As the sun begins to set and the crisp evening air settles in, I often find myself craving something that warms both body and soul. There’s truly nothing like the succulent, fall-off-the-bone tenderness of braised short ribs to create that comforting atmosphere at home. The rich aroma of savory beef mingling with a medley of aromatic vegetables and red wine fills the air, inviting everyone to gather around the table.
I stumbled upon this ultimate comfort food recipe during one of those rainy afternoons when I wanted to escape the monotony of fast food. With just a bit of patience, these slow-cooked short ribs transform a humble cut of meat into a luxurious centerpiece that delights the senses. Imagine serving a steaming plate of these bad boys alongside creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread, perfect for soaking up every drop of that velvety, richly flavored sauce. Whether it’s a special family gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, these braised short ribs promise to be the highlight of any meal!
Why are Braised Short Ribs a must-try?
Tender, melt-in-your-mouth goodness: These braised short ribs offer an unbeatable texture that has everyone reaching for seconds.
Rich, savory sauce: Packed with flavor, the sauce is perfect for drenching mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Simple preparation: With minimal effort, you can enjoy a gourmet meal that appears to have taken hours to create.
Crowd-pleasing delight: These ribs are an instant hit at family gatherings, making you the star of the kitchen.
Make-ahead magic: Flavors deepen overnight, ensuring a delicious meal is just a quick reheat away—perfect for busy schedules!
Elevate your dinner game and check out more delicious comfort food recipes for inspiring alternatives!
Braised Short Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
• Beef Short Ribs – Bone-in is recommended for enhanced flavor and richness.
• Olive Oil – Used for searing; helps develop a savory crust on the meat.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust to taste.
For the Veggies
• Onion – Adds sweetness; essential for building the flavor base.
• Carrots – Provides earthiness and sweetness; helps create a balanced sauce.
• Celery – Contributes depth; adds aromatic complexity to the dish.
• Garlic – Enhances flavor with its aromatic qualities; key for richness.
For the Braising Liquid
• Red Wine – Forms the base of the braising liquid; adds deep, fruity notes (substitute with beef broth for a non-alcoholic version).
• Beef Broth – Adds savory depth and moisture; crucial for forming the sauce.
• Tomato Paste – Brings concentrated tanginess; rounds out the overall flavor profile.
• Dried Thyme – Imparts an earthy, herbal note; complements the richness of the meat.
• Bay Leaves – Infuses the cooking liquid with floral bitterness; enhances overall flavor.
For Serving
• Fresh Parsley – For garnish; adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
Enjoy the comforting experience of these braised short ribs perfect for any special occasion or cozy evening at home!
How to Make Braised Short Ribs
-
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This gentle heat is perfect for long, slow cooking that ensures the ribs become tender and flavorful.
-
Sear the Ribs: Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides (about 3–4 minutes each) for a delicious crust. Remove them and set aside.
-
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened (about 5–7 minutes), then stir in minced garlic for an additional minute to enhance the flavor.
-
Add Liquid: Carefully deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Then, add beef broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
-
Braise: Return the ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re immersed in the divine liquid. Cover with a lid and transfer the pot to the preheated oven. Cook for 3 hours or until the meat is fork-tender and falls away from the bone.
-
Serve: Once done, remove the ribs from the pot. Strain the sauce to remove any solids and skim off the fat. Serve the ribs with a generous drizzle of sauce and garnish with fresh parsley for a beautiful finish.
Optional: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to savor every drop of the rich sauce.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Braised Short Ribs are perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts! You can sear the ribs and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, allowing their flavors to develop beautifully. After preparing the braising liquid, simply store the seared ribs and veggies in the fridge, covered tightly. On the day you’re ready to serve, add everything to the Dutch oven, deglaze with wine, and simmer before braising in the oven. This method preserves the rich flavors and ensures that your meal is just as delicious and comforting, with minimal effort on the day of serving. So, without the fuss, savor a melt-in-your-mouth experience any night of the week!
Braised Short Ribs Variations
Feel free to spark your culinary creativity by personalizing these braised short ribs to your taste—your kitchen, your rules!
- Boneless Option: Swap bone-in ribs for boneless ones for a slightly different texture while still enjoying all the flavor.
- Wine Alternatives: Use a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon to experience distinct flavor notes, or substitute with beef broth for a non-alcoholic option.
- Herb Twists: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different aromatic profile that complements the beef.
- Vegetable Additions: Toss in mushrooms or parsnips during the sauté phase for added earthiness and flavor depth.
- Smoky Flavor: Stir in a teaspoon of smoked paprika for an unexpected, smoky twist in your sauce.
- Spicy Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for those who love a little kick with their comfort food.
- Cooking Variation: Try cooking in a slow cooker for a hands-off approach, letting the ribs slow-cook on low for up to 8 hours.
- Thick Sauce: For an even richer sauce, simmer it on the stovetop after braising until it reduces to your desired thickness, enhancing all those delicious flavors.
Expert Tips for Braised Short Ribs
- Sear Properly: Ensure the ribs are well-seared to develop maximum flavor. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as it can lead to steaming instead of browning.
- Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pot after searing. This fond is essential for a richer sauce in your braised short ribs.
- Adjust Seasonings: Always taste the sauce before serving to adjust salt and pepper levels; flavors can mellow during cooking, and you want it perfectly seasoned.
- Thicker Sauce Option: If you desire a thicker sauce, simmer it on the stovetop after braising to reduce the liquid. This will enhance the richness.
- Make Ahead: Braised short ribs actually taste better the next day! Prepare them ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully for even more delicious results.
What to Serve with Braised Short Ribs?
Creating a memorable meal alongside these luxurious short ribs enhances their sumptuous flavors and provides a complete dining experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture and buttery flavor perfectly complement the rich sauce of short ribs, making every bite heavenly.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the delectable sauce, warm, fresh bread adds a delightful crunch and buttery flavor to your plate.
- Sautéed Greens: Lightly sautéed kale or spinach introduces a fresh, vibrant contrast that balances the richness of the ribs while packing a nutritional punch.
- Roasted Carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory notes of the braised short ribs, creating a harmonious flavor profile on your plate.
- Polenta: Creamy polenta serves as a fabulous alternative to potatoes, offering a warm and comforting base that soaks up all the luscious juices.
- Red Wine: A bold Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon echoes the wine used in braising, enhancing the overall dining experience with every sip.
- Garlic Bread: Serve slices of garlic bread for a punch of flavor that enhances the delicious sauce and rounds out the meal.
- Chocolate Dessert: For a sweet finish, a decadent chocolate cake or mousse contrasts beautifully with the savory elements, leaving everyone satisfied.
Storage Tips for Braised Short Ribs
Fridge: Store leftover braised short ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite even more delightful.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ribs in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the ribs in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of beef broth or sauce to keep them moist. They should be heated through in about 15–20 minutes.
Make-Ahead: This dish can be made a day in advance for enhanced flavor. Store in the fridge and simply reheat before serving for a comforting meal anytime.
Braised Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
What type of beef short ribs should I use?
I highly recommend using bone-in short ribs for enhanced flavor and richness. The bones contribute to the depth of the sauce during the slow cooking process. If you prefer a less fatty option, boneless ribs can also work but may not have the same level of richness.
How do I store leftover braised short ribs?
Store any leftover braised short ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld beautifully, often making the leftovers even more delightful. Make sure to cool the dish to room temperature before sealing to maintain quality.
Can I freeze braised short ribs?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled ribs in a well-sealed freezer bag or container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw the ribs overnight in the fridge.
What’s the best way to reheat braised short ribs?
To reheat, place the ribs in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of beef broth or some of the braising sauce to keep them moist. Gently warm for about 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. This method maintains the delicious tenderness of the meat.
Can I make braised short ribs ahead of time?
Yes, you can! This dish can be made a day in advance. The flavors deepen and develop overnight, making it a fantastic make-ahead option for busy days. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving for a comforting meal that feels freshly made.
Are braised short ribs suitable for special diets?
While braised short ribs are generally rich in protein and essential nutrients, they may not be suitable for those on certain diets such as vegetarian or low-fat plans. For those concerned about allergies, check the ingredients in the broth and wine, as some brands may contain allergens.
Melt-in-Your-Mouth Braised Short Ribs for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). This gentle heat is perfect for long, slow cooking that ensures the ribs become tender and flavorful.
- Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the ribs on all sides (about 3–4 minutes each) for a delicious crust. Remove them and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened (about 5–7 minutes), then stir in minced garlic for an additional minute to enhance the flavor.
- Carefully deglaze the pot with red wine, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Then, add beef broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Return the ribs to the pot, ensuring they're immersed in the divine liquid. Cover with a lid and transfer the pot to the preheated oven. Cook for 3 hours or until the meat is fork-tender and falls away from the bone.
- Once done, remove the ribs from the pot. Strain the sauce to remove any solids and skim off the fat. Serve the ribs with a generous drizzle of sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.