By Wendy Stoltz / Last Modified On September 5, 2023

Tender and fall-off-the-bone good, these Instant Pot Short Ribs will be a new favorite dish. It's the best pressure cooker beef short ribs recipe, in my opinion. You are going to love this beef short rib recipe!

Serve these Instant Pot Short Ribs with Red Roasted Potatoes and a salad or grilled veggies for a complete meal. If you like to eat your beef short ribs with cornbread, you'll want to check out my Gluten-Free Cornbread recipe. 

You must give this Instant Pot Mongolian Beef a try too! When exploring different recipes for cooking meat in the Instant Pot, you might want to try these two gluten-free options: the Paleo Instant Pot Pressure Cooker Beef Sirloin Tips and Gluten-Free Beef Stew recipes. These recipes showcase the versatility and convenience of the Instant Pot for creating gluten-free and delicious meals.

For more meal ideas, check out my Pressure Cooker Recipes or these Gluten-Free Main Dishes.

Unlock your baking potential and master the art of creating delicious gluten-free artisan breads with this Udemy course—sign up now to elevate your bread-making skills!

Instant Pot Short Ribs Recipe

Looking for an instant pot short ribs recipe? Or maybe a pressure cooker beef short rib recipe?

This easy beef short ribs recipe produces the best beef short ribs, and the rich sauce is going to have you spooning it on everything.

I used to make beef short ribs in the slow cooker (and sometimes I still will), but lately, I have been obsessed with my Instant Pot and Instant Pot Recipes!

Now we make instant pot short ribs at least twice a month. Keep an eye on the sales, as they go down all the time. You can also get the non-ultra version. It's priced reasonably.

This instant pot short ribs recipe is so insanely easy and delicious that you will want to make it repeatedly.

Why You’re Going to Love These Instant Pot Short Ribs

Quick cooking time - It takes less than an hour, allowing you to enjoy these short ribs in no time.

Gluten- and sugar-free - This recipe is naturally gluten-free and sugar-free, making it suitable for many with dietary restrictions or preferences.

Tender and savory - The beef short ribs are incredibly tender and flavorful, providing a satisfying and savory eating experience.

Make ahead friendly - This dish can be made ahead of time, allowing you to plan and prepare in advance for a stress-free meal.

Ingredients in Instant Pot Short Ribs

Rosemary - Add flavor which is savory and aromatic.

Onion salt - Enhances the overall seasoning and provides a subtle onion flavor.

Paprika - Adds a touch of smokiness and deepens the color of the dish.

Ground pepper - Adds mild heat and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Sage - Provides an earthy and slightly floral taste that complements the beef.

Beef short rib - The main protein component of the dish, known for its rich flavor and tender texture.

High-temperature oil - Used for searing the short ribs and adding depth of flavor.

Tomato paste - Adds a rich and tangy base to the sauce.

Cold Water or broth - Provides moisture and helps create extra flavor in the sauce.

Balsamic vinegar - Adds acidity and a slightly sweet tang to balance the meat's richness.

Dijon mustard - Enhances the flavor profile with its tangy and slightly spicy notes.

Unsweetened cocoa powder - Adds a subtle richness and depth to the rich sauce.

Garlic - Infuses the dish with a pungent and aromatic flavor.

Equipment Needed for This Instant Pot Short Ribs

Instant Pot - The main equipment required for this recipe is an Instant Pot or any similar electric pressure cooker to cook the short ribs.

Tongs - Tongs are handy for searing and handling the browned short ribs while transferring them in and out of the Instant Pot.

Spoon or spatula - You'll need a spoon or spatula to mix the sauce ingredients and ensure they are well combined in the Instant Pot.

If you have any questions about making Instant Pot Short Ribs, please comment, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

How to Make Instant Pot Short Ribs

1. Mix the first five ingredients (the spices).
2. Rub the spices outside the beef short rib; set aside.
3. Set your instant pot to sauté. Drizzle oil into an instant pot.
4. Using tongs, lower short ribs into Instant Pot. Sear all sides.
5. Remove short ribs; set aside. Add tomato paste, cold water, balsamic, Dijon mustard, cocoa, and garlic to the Instant Pot.
6. Mix until combined.
7. Add short ribs.
8. Place lid on Instant Pot and lock into place. Turn the settings to "Pressure Cooker," and set the timer for 40 minutes.

Use the quick release when it's done. Serve hot with additional sauce spooned over the top of the short ribs.

This year we're really trying to get better about making healthy high-protein meals at home. We will definitely be rotating these Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs into our meal plan at least once a month. You can never have too many leftover beef short ribs.

If you don't have an Instant Pot, you can still enjoy my traditional slow cooker Savory Beef Short Ribs. This Instant Pot Pot Roast is also super simple to make and savory.

Tips for Making the Best Instant Pot Short Ribs

Follow the directions and don't skip steps - It's important to follow the recipe instructions carefully to ensure the best results and flavor.

Achieve a good brown crust when browning the short ribs - When searing the short ribs, ensure a nice brown crust on all sides. This will add flavor and texture to the meat.

Add ingredients in the listed order - Follow the order of ingredients as listed in the recipe. This helps in layering flavors and ensures proper cooking.

Allow short ribs to cool down in the Instant Pot before quick release - After the cooking time is complete, let the Instant Pot naturally release pressure for at least 10 minutes before a quick release. This helps to retain moisture and maintain the tenderness of the meat.

Spoon extra sauce over the beef short ribs before serving - To enhance the flavor and presentation, spoon some of the delicious sauce over the short ribs before serving.

Store leftovers with sauce covering the meat - When storing leftover beef short ribs, ensure the sauce covers the meat completely. This helps to prevent drying out and keeps the meat moist and flavorful when reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Store Instant Pot Ribs?

To store Instant Pot short ribs, allow them to cool to room temperature, then transfer them with the sauce to an airtight container or sealed storage bag. Refrigerate the short ribs, ensuring the meat is fully covered with the sauce, for up to 3-4 days.

Can I Freeze Instant Pot Ribs?

Yes, you can freeze leftover short ribs for longer storage. Let the cooked short ribs cool completely in the refrigerator, then place them and the sauce in a freezer-safe container or freezer bags, removing excess air. Label the container with the date and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw the frozen short ribs in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Can You Make This Instant Pot Ribs Ahead of Time?

If you'd like to make Instant Pot short ribs beforehand, you can do so. Simply follow the recipe, allow the cooked short ribs to cool, and store them as mentioned earlier. When you're ready to serve, reheat the refrigerated or frozen short ribs until warmed through.

Which Setting Do I Use To Make These Pressure Cooker Beef Short Ribs?

The Instant Pot has several settings, depending on which model you have. I used the "Pressure Cook" setting, also known as the manual setting to make these.

Some people have a "slow cooker" setting. That setting is to make the instant pot act like a slow cooker.

You'll want to use the pressure cooker setting for these instant pot beef short ribs. The setting is what makes these beef short ribs tender.

This Pressure Cooker Beef Short Ribs recipe is a spin on my traditional slower cooker Savory Beef Short Ribs. The instant pot beef short ribs are as tender and flavorful as when you cook them in a slow cooker.

How long should you cook short ribs in Instant Pot?

It only takes about 40 - 50 minutes for most beef short rib recipes in the instant pot. When it beeps, do a natural pressure release for 10 minutes and then release any remaining steam.

40 minutes may seem like a long time, but most short rib recipes take 6-8 hours in a slow cooker.

The instant pot speeds up the process without compromising taste or texture in the instant pot short ribs.

What is a beef rib finger?

You can also use beef rib fingers in this recipe; just reduce the time by 10 minutes.

Beef rib Fingers are thin strips of beef cut from between individual ribs. It's essentially the rib but without the bone. It's nice and tender when cooked correctly.

This instant pot short ribs recipe is as simple as mixing the spices or using your favorite rub and searing the meat. Add in the other ingredients and let the Instant Pot do its magic.

As an added bonus, not only do you get to enjoy amazing beef short ribs, but the bones take on a spicy flavor and are super tasty when used to make bone broth.

Can I cook instant pot short ribs from frozen?

Yes. You can start with frozen beef short ribs for this instant pot beef short rib recipe. Simply add 5 minutes to the cooking time.

Can I quick release my instant pot short ribs?

Instant pots kick into a slow release or "cool down" function when the cooking time is complete. For best results, allow your instant pot beef short ribs to sit in the instant pot while it naturally releases the pressure (about 10 minutes).

You can also "quick" release the pressure when the cooking time is complete. Your instant pot beef short ribs will still be fall-off-the-bone tender.

How Do I cook instant pot short ribs in red wine?

Adding wine to instant pot short beef ribs is a great way to add more flavor to the dish! Use a splash of dry red wine suitable for drinking, such as Pinot Noir, Merlot, or Cabernet.

Why are my ribs tough in the Instant Pot?

Usually, the ribs turn out tough if they are too large or too thick, and the cooking time just isn't enough. The trick is to buy racks that weigh about three pounds each; cut the slab in half before placing it into the instant pot. 

How do you get fall-off-the-bone ribs?

To make your ribs fall off the bone, allow the meat to sit in the instant pot while it naturally releases the pressure, which is about 10 minutes after the cooking is done.

Is it better to slow cook or pressure cook ribs?

It all depends on how much time you have. Beef ribs are thicker and take longer to cook. Typically, it takes an hour in an instant pot and up to six hours in the slow cooker. 

Do you have to brown short ribs?

There is no rule that says you must brown short ribs. However, browning takes a few minutes and helps add rich flavor to instant pot short ribs!

How Many Short Ribs Per Person Should I Plan On?

It depends on the weight and size of the short ribs. Generally, it is recommended to plan 1 to 3 short beef ribs per person. Anyway, everyone loves leftovers!

Can I Put The Short Ribs Right In The Pot With The Juices Or On A Rack?

When cooking short ribs in an Instant Pot, there are two common approaches to consider:

Cooking directly in the pot with the juices - This is the method I use. The short ribs are placed directly in the cooking liquid, along with any other ingredients, as per the recipe directions. This allows the meat to cook in flavorful juices, producing a rich and well-infused final dish. This is the typical approach for most Instant Pot short rib recipes.

Using a rack - Alternatively, you can use a rack or steamer basket placed inside the Instant Pot to elevate the short ribs above the cooking liquid. This method is useful if you want to separate the meat from the juices, allowing the excess fat to drain away from the ribs during cooking. Using a rack can result in a slightly leaner end result.

The choice depends on personal preference and the desired outcome of the dish. I have only tried the direct in-pot method. Let us know if you try the rack method.

What Do I Look For When Choosing Pressure Cooker Short Ribs At The Grocery Store?

When choosing short ribs at the grocery store, here are a few things to look for:

Quality and freshness - Look for short ribs with a fresh, bright red color. Avoid those with any discoloration or signs of browning.

Marbling - Check for good marbling, which refers to the thin streaks of fat running through the meat. Marbling adds flavor and helps keep the meat moist during cooking, resulting in tender and juicy short ribs.

Thickness and size - Look for short ribs that are of similar thickness and size, as this ensures even cooking. If possible, choose ribs that are well-trimmed and evenly cut.

Bone-in short ribs or boneless - Decide whether you prefer bone-in or boneless short ribs. Bone-in ribs have more flavor, while boneless ribs are easier to eat and handle.

Ask the butcher - If you're unsure or have specific preferences, don't hesitate to ask the butcher for assistance. They can provide guidance and help you choose the best short ribs for this recipe.

Remember, selecting high-quality short ribs will contribute to the overall taste and texture of your Instant Pot Short Ribs.

Can You Overcook Slow Cooked Short Ribs?

Yes, it is possible to overcook slow-cooked short ribs. Short ribs are tough cuts of meat that benefit from long, slow cooking to break down the collagen and become tender. However, if they are cooked for too long, they can become overly soft and lose their texture.

What Different Flavor Ideas Can You Use For These Bone-In Pressure Cooker Short Ribs?

Here are some different flavor ideas you can consider when making Instant Pot short ribs:

• Asian-inspired - Add ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey or brown sugar for a savory and slightly sweet flavor profile. 
• Mexican-style - Use chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and a touch of chipotle pepper or adobo sauce for a smoky and spicy kick. 
• Mediterranean-inspired - Create a Mediterranean twist using ingredients like dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, and a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar. 
• Barbecue-style - Infuse your short ribs with classic barbecue flavors by using a barbecue sauce or creating your own with a combination of tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper. You can also add a hint of liquid smoke for that authentic smoky barbecue taste.

What Do We Look For in Perfectly Cooked Pressure Cooker Short Ribs?

In perfectly cooked short ribs, there are a few key characteristics to look for:

• Tenderness - The meat should be tender and easily pulled apart with a fork. It should have a melt-in-your-mouth texture without being mushy.
• Juiciness - Well-cooked short ribs will have a juicy and moist interior. The meat should retain its natural juices and not be dry or tough.
• Flavor Infusion - The flavors of the spices, seasonings, and any added sauces or marinades should have permeated the meat, resulting in a rich and flavorful taste throughout.
• Bone Separation - If you use bone-in short ribs, the meat should easily separate from the bone. It should not be sticking or clinging to the bone, indicating that it has properly cooked and loosened from the connective tissues.
• Balanced Texture - The texture of the meat should strike a balance between tender and firm. It should be soft and succulent while maintaining structure and a meaty bite.

How Do I serve these braised Instant Pot short ribs?

• Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
• Gluten-Free Biscuits
• Lemon Wok Asparagus
• Air Fryer Green Beans
• Cheesy Potatoes
• Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole

These Pressure Cooker Beef Short Ribs were on the table in less than an hour. I like to serve mine with bok choy and mashed sweet potatoes.

They are naturally gluten-free and sugar-free, making them Paleo and Primal friendly (for those who eat Paleo or Primal).

For dessert, we recommend pairing this beef short rib dinner with Black Raspberry Ice Cream. If you're looking for something else, this gluten-free tiramisu is also lovely.

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Yield: 4-6 servings

Instant Pot Short Ribs

Print

Tender and fall-of-the-bone good, these Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are going to be a new favorite. It's the best pressure cooker beef short ribs recipe, in my opinion.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Total Time 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 teaspoon rosemary
• 1 teaspoon onion salt
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• ½ teaspoon sage
• 2 lbs. beef short rib
• 2 tablespoons high temperature oil
• 1 6oz can tomato paste
• 1 and ½ cups water or broth
• ¼ cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 6 cloves garlic, whole

Instructions

1. Mix the first five ingredients (the spices) and rub on the outside of the beef short rib; set aside.
2. Set your instant pot to sauté.
3. Drizzle oil into instant pot.
4. Using tongs, lower short ribs into Instant Pot.
5. Sear all sides.
6. Remove short ribs; set aside.
7. Add tomato paste, water, balsamic, Dijon mustard, cocoa, and garlic to the Instant Pot and mix with a spoon until combined.
8. Add short ribs.
9. Place lid on Instant Pot and lock into place.
10. Make sure your steam vent is turned to closed.
11. Turn the settings to "Pressure Cooker", and set the timer for 40 minutes.
12. Once the 40 minutes are up, let the Instant Pot sit for 10 minutes.
13. Carefully press the pressure release valve.
14. Once all the pressure is released, unlock the lid.
15. Spoon sauce over each piece of beef short rib and serve warm.

Notes

Please note that the nutritional information may not be accurate. It depends on how many short rib you make, and how big they are. Also, how much sauce you drizzle over the short ribs plays into the total nutritional count.

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Nutrition Information:

Yield:

6

Serving Size:

2 short ribs
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 563Total Fat: 40gSaturated Fat: 16gTrans Fat: 2gUnsaturated Fat: 24gCholesterol: 152mgSodium: 617mgCarbohydrates: 11gFiber: 2gSugar: 6gProtein: 41g

This nutrition info is based on the exact ingredients and brands used at the time. It may not be 100% accurate. Please check your ingredients nutrition labels.

Make Next: Gluten-Free Fried Pickles