Texas-Style Short Ribs

Cook: 120 min Serves: 5 Cuisine: American

Tender Texas-style short ribs coated in a flavorful tomato-based sauce with chili and spices, perfect for hearty dinners and gatherings, appealing to barbecue and comfort food lovers.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 c. tomato catsup
  • 1/2 c. soy sauce
  • 1/4 c. brown sugar
  • 1/4 c. cider vinegar
  • 2 tsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. Tabasco pepper sauce
  • 3 to 4 lb. beef short ribs
  • 1/4 c. all-purpose flour
  • about 2 Tbsp. vegetable oil
  • 1 large onion

Instructions

  1. Thoroughly combine tomato catsup, soy sauce, brown sugar, cider vinegar, chili powder, and Tabasco pepper sauce; set aside.
  2. Coat the short ribs with all-purpose flour.
  3. Brown the coated ribs on all sides in hot vegetable oil.
  4. Drain off excess fat from the ribs.
  5. Pour the catsup mixture evenly over the ribs.
  6. Sprinkle the chunked onion over the sauce.
  7. Cover and simmer for 2 hours or until the meat is tender, stirring occasionally.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, marinate the short ribs in the sauce overnight before cooking. If you want to reduce sodium, consider low-sodium soy sauce. You can also substitute the Tabasco with your favorite hot sauce for a different heat level. For a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes. This dish can also be made in a slow cooker for maximum tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these flavorful short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of coleslaw adds a refreshing crunch. They pair beautifully with Mother'S Shepherd'S Pie for a hearty meal or can be enjoyed over baked polenta for a comforting twist. Garnish with fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Texas-Style Short Ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove or in the oven until heated through, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Texas-Style Short Ribs contains roughly 468 calories, with 13g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (76% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2455mg per serving (107% of the Daily Value).

468 kcal 23% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 13g 26% DV
Total Fat 39.2g 50% DV
Carbs 21.3g 8% DV
Fiber 4.4g 16% DV
Sugar 12.9g 26% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2455.1mg 100% DV
Potassium 530.7mg 11% DV
Cholesterol 67.4mg 22% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 680.2mcg 76% DV
Vitamin C 0.7mg 1% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 64.8mg 5% DV
Iron 3.7mg 21% DV
Contains Wheat/Gluten Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?

Yes, you can use other cuts like chuck roast or brisket, but cooking times may vary. Ensure the meat is well-marbled for tenderness and flavor. Adjust your cooking time to ensure the meat is fork-tender, which may take longer depending on the cut.

What can I serve with Texas-Style Short Ribs?

These ribs pair well with classic sides like cornbread, green beans, or a simple salad. For a heartier option, serve with Beef Medley Soup for a complete meal. Consider adding pickled jalapeños for an added kick or a side of grilled vegetables for balance.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it overnight. The flavors will meld beautifully. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove. This is a great option for entertaining, allowing you to enjoy more time with your guests.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Beef recipes → All recipes →