The smell of tender, oven-baked beef  ribs is incredibly comforting. This simple cut of meat turns into a delicious treat with a little effort. Today, I’m sharing a foolproof recipe for oven-baked beef short ribs that will impress everyone.

These short ribs in the oven are packed with rich flavor and a smooth texture. The slow cooking breaks down the tough parts, making them tender. When they come out of the oven, they’re as good as a restaurant dish but easy for a weeknight.

Key Recipe Details

Ingredients (Per Serving): Beef short ribs, olive oil, garlic, onion, red wine, beef broth, thyme, salt, pepper.

Serving Size: 4 servings

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes – 3 hours 20 minutes

Nutritional Info (Per Serving): Calories 450, Protein 35g, Carbs 10g, Fats 28g, Fiber 2g, Sodium 750mg.

Key Takeaways

• Oven-baked beef short ribs are a simple and delicious comfort food
• The slow cooking process transforms tough meat into a tender, fall-off-the-bone dish
• A flavorful marinade and braising liquid are the keys to perfect short ribs
• Precise temperature and timing are essential for melt-in-your-mouth texture
• Pair these short ribs with your favorite sides and a glass of red wine for a complete, satisfying meal

Understanding Beef Short Ribs: Types and Selection

When it comes to slow-cooked beef short ribs, knowing the different types and picking quality cuts is key. This ensures your dish turns out delicious. Let’s explore the world of beef short ribs and what to consider for your culinary masterpiece.

English-Cut vs. Flanken-Style Short Ribs

Beef short ribs come in two main types: English-cut and Flanken-style. English-cut ribs are cut across the bone, making them thick and rectangular. Flanken-style ribs are cut the same way but are thinner and more like strips. Each type is best for different cooking methods.

Choosing Quality Beef Short Ribs

When picking beef short ribs, look for ones that are well-marbled and have a deep color. The marbling, or fat in the meat, is key for tender and flavorful ribs. Stay away from ribs with too much fat or connective tissue. These can make your dish tough and less tasty.

USDA Grades and Marbling

Knowing the USDA grading system helps find the best beef short ribs. The USDA grades beef based on marbling, maturity, and quality. Choose cuts graded USDA Choice or USDA Prime for the best slow-cooked beef short ribs.

“The key to perfectly tender and flavorful beef short ribs is selecting the right cut with the ideal amount of marbling.”

Essential Equipment for Oven-Baked Short Ribs

When cooking short ribs in the oven, the right tools are key. They help make the ribs tender and full of flavor. Let’s look at the must-have items for a great short ribs recipe oven or beef short ribs oven baked recipe.

Roasting Pans and Baking Dishes

The base of your short ribs dish is the roasting pan or baking dish. Pick a sturdy, oven-safe pan with tall sides. This keeps the braising liquid in and prevents spills. A cast-iron or stainless steel pan is best because it can handle high oven temperatures.

Dutch Ovens and Braisers

A Dutch oven or braiser is great for a more controlled cooking space. These pots let you sear the ribs on the stovetop and then slow cook them in the oven. The tight lid keeps the juices in, making the ribs super tender.

Meat Thermometer

A good meat thermometer is crucial for beef short ribs oven baked recipe. It checks the ribs’ internal temperature. This ensures they’re cooked just right.

“The right tools can transform a good short ribs dish into a phenomenal one.”

With these key tools, you’re ready to make delicious oven-baked short ribs. They’ll wow your family and friends.

Preparing Short Ribs for Oven Cooking

To get the best flavor and tenderness from beef short ribs, start with the right prep. First, trim off any extra fat. This makes the meat leaner and more tender. Then, season your beef short rib marinade with spices and herbs. This step can really bring out the taste.

Trimming and Seasoning Techniques

Begin by cutting off big pieces of fat from the tender short ribs. Keep just a thin layer for basting. Next, remove the silver skin and any tough tissue. This helps the meat stay tender.

After trimming, dry the ribs with paper towels. Then, season them well with salt, pepper, garlic, and other spices. Choose your favorite mix for the best flavor.

Perfect Marinade Components

• Red wine or balsamic vinegar to tenderize the meat
• Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor
• Honey or brown sugar to balance the acidity
• Fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano
• Garlic, onions, or shallots for aromatic complexity

Put these ingredients in a bag or bowl. Add the seasoned ribs and refrigerate. Let the beef short rib marinade work its magic for at least 2 hours. For even more flavor, marinate for up to 24 hours.

Dry Rub Options

For a different approach, try a dry rub on the tender short ribs before cooking. Mix brown sugar, paprika, cumin, chili powder, and spices. This rub will create a tasty crust on the meat as it bakes.

How to Cook Short Ribs in Oven: Step-by-Step Guide

Cooking short ribs in the oven is easy and makes them tender and flavorful. Follow this guide to learn how to make oven-baked short ribs:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.
3. Heat a large, oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of oil and sear the short ribs on all sides until they’re golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the seared short ribs to a plate and set aside.
5. In the same pot, add any aromatic vegetables you desire, such as diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they’re softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Deglaze the pot with a cup of red wine or beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
7. Return the seared short ribs to the pot and pour in enough liquid (such as beef broth or a combination of red wine and stock) to just cover the ribs.
8. Bring the liquid to a simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
9. Braise the short ribs in the oven for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Once the short ribs are tender, remove the pot from the oven and let them rest for 10-15 minutes. Serve the oven-baked beef ribs with your favorite sides, such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the perfectly cooked, fall-off-the-bone short ribs!

“Oven-baked short ribs are a testament to the power of patience and low, slow cooking. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s well worth the wait.”

Creating the Perfect Braising Liquid

Creating the ultimate red wine-braised short ribs or slow-cooked beef short ribs starts with the braising liquid. The right mix can turn tough meat into tender, delicious bites. Let’s look at the best ways to make your short ribs special.

Red Wine-Based Braising

Using red wine to braise short ribs is a classic choice. A good red wine adds unmatched flavor and complexity. Choose full-bodied wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, or Shiraz for the best results.

Beer and Stock Alternatives

Red wine isn’t the only option for slow-cooked beef short ribs. Craft beer or a mix of stock can also make a tasty braising liquid. Try different ones to find your favorite.

Aromatics and Seasonings

Adding aromatic veggies and spices is key, no matter the braising liquid. Onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and herbs like thyme and rosemary can make your red wine-braised short ribs unforgettable. They add a rich flavor that will delight your taste buds.

“The secret to perfectly tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs lies in the braising liquid. Embrace the power of bold flavors to transform these tough cuts into culinary masterpieces.”

Temperature and Timing for Tender Short Ribs

Getting your slow-roasted short ribs just right is all about the right temperature and timing. The secret is in cooking them low and slow. This method breaks down the connective tissues and blends the flavors beautifully.

The ideal oven temperature for tender short ribs is between 275°F and 325°F. This range ensures the meat cooks slowly. This makes the collagen turn into gelatin, making the ribs tender and delicious. For the best results, aim for the lower end of this range. This allows for a longer cooking time, which is good for the ribs.

1. For English-cut short ribs, plan on a cooking time of 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
2. Flanken-style short ribs may require a slightly shorter cooking time of 2 to 3 hours.
3. Adjust the timing based on the thickness of your short ribs, checking for doneness periodically.

Be patient and let the tender short ribs cook low and slow. This turns tough ribs into slow-roasted short ribs perfection. Don’t open the oven door too often. This can mess up the cooking and affect the taste.

“The secret to melt-in-your-mouth short ribs is all about finding the perfect balance of temperature and time in the oven.”

By following these guidelines, your tender short ribs will cook slowly. This results in fall-off-the-bone, slow-roasted short ribs that will impress everyone and satisfy your taste buds.

Signs of Perfectly Cooked Short Ribs

Getting your oven-baked short ribs just right is the ultimate goal. But how do you know when they’re perfectly cooked? Look for these signs to ensure your short ribs are ready to serve.

Visual Indicators

As the short ribs cook, the meat will pull back from the bone. This shows more of the juicy interior. The outside will also get a rich, caramelized crust, revealing tender meat inside.

Temperature Testing

For the most reliable way to check doneness, use a meat thermometer. Aim for an internal temperature between 200°F and 205°F. This ensures the meat is tender and falls apart easily.

Texture Assessment

• Gently press on the short ribs with a fork or tongs. They should feel very tender and offer little resistance.
• Try sliding a fork into the meat. It should go through easily, separating the ribs from the bone.
• When lifting the ribs, they should fall off the bone with little effort.

By watching these signs, you’ll know when your short ribs are perfectly cooked. They’ll be tender and fall apart easily.

Serving Suggestions and Wine Pairings

Make your oven-baked beef short ribs even better with the right sides and wines. These choices will bring out the rich, tender flavors of your dish.

Complementary Side Dishes

• Creamy mashed potatoes or buttery garlic mashed potatoes to soak up the savory pan juices
• Roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts to add a touch of sweetness
• Buttered egg noodles or hearty polenta for a starch that complements the braised meat
• A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the beef short ribs

Wine Pairings

The bold, meaty flavors of oven-baked beef short ribs pair well with full-bodied red wines. Here are some great wine options to enjoy with your meal:

1. Cabernet Sauvignon – This classic red wine’s rich, tannic profile matches the beefy short ribs perfectly.
2. Merlot – A softer, more approachable red wine that balances the intensity of the braised beef.
3. Syrah/Shiraz – These bold, peppery red wines have the structure to match the robust flavors of the short ribs.

“The perfect pairing of tender, oven-baked beef short ribs and a robust red wine creates a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.”

Paired with the perfect sides and wines, your oven-baked beef short rib recipe is sure to impress. It will be a meal your family and guests will love.

Conclusion

Learning to make oven-baked short ribs is a fun and rewarding experience. It starts with knowing the different types of short ribs and picking the best cuts. Then, using the right techniques, you can make your short ribs tender and full of flavor.

Choosing a bold red wine-based braising liquid or trying something new is key. Let the short ribs cook slowly in the oven. This way, you’ll get a meal that’s both impressive and comforting.

This method is easy enough for anyone to try at home. With the right tools and a little prep, you can make short ribs that taste like they came from a restaurant. So, give this oven-baked short rib recipe a try. The delicious results will be worth the effort.

Cooking is all about exploring and finding new flavors. Don’t be afraid to try different seasonings, marinades, and braising liquids. By mastering the basics of oven-baked short ribs in oven and beef short ribs, you’ll create meals that your family will love. These meals can become special family traditions.