When you’re faced with a mountain of tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs from last night’s dinner, it can be tempting to toss them in the fridge and forget about them. But fear not, fellow foodies! With a little creativity, those leftovers can be transformed into a new world of flavors and textures. In this article, we’ll explore 18 mouthwatering recipes that will reinvent your leftover short ribs and leave you wondering why you ever settled for boring old reheated meat in the first place.
From tacos to pasta, pizza to dumplings, these savory short rib creations are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or comforting classics, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, get creative, and turn those leftovers into a culinary masterpiece!
Short Rib Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
Rich and flavorful short ribs meet tangy pickled red onions in this mouthwatering taco recipe. Perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends, these tacos are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled Red Onions (see below)
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish
Pickled Red Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine short ribs, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place the short ribs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 2 1/2 hours, or until tender.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing short ribs into strips and placing onto tortillas. Top with pickled red onions, radishes, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours (short rib cooking time)
Leftover Short Rib Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Transform your leftover short ribs into a decadent grilled cheese sandwich that’s sure to impress. This recipe is perfect for using up those tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs and adding a new twist to the classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded leftover short ribs
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 2 slices artisanal bread (such as brioche or challah)
– 2 slices cheddar cheese (or your preferred melted cheese)
– 1/4 cup caramelized onion jam (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Butter one side of each bread slice.
2. Place one slice, butter-side down, in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Top with shredded short ribs, cheddar cheese, and a spoonful of caramelized onion jam.
4. Add the second bread slice, butter-side up, on top of the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-6 minutes per side, depending on your desired level of crispiness.
Short Rib Fried Rice with Scallions
Transform leftover short ribs into a savory and aromatic fried rice dish, elevated by the freshness of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked short ribs (cooled)
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the cooked short ribs, breaking them up with a spoon as they warm through.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Push the rice mixture to one side of the skillet. Crack in the beaten eggs (if using) and scramble until cooked through.
7. Mix the eggs with the rice mixture.
8. Add the sliced scallions and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the rice is heated through and the scallions are tender.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Short Rib Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
This classic comfort food dish is a staple of British cuisine, featuring tender short ribs slow-cooked in rich gravy and topped with a creamy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– Butter or milk for mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown short ribs in olive oil; remove from pot.
3. Sauté onion and garlic until softened; add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Return short ribs to pot; cover and simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Boil potatoes until tender; mash with butter or milk.
6. Transfer short rib mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish; top with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Short Rib Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
This rich and comforting ramen recipe combines tender short ribs, savory broth, and springy noodles with the added delight of soft-boiled eggs. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– 4 soft-boiled eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Brown in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Cook for 2 hours or until short ribs are tender.
6. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions.
7. Serve with short ribs, soft-boiled eggs, and thinly sliced green onions (if using).
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Short Rib Quesadillas with Monterey Jack Cheese
These rich and savory quesadillas are filled with tender short ribs, melted Monterey Jack cheese, and a hint of spices. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 8 ounces Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, chili powder, and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add short ribs; season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Transfer skillet to the preheated oven and braise for 2 hours or until tender.
6. Assemble quesadillas by placing a few ounces of cooked short ribs onto each tortilla, then top with shredded cheese.
7. Place quesadillas on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes (including braising time)
Short Rib Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines tender short ribs with sweet bell peppers and savory spices, creating a rich and satisfying main course perfect for a cozy dinner. The short ribs add depth of flavor and texture to the dish, while the bell peppers provide a pop of color and freshness.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless beef short ribs
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook short ribs in oil over medium-high heat until browned on all sides. Remove from heat.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked short ribs, onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Short Rib Hash with Crispy Potatoes
A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, and brown sugar to the pot. Stir to combine, then return the short ribs to the pot.
5. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
6. About 30 minutes before serving, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced potatoes in a single layer; cook, undisturbed, until crispy and golden brown, about 10-12 minutes per side.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours (braising) + 10-12 minutes (potatoes)
Short Rib Pizza with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this hearty Short Rib Pizza featuring caramelized onions and rich, fall-off-the-bone short ribs. This unique combination will become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook short ribs in olive oil over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize onions by cooking them in the same skillet over low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness and place on a baking sheet.
5. Top with caramelized onions, short ribs, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and chopped thyme (if using).
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Short Rib Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce
Short Rib Pasta with Garlic Cream Sauce: A rich and comforting dish that combines tender short ribs with a creamy garlic sauce and perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces pasta (such as pappardelle or rigatoni)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat; brown short ribs on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium; add garlic, onion, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Add short ribs back to the pot; cover with lid and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1 cup pasta water.
6. Remove pot from oven; stir in butter and garlic. Add heavy cream and reserved pasta water; bring to a simmer and cook for 2 minutes.
7. Toss cooked pasta with garlic cream sauce and short ribs. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking time: Approximately 3-1/2 hours from start to finish.
Short Rib Empanadas with Chimichurri
This recipe combines the tender fall-apart texture of short ribs with the flaky, buttery pastry of empanadas, all wrapped up in a tangy and herby chimichurri sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Chimichurri sauce (recipe below)
Chimichurri Sauce:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 cup fresh oregano, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large pot, brown the short ribs in olive oil. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add red wine and beef broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours or until tender.
4. Meanwhile, mix flour, salt, and pepper. Add melted butter and beaten egg; stir until dough forms.
5. Roll out dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares.
6. Place a spoonful of short rib mixture onto one half of the square; fold other half over and press edges with fork.
7. Brush tops with egg wash and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Short Rib Sliders with Horseradish Aioli
These tender short ribs are transformed into mouthwatering sliders, paired with a creamy and pungent horseradish aioli. Perfect for game-day gatherings or casual get-togethers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Horseradish aioli (recipe below)
Short Rib Sliders:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and brown sugar.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.
6. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2-3 hours or until tender.
7. Assemble sliders by placing short ribs on hamburger buns.
Horseradish Aioli:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours (including braising time)
Short Rib Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This comforting pot pie is a perfect blend of tender short ribs and flaky pastry, sure to warm hearts and bellies. With minimal prep time and easy assembly, this dish is ideal for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, and corn)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Brown short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, flour, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to the pot and bring to a simmer. Cook 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
7. Fill with short rib mixture and top with mixed vegetables.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours (including prep time)
Short Rib Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce
Elevate your brunch game with this rich and indulgent take on the classic eggs benedict, featuring tender short ribs and a creamy hollandaise sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 English muffins
– 4 eggs, poached
– Hollandaise sauce (recipe below)
Hollandaise Sauce:
– 3 large egg yolks
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/2 cup melted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper, then brown in olive oil in a Dutch oven.
3. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, and thyme. Cover and transfer to preheated oven.
4. Braise for 2 1/2 hours, or until meat is tender.
5. Toast English muffins and top with short ribs, poached eggs, and hollandaise sauce.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours (braising time) + 15 minutes (toasting and assembling)
Short Rib Risotto with Parmesan Cheese
This hearty risotto is a perfect comfort food dish, packed with tender short ribs and rich parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 cups Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, 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. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, short ribs should be tender.
6. Stir in butter, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Short Rib Nachos with Jalapeños and Cheese
Transform traditional nachos into a hearty, flavorful dish by incorporating tender short ribs and spicy jalapeños. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1/2 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1 can (16 ounces) nacho cheese sauce
– 4 jalapeños, sliced
– Optional: cilantro, sour cream, and diced onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine short ribs, beef broth, tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
3. Meanwhile, warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Arrange tortillas on a baking sheet, topped with short ribs, jalapeños, and nacho cheese sauce. Bake at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Garnish with cilantro, sour cream, and diced onions, if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (short rib cooking time) + 10-12 minutes (nacho assembly)
Short Rib Dumplings with Soy Dipping Sauce
Short ribs meet tender dumpling wrappers in this comforting and flavorful Asian-inspired dish. This recipe yields a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for a cold evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
For the dumplings:
– 1 pound short ribs
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the dipping sauce:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the short ribs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, cook the short ribs in sesame oil until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Wrap the cooked short ribs in dumpling wrappers, sealing edges with water or egg wash.
5. Pan-fry the dumplings until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side.
6. Serve the dumplings hot with soy dipping sauce (mix all ingredients together and adjust to taste).
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes.
Short Rib Chili with Beans and Cornbread
A hearty, comforting chili recipe that combines tender short ribs, creamy beans, and a hint of sweetness from the cornbread. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked kidney beans
– 8-inch cornbread mix
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, and paprika.
3. Brown short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then transfer to the oven for 2 hours.
4. In a separate pot, combine beef broth, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Add cooked kidney beans and browned short ribs to the pot. Simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
6. Prepare cornbread mix according to package instructions.
Cooking Time: 4 hours (including oven time)
Summary
Transform leftover short ribs into a delicious array of dishes with these creative recipes. From tacos to quesadillas, and from pasta to pizza, there’s something for everyone. Get inspired with Short Rib Tacos with Pickled Red Onions, Leftover Short Rib Grilled Cheese Sandwich, or Short Rib Fried Rice with Scallions. Or try your hand at more unique dishes like Short Rib Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs or Short Rib Stuffed Bell Peppers. Whatever your taste buds crave, these 18 savory short rib recipes are sure to reinvent the way you think about leftovers.