Are you tired of throwing away leftover short ribs after a big family dinner or special occasion? Think again! Short ribs are a culinary goldmine just waiting to be transformed into a variety of delicious dishes. With a little creativity and some clever repurposing, you can turn yesterday’s roast into today’s tasty lunch or tonight’s satisfying supper.
From tacos to risotto, hash to poutine, we’ve gathered 18 mouthwatering recipes that will inspire you to get creative with your leftovers. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and international, we’ve got a short rib recipe to suit your taste.
In this article, we’ll be diving into some of our favorite ways to reimagine leftover short ribs. From simple and satisfying to bold and daring, these recipes will show you that with a little bit of imagination, even the humblest of leftovers can become a culinary masterpiece.
Short Rib Tacos with Pickled Onions
Elevate your taco game with this rich and flavorful recipe that combines tender short ribs, tangy pickled onions, and crunchy textures.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled onions (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: avocado, sour cream, cilantro, queso fresco
Pickled Onions:
– 1 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat lard or oil over medium-high. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add diced onion and cook until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Add garlic, oregano, and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
5. Assemble tacos with braised short ribs, pickled onions, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (braising time)
Short Rib Fried Rice
This hearty fried rice dish combines tender short ribs with a flavorful medley of vegetables and spices, perfect for a comforting meal or satisfying snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked short rib meat (leftover or store-bought)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cooked short rib meat; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cooked rice, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry until combined and heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Short Rib Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Take your grilled cheese game to the next level by combining tender short ribs with melted cheese and crispy bread. This unique sandwich is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked short ribs (slow-cooked or braised)
– 4 slices of artisanal bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh thyme or rosemary for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with shredded cheese, cooked short ribs, and another slice of bread (butter-side up).
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until other side is also toasted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Short Rib Shepherd’s Pie
Rich short ribs and tender vegetables come together in this comforting twist on a classic shepherd’s pie. A perfect dish for a cold winter’s night, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, carrots, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2 hours.
4. Stir in frozen peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and dot with butter.
6. Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Short Rib Ramen Noodle Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful short rib ramen noodle soup recipe, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 2 cups ramen noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine short ribs, chicken broth, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and onion.
3. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until meat is tender.
5. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
6. Add noodles to the pot with the short ribs and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Short Rib Stuffed Bell Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender short ribs with sautéed onions, garlic, and bell peppers for a rich and satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless beef short ribs
– 2 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the short ribs over medium-high heat until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked short ribs, sautéed onion mixture, breadcrumbs, and grated cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Short Rib Hash with Poached Eggs
Transform tender short ribs into a hearty hash, perfect for a weekend brunch or satisfying dinner. This comforting dish combines rich flavors with the simplicity of poached eggs.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 poached eggs (see cooking instructions below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes). Remove from pot.
4. Add diced onion and cook until caramelized (about 8 minutes).
5. Add garlic, beef broth, and potatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to oven.
6. Braise for 2 hours or overnight.
7. Serve short rib hash topped with poached eggs.
Poaching Eggs:
– Bring water to a simmer in a saucepan.
– Crack an egg into the water.
– Cook for 3-4 minutes or until whites are set and yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
– Remove with a slotted spoon.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (braising time) + 10-15 minutes (poaching eggs)
Short Rib Quesadillas with Avocado Crema
Short Rib Quesadillas with Avocado Crema: A twist on traditional quesadillas, these tender short ribs are wrapped in a crispy tortilla and topped with creamy avocado crema for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and chili powder. Brown in olive oil over medium-high heat, then transfer to a Dutch oven or large baking dish. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Pour in beef broth, cover, and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, toast tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating in the oven for 5 minutes.
5. Assemble quesadillas by placing a few short ribs on each tortilla, then top with diced avocado and squeeze with lime juice.
Cooking Time: 3-1/2 hours (includes braising time)
Short Rib Poutine with Cheese Curds
Elevate the classic poutine by slow-cooking tender short ribs and serving them atop a bed of crispy fries, melted cheese curds, and rich gravy.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup grated cheese curds (such as Oka or similar)
– 2 pounds fries, cooked to desired crispiness
– Gravy (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs on all sides, then transfer to the preheated oven.
4. Cook for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
5. While short ribs cook, warm beef broth and serve with fries and cheese curds.
6. Assemble poutine by placing short ribs on top of fries, followed by a spoonful of gravy and a sprinkle of melted cheese curds.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours (short ribs), plus additional time for fries and cheese curds if necessary.
Short Rib Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this rich and savory combination of tender short ribs, caramelized onions, and melted mozzarella. This hearty pie is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup pizza dough
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook short ribs in a large pot of boiling water until tender, about 2 hours. Let cool.
3. In a large skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Roll out pizza dough and top with marinara sauce, caramelized onions, and shredded mozzarella.
5. Arrange short ribs on top of the cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (short ribs) + 30 minutes (onions) + 15-20 minutes (pizza) = approximately 3 hours
Short Rib Empanadas with Chimichurri
These savory empanadas are filled with tender short ribs and served with a tangy Argentinean-inspired chimichurri sauce. Perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of empanada dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pound beef short ribs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chimichurri sauce (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add short ribs and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Roll out empanada dough into small circles. Place a spoonful of short rib mixture onto the center of each circle.
5. Fold and seal empanadas, using a fork to crimp edges.
6. Brush tops with chimichurri sauce.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Serve with empanadas.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Short Rib Sliders with Sriracha Mayo
These mini burgers pack a punch with fall-off-the-bone tender short ribs, topped with crispy onions and a tangy Sriracha mayo. Perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Sriracha mayo (store-bought or homemade)
– Chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onions until caramelized, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
5. Assemble sliders by spreading a dollop of Sriracha mayo on each bun, topping with a short rib, and finishing with crispy onions. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-3.5 hours (including braising time)
Short Rib Risotto with Mushrooms
This comforting dish combines tender short ribs, creamy Arborio rice, and earthy mushrooms for a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the short ribs in olive oil, then set aside.
3. Cook onion and mushrooms until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add warmed chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add browned short ribs to the risotto and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Short Rib Nachos with Jalapeños
Get ready to elevate your nacho game with tender short ribs, crunchy tortilla chips, and a spicy kick from jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 tortilla chips
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 jalapeños, sliced
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add onion, garlic, and beer to the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Meanwhile, toast tortilla chips in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
7. Assemble nachos by placing toasted chips on a plate, topping with shredded cheese, sliced jalapeños, and optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (short ribs) + 10-15 minutes (tortilla chips)
Short Rib Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This comforting pot pie is a perfect winter warmer, filled with tender short ribs and rich beef broth, topped with a flaky pastry crust. It’s an impressive yet achievable dish for a special occasion or cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brown short ribs in olive oil; transfer to a large Dutch oven.
3. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2 hours.
4. Roll out puff pastry to fit the top of the pot pie.
5. Brush crust with beaten egg; place on top of short ribs.
6. Bake for an additional 30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours, including simmering time.
Short Rib Bolognese Pasta
This rich and comforting pasta dish is a twist on the classic Italian bolognese, featuring tender short ribs slow-cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 ounces pasta of your choice
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown short ribs in olive oil; set aside.
3. Cook onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in the same pan until softened.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to the sauce and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours.
6. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Toss with bolognese sauce and top with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 3 hours, including braising time.
Short Rib Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
A twist on traditional egg rolls, these savory treats combine tender short ribs with crispy wonton wrappers and a sweet and spicy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 8-10 wonton wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (recipe below)
Sweet Chili Sauce:
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil. Add short ribs; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Wrap wonton wrappers with short rib mixture; seal edges with water.
4. Fry egg rolls until golden; drain on paper towels.
5. Serve with Sweet Chili Sauce (mix all ingredients in a bowl).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Short Rib Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Elevate your baked potato game with this comforting recipe that combines tender short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes and crispy bacon.
Ingredients:
– 4 large baking potatoes
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6 slices of cooked bacon, crumbled
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes clean and poke some holes in them with a fork.
3. Rub the short ribs with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Sear in a skillet until browned, then transfer to a baking dish.
4. Bake the short ribs for 30 minutes, or until tender.
5. Meanwhile, bake the potatoes for 45-60 minutes, or until soft.
6. Melt butter on top of each potato. Add mashed garlic and onion, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Top with crumbled bacon, shredded cheese (optional), and a dollop of heavy cream.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of same old leftovers? Look no further! This collection of 18 delicious short rib recipes will breathe new life into your culinary creations. From tacos and fried rice to grilled cheese sandwiches and shepherd’s pie, we’ve got a recipe for every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for something spicy or savory, these creative ideas will inspire you to try something new with your leftover short ribs.
