How Long to Cook Beef Short Ribs in Air Fryer

Are you craving tender, juicy, and flavorful bone-in beef short ribs? Look no further than your trusty air fryer! This versatile kitchen appliance can work wonders when it comes to cooking these delectable ribs. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer means less mess and a quicker cooking time. In this post, we’ll guide you through the process of cooking the perfect bone-in beef short ribs in an air fryer.

Air fryers have become a game-changer for home cooks, offering a faster, cleaner way to achieve crispy, delicious results without the hassle of traditional methods. When it comes to beef short ribs, the air fryer delivers tender meat with a caramelized exterior in a fraction of the time it takes to braise or slow-cook. But how long should you cook them, and what’s the best approach to ensure they’re succulent and flavorful? Let’s dive into the details, covering everything from preparation to serving suggestions, so you can master this dish.

Understanding Beef Short Ribs

Beef short ribs come from the lower portion of the cow’s rib cage, typically the brisket, chuck, or plate areas. They’re known for their rich, beefy flavor and marbled fat, which makes them ideal for cooking methods that break down their connective tissue. There are two main cuts: English-cut, which are thicker (1-2 inches) with meat on top of the bone, and flanken-cut, which are thinner (about ½ inch) and sliced across multiple bones. English-cut ribs are more common for air frying due to their meatier texture, but flanken-cut works well for quicker-cooking recipes like Korean-style galbi.

The key to tender short ribs is reaching an internal temperature of around 205°F, where the collagen breaks down, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth texture. The air fryer’s high heat and circulating air create a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy, making it an excellent tool for this cut.

Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success

Before cooking, proper preparation is crucial. Start by patting the ribs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a crispy crust. If there’s a thick layer of fat, trim it slightly, but leave some for flavor. Removing the silver membrane from the back of the ribs (if present) is also a good idea, as it can be tough and chewy. Use a knife to loosen one end, then pull it off with a paper towel for grip.

Seasoning is where you can get creative. A simple rub of salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika works wonders, or you can opt for a marinade for deeper flavor. For example, a Korean-inspired marinade with soy sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger can elevate the ribs, especially for flanken-cut. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 24 hours in the fridge for maximum flavor. If time is short, even a quick 15-minute marinade can add a punch. Serious Eats offers great insights into marinating techniques for beef ribs.

Cooking Times and Temperatures

The cooking time for beef short ribs in an air fryer depends on the cut, thickness, and whether they’re bone-in or boneless. Here’s a breakdown based on common scenarios:

• English-cut bone-in short ribs (1-2 inches thick): Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 205°F. For larger or thicker ribs, extend to 25 minutes, checking with a meat thermometer.
• Flanken-cut bone-in short ribs (½ inch thick): Preheat to 400°F and cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway. For medium-well, extend to 10 minutes. These cook faster due to their thinness.
• Boneless short ribs (1- inches thick): Preheat to 320°F and cook for 9-10 minutes for medium, or 7-8 minutes for medium-rare. For thicker cuts, add 1-2 minutes.

To ensure even cooking, arrange the ribs in a single layer without overcrowding the basket. If needed, cook in batches. Flipping halfway through promotes even browning. For extra char, brush with barbecue sauce or reserved marinade in the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Pro tip: Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The air fryer’s high heat can vary slightly between models, so internal temperature is the most reliable guide. ThermoWorks makes excellent thermometers for precise cooking.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Here’s a foolproof method for cooking bone-in English-cut beef short ribs in an air fryer:

1. Prep the ribs: Pat dry, trim excess fat, and remove the membrane. Season with a dry rub (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika) or marinate for 30 minutes to overnight.
2. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F for 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
3. Arrange the ribs: Place ribs in a single layer in the basket, bone-side up. Lightly spray with olive oil for extra crispiness.
4. Cook: Air fry for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Check the internal temperature (aim for 205°F). If needed, cook an additional 5 minutes.
5. Rest: Let the ribs rest for 5-10 minutes to redistribute juices before serving.

For flanken-cut ribs, reduce the cooking time to 6-8 minutes at 400°F, following the same steps. For boneless ribs, lower the temperature to 320°F and cook for 7-10 minutes, depending on thickness.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Short Ribs

• Don’t skip the rest: Resting the ribs after cooking ensures juiciness.
• Experiment with flavors: Try a spicy chipotle rub or a sweet-savory Korean marinade to switch things up.
• Avoid overcooking: Check the temperature early to prevent dry ribs. Air fryers cook faster than ovens.
• Reheat smartly: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer beef short ribs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic meal, serve with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables. For a Korean-inspired twist, try them with sticky rice, kimchi, and grilled veggies. A fresh side salad or air fryer broccoli can balance the richness of the ribs. If you’re feeling adventurous, shred leftover rib meat for tacos, sliders, or a hearty beef barley soup.

These air-fried bone-in beef short ribs are incredibly flavorful and tender. The high heat of the air fryer helps to caramelize the meat, resulting in a beautiful crust while keeping the inside moist and juicy. The best part? You can achieve these delicious results in a fraction of the time compared to traditional cooking methods. Now that you know how to cook bone-in beef short ribs in an air fryer, it’s time to get creative with your seasonings. Feel free to experiment with different rubs and spices to create your own unique flavor profiles. Whether you prefer a classic barbecue rub or an Asian-inspired marinade, the air fryer provides the perfect cooking environment for your ribs. So, next time you’re craving a hearty and satisfying meal, reach for your air fryer and whip up some mouthwatering bone-in beef short ribs. Your taste buds will thank you!