How Long to Grill Short Ribs for a Flavorful Meal

Grilling short ribs transforms this rich, beefy cut into a smoky, tender delight perfect for barbecues or special dinners. Their bold flavor and juicy texture make them a crowd favorite. Knowing how long to grill short ribs ensures they’re cooked to perfection without drying out.

Short ribs, typically 3-4 inches long, serve 2-4 people per pound. Proper timing and preparation are key to achieving melt-in-your-mouth results. This guide simplifies the process for a delicious outcome.

You’ll find clear steps, practical tips, and a cooking time chart. From marinating to serving, we’ve got you covered. Let’s make your grilled short ribs a hit.

Why Timing Matters for Grilled Short Ribs

Timing is crucial when grilling short ribs. Overcooking makes them tough, while undercooking leaves them chewy. The goal is a caramelized exterior with a tender, juicy interior.

The time to grill short ribs depends on cut size, grill heat, and doneness preference. A meat thermometer ensures accuracy. Let’s explore how to prepare your short ribs for grilling.

Preparation enhances flavor and tenderness. From marinating to preheating the grill, each step matters. Here’s how to set up your short ribs for success.

Preparing Your Short Ribs

Start with fresh or fully thawed short ribs. Thaw frozen ribs in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours per pound. This ensures even cooking and better flavor absorption.

Trim excess fat to prevent flare-ups, but leave some for flavor. Marinate with a mix of soy sauce, garlic, and brown sugar for 2-12 hours. This tenderizes and adds depth to the meat.

Pat the ribs dry before grilling to ensure a good sear. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices like paprika. A dry surface promotes better grill marks and crust.

Choosing the Best Grilling Method

Direct grilling over medium-high heat is ideal for short ribs, creating a seared crust. Indirect grilling suits thicker cuts for slower cooking. Each method affects cooking time differently.

Gas grills offer precise temperature control, while charcoal grills add smoky flavor. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking. We’ll focus on a combination of direct and indirect grilling for tender results.

The grilling method impacts how long to grill short ribs. Let’s dive into the details and exact timing guidelines.

How Long to Grill Short Ribs

The time to grill short ribs is about 3-5 minutes per side over direct medium-high heat (400°F or 204°C) for a 1-inch thick cut, followed by 10-15 minutes over indirect heat. For medium doneness, aim for 135°F internally, totaling 15-25 minutes. Adjust based on thickness and preference.

Grill heat and rib size can slightly affect the time. Use a meat thermometer for precision. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled short ribs.

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Set your grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F (204°C). Preheat for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed. Clean and oil the grates to prevent sticking.

Create a two-zone setup with one side for direct heat and one for indirect. This allows searing and finishing without overcooking. Ensure the grill is hot before starting.

Step 2: Prepare the Ribs for Grilling

Remove short ribs from the marinade and pat dry. Season with salt, pepper, and a light sprinkle of chili powder or cumin. Let them sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes.

Brush lightly with oil to enhance grill marks. Place ribs on a plate for easy transfer. This step ensures even cooking and a flavorful crust.

Step 3: Grill the Short Ribs

Place ribs over direct heat and sear for 3-5 minutes per side. Flip once to achieve clear grill marks. Move to indirect heat if flare-ups occur.

After searing, move ribs to the indirect heat zone. Grill for 10-15 minutes, checking for 135°F (medium) in the thickest part. Close the lid to maintain heat.

Step 4: Rest Before Serving

Remove ribs from the grill and let them rest for 5-10 minutes under loose foil. This locks in juices for tender meat. Use this time to prepare sides or a sauce.

Resting prevents dry ribs and enhances flavor. Slice against the grain or serve whole. A rested rib is juicier and easier to cut.

Cooking Time Chart for Grilled Short Ribs

The table below shows estimated grilling times for short ribs at 400°F based on thickness and doneness. Always confirm with a thermometer.

Tips for Tender, Flavorful Short Ribs

Marinate for at least 2 hours to tenderize the meat. Acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus break down tough fibers. Don’t marinate longer than 12 hours to avoid mushiness.

Use a two-zone grill setup to control heat. Sear over direct heat, then finish over indirect to prevent burning. This ensures a tender, juicy result.

Check the grill’s temperature with a thermometer. Inconsistent heat can extend how long to grill short ribs. Maintain 400°F for best results.

• Marinate well: Enhances flavor and tenderness.
• Use two-zone grilling: Balances searing and cooking.
• Check temperature: Ensures accurate doneness.
• Rest adequately: Locks in juices for better taste.

Avoiding Common Grilling Mistakes

Don’t skip the meat thermometer. Guessing doneness risks undercooking or toughening the ribs. Check for 135°F (medium) in the thickest part.

Avoid high flames that cause charring. Flare-ups burn the exterior while leaving the inside raw. Move ribs to indirect heat if flames get too high.

Don’t slice immediately after grilling. Cutting too soon releases juices, drying the meat. Resting for 5-10 minutes retains moisture and flavor.

Adjusting for Grill Types and Conditions

Gas grills provide steady heat, while charcoal grills vary more. Maintain 400°F for consistent results. Check charcoal grills frequently to ensure stable heat.

In windy or cold weather, cooking times may increase slightly. Shelter the grill to maintain temperature. Monitor the internal temperature closely.

Oil the grates before grilling to prevent sticking. This ensures clean grill marks and easy flipping. Use a high-smoke-point oil like canola.

Serving and Storing Your Grilled Short Ribs

One pound of short ribs serves 2-4 people, depending on portion size. Pair with sides like grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or mashed potatoes. A barbecue sauce or chimichurri adds a flavorful touch.

Slice against the grain for tender pieces or serve whole for a rustic look. Arrange on a platter with garnishes like parsley. Serve warm to highlight the smoky flavor.

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Freeze for up to 3 months for use in tacos, sandwiches, or soups.

Summary

Grilling short ribs is straightforward with the right timing and technique. The time to grill short ribs is 3-5 minutes per side over direct heat, followed by 10-15 minutes over indirect, reaching 135°F for medium. Marinate well, use a thermometer, and rest the ribs for tender results. Follow these steps for a delicious, smoky meal. Your grilled short ribs will impress every guest.

FAQ

How do I know when my short ribs are done on the grill?

Short ribs are done when the thickest part reaches 135°F for medium, checked with a meat thermometer. Start checking after 15 minutes of grilling. Rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Can I grill short ribs at a lower temperature?

Grilling at 350°F increases cooking time by 2-4 minutes per side but keeps ribs juicier. Maintain medium heat for even cooking. Verify doneness with a thermometer.

Should I marinate short ribs before grilling?

Marinating for 2-12 hours tenderizes and adds flavor. Use soy sauce, garlic, and acid like vinegar. Pat dry before grilling to ensure a good sear.

How do I prevent short ribs from sticking to the grill?

Oil the grates with a high-smoke-point oil like canola before grilling. Ensure the grill is fully preheated. Pat ribs dry before placing them on the grates.

Does a charcoal grill affect how long to grill short ribs?

Charcoal grills may vary in heat, potentially adding 2-4 minutes. Maintain 400°F and check doneness early. Ensure the ribs reach 135°F for medium.