Boneless beef ribs are a beloved comfort food, offering rich, deep flavors and melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that makes them hard to resist. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week. With the right ingredients and a few easy steps, you can create a boneless beef ribs recipe that’s both flavorful and effortless.
Why You’ll Love Boneless Beef Ribs Recipe
1. Easy to Prepare: With minimal prep and only a handful of ingredients, this boneless beef ribs recipe is ideal for busy weeknights.
2. Melts in Your Mouth: Thanks to slow cooking, these beef ribs turn out exceptionally tender and flavorful every time.
3. Customizable: You can adjust spices, add sauces, or even switch up the cooking method to match your taste.
4. Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and flavor, these ribs make for a satisfying main course that pleases any crowd.
5. Versatile Serving Options: Pair with mashed potatoes, a salad, or crusty bread for a complete, balanced meal.
Boneless Beef Ribs Recipe Card
Juicy, tender, and packed with flavor, these boneless beef ribs are easy to prepare and perfect for any meal!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 500 per serving
Boneless Beef Ribs Recipe Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of boneless beef ribs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
Boneless Beef Ribs Recipe Instructions:
- Prepare the Meat: Pat the beef ribs dry and season generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme.
- Sear the Ribs: Warm olive oil in a large skillet set to medium-high heat. Sear the beef ribs for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned.
- Slow Cook: Transfer the ribs to a slow cooker or an oven-safe dish. Add the beef broth and pour the BBQ sauce over the ribs.
- Cook Until Tender: Cover and cook on low for 3 hours or until the ribs are tender and juicy.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the ribs from the cooker, allow them to rest for a few minutes, and serve warm with your favorite side dishes.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, marinate the ribs overnight in the seasoning mix.
- Adjust spices to taste; more smoked paprika or garlic powder can add a bolder flavor.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Boneless Beef Ribs: The main star, boneless beef ribs, are usually cut from the chuck or rib area. If boneless ribs aren’t available, you can substitute bone-in ribs; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky, savory depth. Regular paprika works, too, but smoked paprika gives it that unique BBQ flavor.
BBQ Sauce: Use your favorite brand or make a homemade version if you prefer. Adjust the amount for a sweeter or tangier taste.
Beef Broth: Enhances the beef flavor and keeps the ribs moist during cooking. You can substitute it with chicken broth, but beef broth is recommended for a richer taste.
Olive Oil: Used for searing. Substitute with vegetable oil if needed, but olive oil adds a lovely flavor.
How to Make Boneless Beef Ribs Recipe (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Season the Ribs
Start by patting the ribs dry with a paper towel, which helps the seasoning stick and allows a flavorful crust to develop during searing. Generously season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme. Rub the spices thoroughly into the meat to ensure even coating.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs
In a large skillet, warm a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned ribs and cook each side for 2-3 minutes until nicely browned. This step locks in the flavor and gives the ribs a rich, caramelized crust.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Place the seared ribs in your slow cooker or an oven-safe baking dish. Pour the beef broth around the ribs, then drizzle the BBQ sauce over the top. This creates a delicious base that flavors the meat while keeping it tender and juicy.
Step 4: Cook on Low Heat
Place the lid on the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the ribs cook for 3 hours or until they reach your desired level of tenderness. If using an oven, preheat to 300°F (150°C) and cook for the same amount of time.
Step 5: Serve
Carefully remove the ribs from the cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the juices to settle, ensuring maximum flavor.
Expert Tips for Success
1. Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the meat adds a layer of flavor that makes a huge difference.
2. Low and Slow is Key: Cooking on low heat ensures the ribs turn out tender and full of flavor. High heat can make them tough.
3. Taste Before Serving: Sample the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A touch more salt or pepper can enhance the flavor.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Cooker: If doubling the recipe, make sure the ribs have enough space. Crowding them can prevent even cooking.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the ribs to rest after cooking for a juicier and more flavorful result.
Variations and Customizations
For Spicy Ribs: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the seasoning mix for an extra kick.
Honey BBQ Ribs: Mix a tablespoon of honey with the BBQ sauce for a hint of sweetness.
Smoky Flavor Twist: Try adding a drop of liquid smoke to the broth for a subtle smoky taste.
Keto-Friendly Ribs: Skip the BBQ sauce and opt for a sugar-free version, or make your own low-carb BBQ sauce.
Asian-Inspired Ribs: Use soy sauce instead of salt and add a bit of ginger powder for an umami flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
Boneless beef ribs pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Consider serving with:
- Mashed Potatoes: Classic comfort food to soak up the juices.
- Grilled Vegetables: Adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Cornbread: A perfect southern-style accompaniment.
- Rice Pilaf: A lighter option that complements the rich flavors.
- Caesar Salad: Provides a refreshing balance to the hearty ribs.
Related Recipes
Love this boneless beef ribs recipe. Try these other delicious, savory dishes:
- Slow Cooker Pulled Pork – A tender, juicy pork dish packed with flavor.
- BBQ Brisket – Perfect for a family gathering and pairs well with ribs.
- Honey Garlic Chicken Thighs – A sweet and savory favorite that’s equally easy to make.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use bone-in ribs for this recipe?
Yes, you can use bone-in ribs; just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they may take a bit longer to become tender.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
No problem! Use an oven-safe dish and cook at 300°F (150°C) for 3 hours or until tender.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, and the flavors only get better the next day!
What type of BBQ sauce should I use?
Choose your favorite! Smoky, tangy, or sweet BBQ sauces all work well, depending on your preference.
Can I make this recipe spicier?
Yes, add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or crushed red pepper to the seasoning mix for an extra spicy kick.