flanken cuts are a staple in Korean BBQ (often called Kalbi) and are excellent for quick cooking methods such as grilling or broiling due to their thinner profile and quick searing capabilities.

The bone-in aspect of these short ribs is not merely for aesthetics; it plays a crucial role in enhancing the flavor. As the meat cooks under pressure, the bone marrow slowly renders and infuses into the surrounding muscle tissue. This process adds an extra layer of depth, richness, and complex umami flavor that boneless cuts simply cannot replicate. This natural infusion of flavor from the bone is a significant part of what makes these ribs so incredibly delicious and sought after. Once cooked, these versatile ribs can be enjoyed as a standalone main course, paired with a wide array of complementary side dishes, or even incorporated into hearty stews, soups, and other slow-cooked culinary creations to elevate their overall flavor profile.

Essential Equipment for Perfect Instant Pot Short Ribs

Making these succulent short ribs requires minimal specialized equipment, but a few key items will ensure the best possible results and a smooth cooking process:

• 6+ Quart Instant Pot (or other brand of pressure cooker): A larger capacity pressure cooker is highly recommended for this recipe, especially when searing the ribs in batches. This ensures there’s ample space for even cooking and allows you to add sufficient liquid without overcrowding the pot. The Instant Pot is the cornerstone of this recipe, making quick work of a cut that typically demands hours of traditional cooking.
• Tongs: A sturdy pair of tongs is absolutely essential for safely and easily handling the hot meat during the searing process and for transferring the incredibly tender ribs once they are cooked. Long-handled tongs are particularly recommended for safety and comfort.
• A Trivet (typically included with most Instant Pots): This metal rack is used to keep the ribs elevated above the cooking liquid during the pressure cooking phase. This elevation allows the ribs to steam evenly under pressure while preventing them from scorching or sticking to the bottom of the pot, which can happen with direct contact.

Simple Ingredients for Remarkable Flavor

You’ll be amazed at the depth of flavor you can achieve with just a few, high-quality ingredients:

• 2 lbs Bone-In Beef Short Ribs: For the best results, opt for high-quality English-cut short ribs with good marbling throughout the meat. The intramuscular fat will render down, adding incredible moisture and flavor, while the bone contributes a profound richness. Ensure your ribs are completely thawed if they were previously frozen.
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil: Used for the crucial step of searing the ribs. Olive oil is an excellent choice for its pleasant flavor and its relatively high smoke point, which helps in developing a beautiful, golden-brown crust on the meat. Alternatively, vegetable oil or canola oil can also be used.
• 4 Tablespoons BBQ Spice Rub: This is where you can truly personalize your Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs! Choose your absolute favorite blend – whether you prefer a sweet and smoky, spicy and savory, or a classic all-purpose rub. Ensure it’s a good quality rub that complements the robust flavor of beef.
• 1 Cup Beef Broth: This is the essential liquid for pressure cooking. It generates the steam needed to tenderize the meat and forms a foundational layer of rich, beefy flavor for your sauce. Using a low-sodium beef broth is often preferred, especially if your chosen spice rub already contains a significant amount of salt, allowing you to better control the overall seasoning.
• Barbecue Sauce of Your Choice: The crowning glory of these ribs! Select a barbecue sauce that you genuinely love and that you feel will pair well with the specific flavors of your chosen spice rub. A thick, rich, and flavorful sauce works wonderfully to generously coat these tender, succulent ribs.

Optional Enhancements for Extra Depth:

• Aromatics: To add an extra layer of savory depth, consider sautéing diced onion, minced garlic, or even a few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme in the Instant Pot with the olive oil before adding the broth. These simple additions can significantly boost the overall flavor profile.
• Red Wine: For an even richer, more sophisticated flavor, you can substitute half of the beef broth with a dry red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot. The tannins and fruit notes in the wine will add complexity to the sauce.
• Liquid Smoke: If you desire a deeper smoky flavor without the need for a traditional smoker, a few drops of liquid smoke can be sparingly added to the beef broth. Use it cautiously, as a little goes a long way.

How to Make Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs (Step-by-Step Guide)

Follow these straightforward steps to create incredibly tender and flavorful short ribs in your Instant Pot, transforming a tough cut into a gourmet delight:

1. Prepare the Ribs for Seasoning: Begin by thoroughly patting the beef short ribs dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps to achieve a superior sear. Once dry, generously rub the short ribs on all sides with your chosen BBQ spice rub. Don’t be shy with the seasoning – a good rub forms the fundamental layer of flavor for your finished dish.
2. Preheat the Instant Pot: Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot and adjust it to the “More” or “High” setting if your model offers different heat levels. Allow the Instant Pot to fully preheat until it indicates “Hot” on the display, then add the olive oil.
3. Sear the Ribs for Flavor: Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the seasoned ribs into the Instant Pot in small batches. It’s vital not to overcrowd the pot, as this will cause the meat to steam rather than sear, preventing the formation of a delicious crust. Sear each side of the ribs for about 3-4 minutes, or until a beautiful golden-brown crust forms. This searing step is absolutely crucial for locking in juices and developing a rich, caramelized flavor.
4. Remove Meat and Deglaze: Once all the ribs are seared, remove them from the Instant Pot with tongs and set them aside on a clean plate. Pour the beef broth into the hot Instant Pot. Immediately use a wooden spoon or a heat-resistant spatula to scrape up any browned bits (known as “fond”) from the bottom of the pot. This deglazing step adds immense flavor to your cooking liquid and helps prevent the dreaded “Burn” error.
5. Set Up for Pressure Cooking: Carefully place the trivet (the metal rack that typically comes with your Instant Pot) inside the pot. This keeps the ribs slightly elevated from the cooking liquid, promoting even cooking. Gently place the seared meat on top of the trivet.
6. Begin Pressure Cooking: Secure the lid on your Instant Pot, ensuring that the sealing ring is properly in place and the steam release valve is set to the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting, then set the cooking time to 50 minutes on high pressure.
7. Allow Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10-15 minutes. This slow, gradual release of pressure is key to keeping the meat incredibly tender and juicy, preventing it from drying out. After 10-15 minutes, if there’s still pressure, carefully switch the vent to “Venting” for a quick release until the float valve drops completely.
8. Sauce and Prepare to Serve: Carefully open the lid away from your face. Use tongs to transfer the now incredibly tender short ribs to a serving platter. Generously coat them with your favorite BBQ sauce. You can also thicken the remaining liquid in the Instant Pot by selecting “Sauté” again, bringing it to a simmer, and whisking in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon cold water) until it thickens into a savory gravy.
9. Rest and Enjoy: Loosely cover the ribs with foil to keep them warm and allow them to rest for 10 minutes. This resting period allows the muscle fibers to relax and the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in even more tender and flavorful short ribs. Serve immediately with your preferred side dishes!

Expert Tips and Tricks for Flawless Short Ribs

Elevate your Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs from simply good to truly unforgettable with these invaluable tips and culinary tricks:

• Never Skip the Sear: While it might feel like an optional extra step, searing the short ribs in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting before pressure cooking is absolutely crucial. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, creates a deeply flavorful, caramelized crust on the exterior of the meat. This crust adds a layer of savory complexity and texture that cannot be achieved otherwise and also helps to lock in precious moisture.
• Infuse Maximum Flavor with Your Liquid: The liquid you add to the Instant Pot plays a vital role beyond just creating steam; it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with even more flavor. While beef broth is a solid and reliable choice, consider elevating the dish by using a dry red wine (like a rich Cabernet or a smooth Merlot) for a richer, more sophisticated profile, or even a strategic mixture of both broth and wine. You could also experiment with dark beer or apple cider for different, intriguing flavor nuances.
• Aromatics for Deep Flavor Base: For an extra layer of aromatic complexity and a truly robust flavor base, don’t hesitate to sauté finely diced onions, minced garlic, or even chopped carrots and celery in the Instant Pot with the olive oil before you add the broth. Fresh herbs like sprigs of rosemary, thyme, or a bay leaf can also be added directly to the pot with the liquid. These simple additions will build a more profound and layered flavor foundation for your tender ribs.
• Adequate Cooking Time is Paramount: Unlike some leaner cuts of beef, short ribs contain a significant amount of tough connective tissue that absolutely requires sufficient time under pressure to break down into gelatin. Ensure you set your Instant Pot to cook on high pressure for at least 45 minutes to an hour. The exact time might vary slightly depending on the thickness and size of your specific ribs, but remember, longer cooking times generally lead to greater, more desirable tenderness.
• Embrace Natural Pressure Release for Tenderness: It is critically important to allow the pressure to release naturally for at least 10-15 minutes (or even longer, up to full natural release if your schedule permits) before manually releasing any remaining pressure. This gradual decrease in pressure prevents the meat fibers from seizing up, ensuring your Instant Pot beef ribs remain incredibly tender, wonderfully juicy, and significantly less likely to dry out.
• Thicken Your Sauce (Optional but Recommended): The cooking liquid left in the Instant Pot after the ribs are done will be packed with incredible flavor. To transform this flavorful liquid into a luscious, rich gravy, simply remove the ribs, switch the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode, bring the liquid to a gentle simmer, and whisk in a slurry of cornstarch and cold water (typically 1 tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water) until it reaches your desired thickness.
• Thoughtful Serving Suggestions: These rich and robust short ribs pair beautifully with a variety of comforting sides. Consider serving them with creamy mashed potatoes, hearty cheesy grits, smooth polenta, roasted root vegetables, a crisp fresh green salad to cut through the richness, or even a tangy side of coleslaw.

Storage and Reheating Best Practices for Leftovers

Proper storage and reheating are key to ensuring your delicious Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs remain fresh, safe, and just as flavorful for future enjoyment:

• Cooling Safely: Always allow the cooked Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs to cool down completely to room temperature before attempting to store them. Transferring hot food directly into an airtight container can create excess condensation inside, which not only affects the texture but can also promote bacterial growth and reduce the overall quality of the food.
• Refrigeration: Once thoroughly cooled, carefully transfer the beef short ribs, along with any leftover sauce or savory cooking liquid, to a high-quality airtight container. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent air exposure, which can lead to spoilage and a dry texture. When stored correctly, these ribs will remain fresh and delicious in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing for Longer Term: For extended storage, you can successfully freeze the cooked short ribs. Place them in a freezer-safe airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bags, making sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They can be safely frozen for up to 3-4 months. Always label your containers or bags with the date of freezing to easily keep track of freshness.
• Effective Reheating Methods:
  • Microwave: For quick individual portions, place the ribs in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, stirring or flipping occasionally, until they are thoroughly hot throughout.
  • Oven: For larger portions or to help restore some of the delicious crispness to the exterior, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place the ribs in an oven-safe dish with a small splash of broth or water to maintain moisture, cover the dish tightly with foil, and heat for 20-30 minutes, or until completely heated through.
  • Stovetop: Gently reheat ribs and any accompanying sauce in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking, until piping hot.
• Prioritize Food Safety: Regardless of the reheating method chosen, always ensure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches a safe 165°F (74°C) before serving. Using a reliable meat thermometer is the best way to confirm this.
• Portioning for Convenience: If you anticipate only eating a portion of the Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs at a time, it’s a smart idea to divide them into smaller, individual servings before storing them. This makes it much easier and more efficient to reheat only what you need, thereby reducing potential food waste and streamlining your meal prep.

More Delicious Instant Pot & Beef Recipes You’ll Love

If you thoroughly enjoyed preparing and savoring these tender Instant Pot Bone-In Beef Short Ribs, be sure to explore these other fantastic and flavor-packed recipes:

• Air Fryer Ribeye Steak With Sautéed Mushrooms
• 25 Excellent Shaved Steak Recipes
• Instant Pot Egg Bites