Get ready for a finger-licking adventure with Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs! These fall-off-the-bone ribs merge the tangy, slightly sweet punch of Carolina barbecue sauce with the deep, savory flavor of slow-cooked beef—made fast in your trusty Instant Pot. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or want to serve Southern comfort in the dead of winter, this recipe delivers classic BBQ flavor with minimal fuss and maximum reward. Let’s make a meal everyone will crave seconds for!
Ingredients You’ll Need
You might be surprised by how just a handful of readily available ingredients transform into something so deeply flavorful. Each item in this lineup shapes the dish’s irresistible texture, color, and Southern personality—don’t skip a thing!
- Beef short ribs (3–4 pounds, bone-in): Rich, meaty, and ideal for soaking up bold BBQ flavors—the bones add luscious depth to the final dish.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sear the ribs to golden perfection, locking in juicy flavor right from the start.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for bringing every layer of flavor to life.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds warmth and a subtle peppery bite.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon, plus ½ teaspoon for sauce): Adds aromatic depth both to the ribs and the sauce.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Provides that classic smoky BBQ note, even before the sauce goes on.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Ensures the ribs stay tender and moist while pressure cooking.
- Large onion, sliced (1): Breaks down beautifully to flavor the cooking liquid and the meat.
- Garlic, smashed (4 cloves): Infuses the whole dish with mellow, sweet savory notes.
- Yellow mustard (½ cup): The star of the Carolina mustard BBQ sauce, provides that signature tang.
- Apple cider vinegar (¼ cup): Sharpens the sauce and brings balance to the sauce’s sweetness.
- Honey (2 tablespoons): Adds natural sweetness and helps the sauce glossy and sticky once it caramelizes.
- Brown sugar (1 tablespoon): Offers a hint of molasses flavor for extra depth.
- Ketchup (1 tablespoon): Rounds out the sauce with a touch of acidity and color.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Lends a subtle umami note to the sauce.
- Cayenne pepper (¼ teaspoon, optional): Use for a subtle heat that can be increased for extra kick.
- Salt and pepper to taste (for sauce): Adjust the sauce at the end to make it just right for your palate.
How to Make Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs
Step 1: Season and Sear the Short Ribs
Start by generously seasoning the beef short ribs with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Don’t be shy—the bold flavors make the meat sing! Turn your Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add olive oil, and, once hot, sear the ribs in batches. Aim for about 2–3 minutes per side so each rib forms a rich, caramelized crust. Set the browned ribs aside—you’ll be returning them to the pot soon.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics & Deglaze
With the ribs resting, add the sliced onion and smashed garlic into the pot. Sauté for about 2–3 minutes, just until softened and fragrant. Pour in the beef broth and use a wooden spoon to loosen any tasty browned bits stuck to the bottom. These little pieces are flavor gold and will blend into the sauce as everything cooks.
Step 3: Pressure Cook
Nestle the short ribs back into the pot, making sure they’re partially submerged in the cozy oniony broth. Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Pressure cook on High for 45 minutes. Let the pressure naturally release for 15 minutes (the ribs will get extra tender), then manually release any remaining pressure. Prepare to be greeted by the incredible aroma of Southern barbecue as you open the lid!
Step 4: Simmer the Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce
While the ribs are bubbling away, whip up the signature Carolina mustard BBQ sauce. In a saucepan, whisk together yellow mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Simmer on low for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce gently thickens. Taste and adjust seasonings if you crave more tang, heat, or sweetness.
Step 5: Sauce, Broil, and Serve
Once the Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are cooked to perfection, carefully transfer them from the Instant Pot to a serving platter. Brush them all over with warm BBQ sauce—don’t be stingy! If you crave sticky, caramelized ribs, pop them under the broiler for 2–3 minutes, watching closely until the sauce bubbles and glistens. Serve hot, with extra sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling.
How to Serve Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs
Garnishes
Give your Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs a pop of color and freshness with classic BBQ garnishes. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or thinly sliced green onions for a vibrant contrast. If you’re feeling zesty, toss on some quick-pickled red onions or a scattering of chopped dill pickles—each adds crispness and zing that makes each bite feel extra special.
Side Dishes
These bold, saucy ribs are begging for classic Southern sidekicks! Coleslaw is a must—its creamy coolness perfectly balances the tangy mustard sauce. Fluffy cornbread, baked beans, or a scoop of potato salad will make the meal complete. For something lighter, serve the ribs alongside simple sautéed greens or a vinegar-based slaw to keep things fresh and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
The beauty of Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs is how fun and adaptable they are to serve. Set up a BBQ platter with ribs piled high alongside ramekins of extra sauce for dipping. Or, shred the tender meat and serve on toasted buns as Southern-style sliders, topped with coleslaw. They also make a dramatic entrance when plated atop creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy grits!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are a dream for meal prep! Let the ribs cool, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay moist and delicious for up to 4 days. Keep any extra sauce separate so the ribs don’t get soggy, and drizzle it on just before reheating.
Freezing
Freeze cooled ribs in portioned, airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Pour a bit of reserved sauce over the meat before freezing to lock in that signature tang. They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months—making them an ideal make-ahead meal for busy weeks or those sudden BBQ cravings.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs gently. Place ribs and a splash of beef broth in a covered baking dish and warm in a 300°F oven until heated through, 20–25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 1-minute bursts, drizzling fresh BBQ sauce on after reheating to liven up the flavors.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe with boneless short ribs?
Absolutely! Boneless short ribs work just as well, though you may want to check for doneness at the 40-minute mark, as they cook slightly faster than bone-in. You’ll still get all the juicy, melt-in-your-mouth goodness with a slightly shorter cook time.
Is the sauce very spicy?
The Carolina mustard BBQ sauce has just a touch of warmth from the optional cayenne, but is mostly tangy and sweet. If you prefer more heat, add more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce to amp things up to your liking.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, and it’s a great idea! The flavor of the Carolina mustard BBQ sauce actually gets even better after a day in the fridge and it will keep well for up to a week. Just bring it to room temperature or warm it slightly before saucing your ribs.
How can I make the ribs extra caramelized?
For ribs with that irresistible sticky, caramelized exterior, always finish them under the broiler after brushing on the sauce. Keep a close eye—they’ll bubble and brown in just 2–3 minutes, caramelizing the sugars and making each bite more flavorful.
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! If your Instant Pot has the capacity, you can double the ingredients without changing the cook time. Just make sure your ribs fit comfortably in the pot and are coated with the cooking liquid for even, tender results.
Final Thoughts
Nothing brings people together like good barbecue, and these Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs are pure Southern comfort. Bold, tangy, and melt-in-your-mouth tender—this recipe is a guaranteed hit whether you’re a BBQ pro or just starting out. Give it a try and let that signature Carolina sauce turn your next meal into a delicious celebration!
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Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Tender beef short ribs cooked in an Instant Pot until fall-apart tender, smothered in a tangy Carolina mustard BBQ sauce. These Instant Pot beef short ribs are perfect for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
Beef Short Ribs:
- 3–4 pounds beef short ribs (bone-in)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed
Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce:
- ½ cup yellow mustard
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season the Short Ribs: Season the short ribs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
- Sear the Short Ribs: Sear the short ribs in batches in the Instant Pot on Sauté mode until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Sauté sliced onion and smashed garlic in the pot for 2–3 minutes. Add beef broth and deglaze the pot.
- Pressure Cook: Return the ribs to the pot, pressure cook on High for 45 minutes, then natural pressure release for 15 minutes.
- Make BBQ Sauce: Whisk together all sauce ingredients, simmer until thickened.
- Finish Ribs: Brush ribs with BBQ sauce, broil if desired.
Notes
- Pair with coleslaw, cornbread, or baked beans.
- Sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to a week.
- Adjust cayenne or add hot sauce for more heat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pressure Cooking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 short rib portion
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
