Description
These Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs feature tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef braised in a flavorful cola BBQ sauce. Perfectly seared and slow-braised in the oven, this recipe delivers rich, smoky flavors with a slightly crisp finish, ideal for a comforting dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Cola BBQ Sauce
- 1 batch Cola BBQ Sauce (prepared separately, refer to your preferred recipe)
Short Ribs
- 4 lbs boneless beef short ribs, cut into 3-inch pieces
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons avocado oil (or vegetable/canola oil), as needed
Instructions
- Prep BBQ Sauce: Prepare your batch of cola BBQ sauce following your chosen recipe. Set it aside to cool completely before using it with the ribs.
- Season and Rest Ribs: Generously season the short ribs all over with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the meat to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to absorb the seasoning and improve cooking.
- Sear Ribs: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs in batches, making sure each piece is deeply browned on all sides. Once seared, transfer the ribs to an oven-safe baking dish.
- Braise Short Ribs: Pour the cooled cola BBQ sauce evenly over the ribs to coat them thoroughly. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Braise the ribs in the preheated oven for 3 hours or until the meat is meltingly tender.
- Finish Cooking: Remove the foil and continue to cook the ribs for an additional 30 minutes uncovered to allow the top to become slightly crisp and caramelized.
- Serve: Serve the BBQ short ribs immediately alongside your favorite sides such as mashed potatoes, cornbread, or coleslaw. They can also be enjoyed between sandwich bread for a hearty meal.
Notes
- Use boneless short ribs for easier handling and faster cooking.
- Resting the ribs before searing helps the seasoning penetrate and ensures even cooking.
- Searing the meat locks in juices and adds rich flavor through caramelization.
- Low and slow braising results in tender, flavorful ribs that fall apart easily.
- For extra smoky flavor, consider adding a splash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to the BBQ sauce.
- This recipe pairs well with classic Southern sides like coleslaw and baked beans.
