If you’ve ever dreamed of the perfect BBQ that melts in your mouth while packing a big flavor punch, then the Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe is your new best friend. Rich, tender, and imbued with a luscious cola-infused BBQ sauce, these short ribs deliver that smoky, slightly sweet comfort food vibe you crave. The slow-cooking process guarantees juicy, fall-apart meat that’s perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing guests. Once you try this recipe, it will become your go-to for any occasion where you want hearty, soul-satisfying BBQ done right.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Believe it or not, this Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe calls for just a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that come together to create something truly spectacular. Each one plays a role in building that perfect balance of flavor, tenderness, and mouthwatering color.
- 4 lbs boneless beef short ribs: The star of the dish, chosen for their rich marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the natural beef flavor and build a savory crust.
- 2-3 tablespoons avocado oil: Provides a high smoke point for perfect searing and adds a neutral, clean flavor.
- 1 batch Cola BBQ Sauce: Unique and vibrant, this sauce combines the sweetness of cola with tangy BBQ flavors to deepen the taste.
How to Make Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cola BBQ Sauce
Start by preparing the cola BBQ sauce. This sauce is what sets this recipe apart, with its subtle sweetness and acidity that complement the richness of the ribs. Make it ahead and let it cool so it’s ready to infuse your meat with incredible flavor.
Step 2: Season the Short Ribs
Generously season your beef short ribs with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t be shy here; the seasoning forms the flavor foundation. Let them rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to help the seasoning penetrate and to ensure even cooking.
Step 3: Sear the Short Ribs
Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches, sear the ribs until they develop a deep, golden-brown crust on all sides. This step locks in juices and creates a beautiful caramelized exterior that’s packed with smoky richness. After searing, transfer the ribs to an oven-safe baking dish.
Step 4: Braise with Cola BBQ Sauce
Pour the cola BBQ sauce over the ribs, ensuring every piece is well coated. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap in steam and moisture. Let the ribs braise in the oven for 3 hours; this slow cook breaks down connective tissue, making the meat tender and juicy. After 3 hours, remove the foil to let the ribs crisp up nicely and take on a bit of a char for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
The moment you’ve been waiting for — serving these delicious ribs! They’re irresistibly tender, boasting a sticky-sweet sauce that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Serve them hot to experience the full juicy explosion of flavors.
How to Serve Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can brighten the deep flavors of the ribs. For a spicy kick, add thin slices of fresh jalapeño or a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing. These garnishes add layers of freshness and contrast, making every bite exciting.
Side Dishes
This Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe pairs perfectly with classic BBQ sides such as creamy mashed potatoes, sweet cornbread, or crisp coleslaw. The creamy and crunchy textures balance the rich, tender ribs beautifully, creating a satisfying and well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Beyond the classic plate, try serving the ribs on a toasted bun as a decadent sandwich, topped with pickled onions or slaw for crunch and acidity. You can also shred the meat and use it in tacos or over a baked potato for a fun twist on BBQ night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover ribs are amazing because the flavors deepen overnight. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep the meat moist and delicious.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe later, freeze the fully cooled ribs in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftover ribs in a covered dish in the oven at 300°F (150°C) to retain moisture, or warm in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the meat.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in short ribs for this recipe?
Absolutely! Bone-in ribs add extra flavor during cooking, but you may need a slightly longer braise time to reach that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
What if I don’t have cola for the BBQ sauce?
If you’re out of cola, try substituting with root beer, ginger ale, or even a mix of brown sugar and vinegar for a similar sweet and tangy profile.
How do I know when the ribs are done?
The ribs are ready when they’re tender enough to pull apart easily with a fork and have that rich, deep color from the sauce and searing process.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing, transfer ribs and sauce to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until tender. Finish under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp the top if desired.
Is avocado oil necessary or can I use another oil?
You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable or canola oil. Avocado oil is recommended for its health benefits and clean flavor but it’s not mandatory.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs Recipe enough if you want to wow your taste buds and guests alike. It hits every note: unbelievably tender meat, a rich and flavorful sauce, and the comfort of classic BBQ done with a special twist. Give it a try—you’ll soon see why it’s a favorite that keeps people coming back for more!
