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If you’re searching for a show-stopper recipe that brings bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, then I’m thrilled to share this Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe. It’s everything you want in comfort food—rich, smoky, and delectably sweet with a hint of cola that perfectly balances the savory beef. Whether it’s a weekend gathering or a cozy dinner at home, these ribs will have everyone asking for seconds and dreaming about the next time you make them.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe uses surprisingly simple ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of irresistible flavor and texture. Each component plays a crucial role: the ribs offer hearty, tender meat; the cola adds a subtle sweetness and tang; and the seasoning brings out the natural beefiness while creating a lovely caramelized crust.
- 4 lbs boneless beef short ribs: Look for well-marbled ribs for the best tenderness and flavor after slow cooking.
- Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the meat’s natural flavor and helping to season every bite.
- Freshly ground black pepper: Adds an aromatic heat that complements the sweetness of the sauce.
- 2-3 tablespoons avocado oil (or vegetable/canola oil): Perfect for searing without burning, creating a flavorful crust on the ribs.
- 1 batch Cola BBQ Sauce: The star of the dish, combining cola’s effervescence with smoky BBQ spices for an unforgettable sauce.
How to Make Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cola BBQ Sauce
Start by making your cola BBQ sauce, which sets this recipe apart. Its blend of sweet, tangy, and smoky notes will soak into each rib, creating a rich glaze. After preparing the sauce, set it aside to cool while you prep the meat, so it’s ready for the braising stage.
Step 2: Season and Rest the Ribs
Generously season your short ribs all over with kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper. This simple step is important because it brings out layers of flavor and helps the meat retain moisture during cooking. Allow the ribs to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes—this helps them cook more evenly and speeds up the searing process.
Step 3: Sear the Ribs to Lock in Flavor
Next, preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C) and heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs in batches, ensuring each side turns a deep golden brown. This step is where flavor builds as the caramelization creates a savory crust that will intensify during slow cooking. Once seared, transfer the ribs to an oven-safe baking dish.
Step 4: Braise the Short Ribs Low and Slow
Pour the prepared cola BBQ sauce over the ribs, making sure each piece is generously coated. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap moisture and braise the ribs for 3 hours. This slow cooking breaks down connective tissue, turning tough beef into tender perfection. After 3 hours, remove the foil and cook uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This final phase allows the sauce to thicken and develop a slightly crisp, sticky top layer that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
How to Serve Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
Garnishes
The perfect finishing touch to your ribs can be as simple as a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions. These bright herbs add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the dish beautifully. For a bit of extra zest, try a few dashes of chili flakes to complement the smoky sweetness if you enjoy a little heat!
Side Dishes
Because these Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe packs so much flavor and tenderness, pairing them with comforting and classic sides is a wonderful choice. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or a crunchy coleslaw work wonderfully. They soak up the luscious sauce perfectly, making every bite harmonious and deeply satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to take your presentation up a notch? Serve the ribs over a bed of garlic-infused mashed cauliflower for a low-carb option or stack sliced ribs on soft sandwich buns for an unforgettable BBQ slider experience. A drizzle of extra cola BBQ sauce across the plate or a side ramekin for dipping adds flair and invites everyone to indulge in more saucy goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover ribs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to keep the sauce with the ribs to maintain moisture and flavor. These ribs often taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing
You can freeze the ribs and sauce together for up to 3 months. Just let the ribs cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to keep their juicy texture intact.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the ribs slowly in a covered dish in a 300°F (150°C) oven or simmer gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or extra BBQ sauce. This prevents drying out and helps refresh that irresistible saucy glaze we all love.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in short ribs instead of boneless?
Absolutely! Bone-in ribs add even more flavor during the cooking process, but you may need to increase the braising time slightly. Just adjust as needed until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily.
What kind of cola works best for this recipe?
Classic cola sodas, whether regular or diet, work well. The sweetness helps balance the savory and smoky flavors. Avoid colas with strong citrus notes, as they can alter the flavor profile.
Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes! After searing the ribs, place them in the slow cooker and pour the cola BBQ sauce over. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or until tender. Then finish under the broiler for a few minutes to crisp up the sauce.
Is there a substitute for avocado oil?
You can use any neutral oil with a high smoke point like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed oil. Avoid olive oil for searing due to its lower smoke point and strong flavor.
How do I make the ribs extra tender?
Slow and low cooking is key! Make sure to braise the ribs for the full time recommended, and don’t skip covering them tightly with foil to trap steam, which breaks down connective tissue effectively.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe enough—it’s truly one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The combination of sweet cola and savory beef, along with that tender, juicy texture, creates an unforgettable meal. Roll up your sleeves and dive in; I promise it will be a favorite in your recipe rotation for years to come!
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Print
Juicy Slow-Cooked Cola BBQ Short Ribs Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Juicy Slow-Cooked BBQ Short Ribs recipe features tender, flavorful boneless beef short ribs braised in a homemade cola BBQ sauce. The ribs are first seared to develop a rich crust, then slow-braised in the oven until meltingly tender, with a final crisping step for a delicious caramelized finish. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a hearty sandwich filling.
Ingredients
BBQ Sauce
- 1 batch Cola BBQ Sauce (homemade or store-bought)
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
- Prepare Cola BBQ Sauce: Make the cola BBQ sauce according to your preferred recipe or use a pre-made version. Set aside to cool.
- Season and Rest the Ribs: Generously season the boneless beef short ribs on all sides with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Allow the ribs to rest at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
- Sear the Ribs: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. In batches, sear the short ribs until they are deeply browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and texture. Transfer the browned ribs to an oven-safe baking dish.
- Braise the Short Ribs: Pour the prepared cola BBQ sauce evenly over the ribs, making sure they are thoroughly coated. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil to trap moisture. Place the dish in the preheated oven and braise the ribs for 3 hours, or until the meat is meltingly tender and easily pulls apart.
- Finish Baking: After braising, remove the foil and continue cooking the ribs uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This final step crisps and browns the top for enhanced texture and flavor.
- Serve: Serve the BBQ short ribs immediately. They pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, cornbread, coleslaw, or can be enjoyed between two pieces of bread as a delicious sandwich.
Notes
- For best results, use boneless beef short ribs for even cooking and tender meat.
- Resting the seasoned ribs before searing helps the salt penetrate the meat.
- Ensure the ribs are well coated in BBQ sauce to infuse flavors during braising.
- If preferred, substitute the avocado oil with vegetable or canola oil.
- Leftover ribs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
