There’s something truly special about braised beef short ribs—tender, fall-off-the-bone meat bathed in a rich, savory sauce that’s packed with deep, comforting flavors. Whether you’re making this for a holiday meal, a cozy dinner, or a special gathering, these ribs bring warmth, nostalgia, and pure indulgence to the table.
This slow-cooked classic is perfect for those who love rich, hearty comfort food. Imagine tender beef ribs, infused with the bold flavors of red wine, garlic, and herbs, slowly braising to perfection. If you’ve never made braised short ribs, this is the perfect recipe to start with!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Melt-in-Your-Mouth Texture – These short ribs braise for hours, resulting in ultra-tender meat.
✔ Incredibly Flavorful – The rich red wine sauce, garlic, and herbs create an unforgettable taste.
✔ Perfect for Special Occasions – Whether it’s the holidays or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish always wows guests.
✔ Make-Ahead Friendly – The flavors only get better overnight, making it ideal for meal prep!
Ingredients You’ll Need
3 lbs beef short ribs 🥩 – Bone-in for maximum flavor.
1 tbsp olive oil – For searing the meat.
1 small onion, diced – Adds a sweet, caramelized depth.
2 carrots, chopped 🥕 – A touch of natural sweetness.
4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄 – Essential for rich, aromatic flavor.
2 tbsp tomato paste 🍅 – Enhances depth and richness.
2 cups red wine 🍷 – Use a dry red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
2 cups beef broth – The base of the braising liquid.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Adds a hint of umami.
1 tsp thyme – Fresh or dried, for a herby balance.
1 tsp rosemary – Complements the beef beautifully.
1 bay leaf – Adds complexity to the sauce.
Salt & pepper – To taste.
How to Make Braised Beef Short Ribs
Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs
Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Season short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the ribs on all sides until deeply browned (about 3-4 minutes per side).
Remove the ribs and set them aside.
Step 2: Build the Braising Base
In the same pot, add onions and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze.
Let the wine simmer for 5 minutes, reducing slightly.
Step 3: Braise the Short Ribs
Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the pot.
Return the seared short ribs to the pot.
Cover and transfer to the oven.
Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours until the ribs are fall-apart tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
Remove the ribs and set them aside.
Strain the sauce and skim off excess fat.
Simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Spoon the rich sauce over the ribs.
Serve with mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread.
Garnish with fresh parsley for extra color.
Tips for the Best Braised Short Ribs
✔ Use Bone-In Short Ribs – They provide extra flavor and tenderness.
✔ Don’t Skip the Sear – Browning the ribs locks in flavor and enhances the final dish.
✔ Choose a Good Wine – A bold red wine deepens the richness of the sauce.
✔ Let It Rest – If possible, let the dish sit overnight—the flavors develop beautifully!
What to Serve with Braised Beef Short Ribs
🥔 Creamy Mashed Potatoes – Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
🥖 Crusty Bread – For dipping into the flavorful braising liquid.
🥗 Simple Green Salad – A fresh contrast to the rich beef.
🌽 Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat.
Final Thoughts
Braised Beef Short Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together rich flavors, tender meat, and a silky sauce that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours (because it has!). Whether you’re reviving a beloved family tradition or making it for the first time, this dish will quickly become a household favorite.
Make these for your next special occasion, and watch everyone go back for seconds. Enjoy! 🥩🍷✨