How to make Beef Short Ribs Oven Baked Recipe

If you’ve ever craved that rich, fall-off-the-bone tenderness of beef short ribs, baked slowly in the oven to perfection, you know the magic of a good meal. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, a holiday feast, or a cozy weeknight treat, beef short ribs oven baked recipe is one you’ll want to keep in your cooking repertoire. There’s something about the slow, careful cooking process that transforms this humble cut of beef into a melt-in-your-mouth masterpiece. If you’ve never tried it before or want to perfect your technique, this guide is exactly what you need.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know to make the perfect oven-baked beef short ribs—from choosing the right cut to crafting the most flavorful seasoning. We’ll walk you through the steps, offer expert tips, and give you ideas on what to serve with your dish to elevate your cooking game. Ready to bring home the magic? Let’s get started!

What Are Beef Short Ribs?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s first understand what makes beef short ribs such a great choice for oven baking. Beef short ribs are a cut of beef taken from the rib section, specifically the lower ribs. They are known for their rich flavor and tender texture, thanks to the marbling of fat and connective tissue that breaks down during slow cooking.

There are two primary types of beef short ribs:

• Flanken-style: These ribs are cut across the bone, resulting in thinner slices that are often used for grilling or braising.
• English-style: These are cut parallel to the bone, leaving a larger piece of meat around each bone. This cut is perfect for slow roasting in the oven.

In this recipe, we’ll focus on the English-style beef short ribs, as they’re ideal for oven baking. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender, and the flavors develop beautifully over time. You’ll notice that the longer the ribs cook, the more the fat renders, creating an incredibly rich and juicy bite.

Why Choose an Oven Baked Recipe for Beef Short Ribs?

Oven baking beef short ribs has many advantages. Unlike grilling or pan-searing, oven baking allows for low and slow cooking, which results in tender, juicy meat that literally falls off the bone. Here are just a few reasons why this method works so well for beef short ribs:

• Tenderness: The slow oven-baking process ensures the meat becomes incredibly tender. As the ribs cook at a low temperature for several hours, the collagen and fat break down, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Flavor Infusion: Baking the ribs allows the seasonings and liquids (like broth or wine) to infuse the meat over time. This slow process helps the beef absorb all the flavors from herbs, garlic, and vegetables.
• Less Hands-On Time: Once your ribs are in the oven, you can focus on other tasks, making this recipe ideal for busy days. You won’t need to constantly watch the stove or grill.
• Crispy Edges: If you’re after that perfect balance of tender meat and crispy edges, oven baking allows you to achieve this by uncovering the ribs in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Now that you know why oven baking is the way to go, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need for the perfect beef short ribs.

Ingredients You’ll Need for the Perfect Oven-Baked Beef Short Ribs

For this oven-baked beef short ribs recipe, you don’t need many ingredients. What you do need are the essentials to ensure a flavorful and tender end result. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential Ingredients:

• Beef Short Ribs (3-4 pounds): The star of the dish! Look for bone-in, English-style short ribs for the best results.
• Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Used for searing the ribs to lock in juices before baking.
• Salt & Pepper (to taste): These basic seasonings will bring out the natural flavors of the beef.
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Adds depth of flavor and aromatic richness.
• Onion (1 medium, sliced): Brings sweetness and balance to the dish.
• Beef Broth (2 cups): Provides moisture during the baking process and helps tenderize the meat.
• Wine (optional, 1 cup): A good dry red wine adds even more richness to the dish, but you can skip it if preferred.
• Herbs (2 sprigs each of thyme and rosemary): Fresh herbs add a beautiful fragrance and flavor.

Optional Ingredients:

• Vegetables (carrots, celery): Roasting vegetables alongside your ribs adds flavor to the dish and can be served as a side.

You can easily adjust the ingredients based on your personal preferences, but these staples will give you the foundation for a truly unforgettable meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Baking Beef Short Ribs

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to get cooking! Here’s how to bake beef short ribs in the oven:

Prepping the Beef Ribs

1. Pat the Ribs Dry: Start by patting your beef short ribs dry with paper towels. This is crucial because moisture can interfere with the searing process, preventing the ribs from developing that rich, brown crust.
2. Season the Ribs: Rub the ribs generously with salt, pepper, and minced garlic. Be sure to coat all sides for maximum flavor. If you have time, let the ribs marinate in the fridge for a few hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat.

Searing the Ribs

3. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ribs and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned. This step locks in the juices and creates a delicious caramelized crust.
4. Remove the Ribs: Once the ribs are browned on all sides, remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Cooking in the Oven

5. Prepare the Pan: In the same skillet or Dutch oven, add your sliced onions, garlic, and herbs. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant, then pour in the beef broth and wine (if using).
6. Return the Ribs to the Pan: Place the browned short ribs back into the pan, bone side down. Ensure that the liquid comes up about halfway to the top of the ribs.
7. Cover and Bake: Cover the pan tightly with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the oven. Bake at 275°F for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Final Touches

8. Crisp the Edges: About 30 minutes before the ribs are done, remove the foil to allow the edges of the ribs to crisp up. This step gives the ribs a nice, caramelized finish.
9. Rest Before Serving: Once the ribs are done, let them rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute and makes for a more tender bite.

Tips for Perfectly Baked Beef Short Ribs

Here are a few expert tips to help you get the best results every time:

• Searing is Key: Don’t skip the searing step! It adds a deep, rich flavor to the meat that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Low and Slow: Patience is your best friend here. The longer the short ribs cook, the more tender and flavorful they become. Resist the urge to increase the heat!
• Let the Ribs Rest: After baking, let the ribs rest before serving to ensure they stay juicy and tender.
• Experiment with Marinades: While this recipe is simple, you can easily add your favorite marinade (soy sauce, honey, Dijon mustard) to add a personal touch to the dish.

What to Serve with Beef Short Ribs

Beef short ribs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing with beef short ribs. The smooth texture contrasts wonderfully with the rich meat.
• Roasted Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts roasted in the oven with olive oil and herbs complement the savory ribs perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: If you want to add a little something extra, serve your beef short ribs with a side of crispy garlic bread.
• Simple Salad: A fresh salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette can help cut through the richness of the ribs.

Nutritional Information for Beef Short Ribs

If you’re curious about the nutritional breakdown of beef short ribs, here’s what you can expect per serving (1 rib, about 3-4 oz):

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25-30g
• Fat: 25-30g (mostly from healthy fats)
• Carbohydrates: 5-10g (depending on the sides you serve)

While beef short ribs are a bit higher in calories due to the fat content, they are also rich in protein and nutrients, making them a satisfying and delicious meal option.

FAQs About Beef Short Ribs Oven Baked Recipe

Q1: Can I use frozen beef short ribs for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the ribs thoroughly in the refrigerator before starting the recipe. Cooking from frozen can affect the searing process, so it’s best to thaw them first.

Q2: How do I store leftover beef short ribs?

Leftover short ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to store them for longer, you can freeze the ribs for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Q3: How do I reheat leftover beef short ribs?

To reheat, place the ribs in a 300°F oven for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep them moist.

Q4: Can I cook beef short ribs in a slow cooker instead?

Yes, you can! If you prefer, you can cook beef short ribs in a slow cooker. Set the slow cooker on low for 7-8 hours for tender results.

Conclusion: Savor the Flavor of Perfectly Baked Beef Short Ribs

There’s something deeply satisfying about sinking your teeth into tender, flavorful beef short ribs after a long, slow bake in the oven. This recipe will ensure your ribs are everything you’ve dreamed of—succulent, tender, and full of rich, savory flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, beef short ribs will always impress. So, fire up your oven, follow these steps, and treat yourself to a meal that’s truly unforgettable!

Are you ready to create your own beef short rib masterpiece? Share your cooking experience in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag your photos with #BeefShortRibsOnTheM