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Short ribs are the ultimate comfort food, especially during the summer when you want to combine rich, savory flavors with the smoky essence of outdoor cooking.
Whether grilled, braised, or slow-cooked, short ribs offer an indulgent and flavorful dish that can be paired with a variety of sides or enjoyed on their own.
From tangy BBQ glazes to spicy marinades, summer short rib recipes bring an exciting twist to your grilling sessions.
These recipes promise tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat with a perfect balance of spices, sweetness, and smoky undertones, making them ideal for family dinners or summer cookouts.
Whether you’re a seasoned pitmaster or a first-time griller, there’s a short rib recipe here to satisfy every craving.
28+ Flavorful Summer Short Rib Recipes You’ll Want to Try This Season
Summer short ribs are the perfect choice for a laid-back barbecue or a formal outdoor dinner.
With their rich flavor and tender texture, these recipes will not only satisfy your taste buds but also leave a lasting impression on your guests.
From spicy marinades to sweet glazes, there’s no shortage of ways to prepare this beloved dish.
The versatility of short ribs makes them an ideal candidate for countless variations and flavors, allowing you to make each cookout uniquely yours.
Whether you’re aiming for smoky, sweet, or spicy, you’ll find a recipe to suit your grilling style.
Grilled Short Ribs
Grilled Short Ribs bring a smoky, charred depth to tender, succulent beef, perfect for summer BBQs.
The ribs are marinated with a blend of bold flavors—garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of brown sugar—that infuse the meat with a rich, savory sweetness.
When grilled to perfection, the crispy outer layer contrasts beautifully with the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of the meat.
This dish is a showstopper, ideal for serving as the centerpiece of any outdoor feast or a laid-back dinner with loved ones.
Korean BBQ Short Ribs
Korean BBQ Short Ribs, also known as galbi, offer a tantalizing mix of sweet, savory, and umami flavors.
The beef ribs are marinated in a traditional sauce made with soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and brown sugar, resulting in a deliciously sticky glaze.
As the ribs grill, they develop a caramelized crust, while the inside remains juicy and tender, providing a mouthwatering contrast in every bite.
Perfect for those who love bold, complex flavors, this dish is a fantastic way to impress guests or enjoy a vibrant, Asian-inspired summer meal.
Slow-Cooked Short Ribs
Slow-Cooked Short Ribs are the epitome of comfort food, offering melt-in-your-mouth tenderness that is simply irresistible.
Cooked low and slow in a savory broth with vegetables, herbs, and a hint of wine, these ribs absorb all the rich flavors, becoming incredibly tender and flavorful.
The sauce becomes thick and luscious, perfect for drizzling over the ribs or serving alongside mashed potatoes or rice.
Ideal for a cozy dinner or a more formal occasion, this recipe lets the ribs shine while filling your kitchen with an aromatic, savory fragrance.
BBQ Braised Short Ribs
BBQ Braised Short Ribs bring the best of both worlds—tender, slow-cooked meat with the rich, smoky flavor of barbecue.
The ribs are first seared to develop a deep, caramelized crust, then braised in a tangy barbecue sauce that gives them their signature sweet and smoky flavor.
The braising process allows the ribs to soak up the sauce, resulting in a juicy, melt-in-your-mouth texture that pairs perfectly with cornbread or coleslaw.
This recipe is a perfect choice for a relaxed summer evening, combining the comfort of slow-braised meat with the fun and flavor of BBQ.
Red Wine Short Ribs
Red Wine Short Ribs feature a rich, hearty flavor, perfect for a summer dinner that feels luxurious yet approachable.
The ribs are braised in a deep red wine sauce, along with onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs, which infuse the meat with complex, savory flavors.
The slow braise tenderizes the ribs, making them so tender that they fall off the bone, while the sauce becomes thick and velvety, perfect for pairing with mashed potatoes or polenta.
This dish is ideal for a special occasion or a romantic dinner, delivering a sophisticated yet comforting flavor profile.
Summer Citrus Short Ribs
Summer Citrus Short Ribs offer a refreshing twist on traditional recipes by incorporating bright citrus flavors like orange, lemon, and lime.
The citrus marinade balances the rich, meaty flavor of the short ribs, infusing the meat with a tangy sweetness that complements the savory beef.
As the ribs roast, the citrus zest and juice caramelize, creating a beautifully sticky glaze that bursts with flavor in each tender bite.
This recipe is perfect for a summer cookout or a fresh take on your classic short rib dish, bringing a zesty and vibrant flair to your table.
Smoked Short Ribs
Smoked Short Ribs bring out a deep, smoky richness that enhances the tender beef, making them a standout choice for any BBQ.
The ribs are slowly smoked over wood chips, infusing them with a delicate smoky aroma and flavor that pairs perfectly with a spicy rub.
As the meat cooks, it becomes tender and juicy, with a flavorful crust that adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
These smoked ribs are perfect for summer gatherings, offering a delicious, authentic BBQ experience that will leave your guests craving more.
Charcoal-Grilled Short Ribs
Charcoal-Grilled Short Ribs take on an irresistible smokiness from the hot, open flame, creating a crispy exterior with a tender, juicy interior.
The smoky char from the grill complements the meaty flavor of the ribs, while a simple marinade of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar enhances their savory sweetness.
Grilled to perfection, each bite offers a satisfying combination of textures, from the crunchy edges to the melt-in-your-mouth center.
Ideal for a casual yet flavorful summer meal, these ribs are perfect for serving alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad.
Honey Balsamic Short Ribs
Honey Balsamic Short Ribs offer a unique sweet and tangy flavor profile, with the richness of the short ribs balanced by the boldness of balsamic vinegar.
The honey adds a natural sweetness, while the balsamic vinegar brings depth and acidity, creating a beautifully layered sauce that coats the tender meat.
After slow-cooking, the ribs become incredibly tender, with the glaze caramelizing into a sticky, delicious finish that makes each bite irresistible.
This dish is perfect for a sophisticated yet simple summer dinner, pairing well with roasted potatoes or a garden salad.
Grilled Korean Short Ribs
Grilled Korean Short Ribs are a savory and sweet delight, marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and sugar.
The marinade creates a sticky glaze on the ribs, while the grilling process adds a smoky, charred flavor that enhances the umami taste of the meat.
The tender, juicy beef is perfectly balanced by the crispy, caramelized edges, offering a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser for summer cookouts, bringing bold Korean flavors to your grill for a vibrant, satisfying meal.
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs are a rich, flavorful dish that is perfect for a slow-cooked, comforting summer meal.
The ribs are braised in red wine, with garlic, onions, and thyme, infusing the meat with deep, savory flavors that are balanced by the fruity notes of the wine.
Slow cooking the ribs ensures they are melt-in-your-mouth tender, with the wine sauce thickening into a luxurious, flavorful glaze.
This dish pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, perfect for a hearty summer dinner.
Bourbon BBQ Short Ribs
Bourbon BBQ Short Ribs offer a sweet, smoky, and slightly boozy twist on traditional BBQ ribs, with a rich bourbon-infused sauce.
The bourbon adds a subtle warmth and depth to the BBQ sauce, which caramelizes over the ribs, giving them a sticky, glossy finish.
Grilled to perfection, the ribs are tender and juicy on the inside, with a smoky, charred crust on the outside.
Ideal for summer cookouts, these ribs bring a bold and exciting flavor to the grill, leaving your guests thoroughly impressed.
Maple-Glazed Short Ribs
Maple-Glazed Short Ribs bring a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the deep richness of beef enhanced by the natural sweetness of maple syrup.
The glaze forms a sticky, caramelized coating, giving the ribs a shiny, golden finish, while the tender meat inside remains juicy and flavorful.
As you take a bite, the warmth of the maple syrup pairs beautifully with the savory beef, making for an indulgent and memorable dish.
This recipe is ideal for a cozy summer dinner or special occasion, offering a touch of elegance to your meal with minimal effort.
Citrus-Marinated Short Ribs
Citrus-Marinated Short Ribs offer a zesty twist, with bright orange and lemon flavors infusing the beef and creating a vibrant, tangy contrast to the rich meat.
The citrus marinade tenderizes the meat, while the acidity enhances the natural flavors of the short ribs, creating a refreshing balance.
Grilled to perfection, these ribs have a crispy outer layer and a juicy, flavorful interior, perfect for a summer cookout.
Pair these ribs with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables for a light yet flavorful summer meal.
Spicy BBQ Short Ribs
Spicy BBQ Short Ribs are perfect for those who love a little heat with their summer BBQ.
The smoky BBQ sauce is infused with chili peppers, cayenne, and paprika, giving the ribs a satisfying kick while still allowing the savory flavor of the meat to shine through.
The tender, juicy ribs are complemented by the crispy, slightly charred edges, making each bite a tantalizing combination of heat and flavor.
This recipe is a great choice for a bold, exciting summer meal, best served with a cool and creamy side like coleslaw.
Braised Coffee Short Ribs
Braised Coffee Short Ribs offer a unique depth of flavor, with the richness of dark coffee combining perfectly with tender beef and aromatic herbs.
The coffee creates a savory glaze that coats the ribs, while the slow-braising process ensures the meat becomes meltingly tender and infused with deep flavors.
Each bite has a complex, earthy flavor profile, with hints of chocolate and caramel from the coffee, balanced by the savory meat.
This dish is perfect for a special summer dinner or an indulgent weekend meal, especially when paired with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables.
Whiskey Glazed Short Ribs
Whiskey Glazed Short Ribs are a luxurious and flavorful summer recipe, featuring a rich whiskey sauce with sweet and smoky undertones.
The whiskey adds a bold depth of flavor to the sweet BBQ glaze, while the slow-cooked ribs become incredibly tender and juicy.
As you take a bite, the smoky whiskey flavor lingers on the tongue, enhancing the meat’s natural richness and leaving you craving more.
This recipe is perfect for a festive summer gathering, offering a sophisticated take on classic BBQ ribs with a unique, memorable twist.
Herb-Crusted Short Ribs
Herb-Crusted Short Ribs are a fragrant, flavorful choice, with a seasoning blend of rosemary, thyme, and garlic that coats the meat in a savory, aromatic crust.
The herbs infuse the ribs as they cook, creating a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, juicy meat inside.
The combination of the fresh herbs and the natural beef flavor makes these short ribs a perfect dish for a summer dinner party or family BBQ.
Serve with a light potato salad or grilled asparagus for a balanced, satisfying meal that will impress your guests.
Charred Short Ribs
Charred Short Ribs offer a smoky, deeply flavored crust that contrasts perfectly with the tender, juicy meat inside.
The ribs are seared to develop a crispy outer layer, while the inside remains moist and full of savory goodness.
With a simple seasoning of salt, pepper, and a brush of olive oil, these ribs are perfect for a quick, flavor-packed dinner.
Serve them with a fresh summer salad or roasted vegetables for a light, yet satisfying meal.
Szechuan Short Ribs
Szechuan Short Ribs bring a fiery, bold twist to the classic recipe, with a spicy, flavorful glaze inspired by Szechuan cuisine.
The sauce combines soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns, giving the ribs a unique, tingling heat that tingles on the tongue.
Slow-cooked to perfection, the ribs absorb all the intense flavors, resulting in a juicy, tender texture with a slightly crispy exterior.
This dish is perfect for those craving a spicy kick and is great served with steamed rice or a cool cucumber salad.
Roasted Garlic Short Ribs
Roasted Garlic Short Ribs are a classic comfort food, where the rich flavors of beef are elevated by the sweet, mellow notes of roasted garlic.
The garlic caramelizes in the oven, adding depth to the beef while enhancing the savory richness of the ribs.
The slow roasting process ensures that the meat is perfectly tender and infused with the aromatic garlic, creating a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or as a showstopping dish for guests, these short ribs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or a light green salad.
Smoky Chipotle Short Ribs
Smoky Chipotle Short Ribs bring a smoky, spicy punch to your summer menu, with chipotle peppers adding a depth of flavor and a bit of heat.
The smoky chipotle sauce, combined with honey and lime, creates a sweet and spicy glaze that perfectly complements the meaty, tender ribs.
Grilled to perfection, the ribs develop a caramelized outer layer, while the meat inside remains juicy and full of flavor.
These short ribs are ideal for a barbecue, offering a smoky and spicy contrast to traditional summer dishes like corn on the cob or coleslaw.
Balsamic Honey Short Ribs
Balsamic Honey Short Ribs offer a sweet and tangy twist, with the richness of the beef balanced by a bold balsamic and honey glaze.
The glaze caramelizes as the ribs slow-cook, resulting in a glossy, sticky finish that pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy meat.
The tang of the balsamic vinegar adds an unexpected depth, while the honey brings a light sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
Serve these ribs with a side of grilled vegetables or a light potato salad for a flavorful and well-rounded summer meal.
Grilled Sweet and Sour Short Ribs
Grilled Sweet and Sour Short Ribs offer a perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors, with a glossy glaze that coats the ribs as they cook.
The sweet and sour sauce, made with pineapple, brown sugar, and vinegar, brings a refreshing zing that contrasts beautifully with the rich beef.
The grilling process adds a smoky depth, with a caramelized exterior that gives way to a juicy, flavorful interior.
These ribs are perfect for a summer grill session, offering a tropical twist on the classic barbecue dish.
Spicy Tamarind Short Ribs
Spicy Tamarind Short Ribs combine the tangy, earthy notes of tamarind with a spicy kick from chili peppers, creating a bold and unique flavor.
The ribs are slow-cooked, allowing the tamarind sauce to infuse the meat with its vibrant, sour-sweet profile while the heat from the chili lingers pleasantly.
The rich, tender meat contrasts beautifully with the tangy sauce, making each bite a balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.
These ribs pair wonderfully with coconut rice or a cucumber salad for a refreshing summer meal.
Mustard-Maple Short Ribs
Mustard-Maple Short Ribs are an unexpected yet delightful blend of sweet maple syrup and tangy mustard, creating a unique, flavorful glaze.
The tangy mustard cuts through the sweetness of the maple syrup, while the slow-cooked ribs absorb all the flavors, resulting in tender, juicy meat.
The caramelized glaze creates a sweet, sticky crust on the outside, giving the ribs a delicious contrast in textures.
Ideal for a summer dinner, these ribs are great served with roasted potatoes or grilled corn on the cob for a perfect meal.
Cajun BBQ Short Ribs
Cajun BBQ Short Ribs bring the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning to a classic barbecue rib recipe, offering a savory, smoky experience.
The combination of paprika, cayenne, and garlic creates a fiery rub that infuses the meat, while a tangy BBQ sauce adds sweetness and depth.
Grilled to perfection, the ribs are tender and juicy, with a smoky exterior that gives way to flavorful, well-seasoned meat inside.
These ribs are perfect for a summer cookout, offering a spicy and smoky dish that pairs well with a cooling side like coleslaw.
Garlic-Parmesan Short Ribs
Garlic-Parmesan Short Ribs are a rich and savory twist on the classic, with a buttery garlic sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
The garlic infuses the tender meat, while the Parmesan adds a nutty, umami-rich depth to each bite.
Slow-cooked until the meat is fork-tender, the ribs are topped with a crunchy garlic-parmesan crust that adds a delightful texture.
This dish is perfect for a cozy summer dinner, and it pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh garden salad.
Conclusion
With 28+ summer short rib recipes to choose from, you can never run out of ways to enjoy this delectable cut of meat.
Whether you’re grilling on a hot summer day, braising for a comforting evening meal, or slow-cooking for perfect tenderness, these recipes promise something for everyone.
Embrace the versatility and bold flavors that short ribs bring to the table.
From tender barbecue to rich, flavorful braises, these dishes are sure to elevate your summer dining experience, making every bite as delicious as the last.
