Ultimate Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe for Perfect Cozy Dinners

Posted on October 26, 2025

braised beef short ribs - featured image

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of slow-cooked, tender beef short ribs filling the kitchen on a chilly evening. These Ultimate Braised Beef Short Ribs are the kind of comfort food that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I first made this recipe during a family gathering, and let me tell you, it was an instant hit! Everyone from my picky little nephew to my foodie friends couldn’t stop raving about the rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture and the flavorful sauce that practically begged to be soaked up with crusty bread. If you’re looking for a dish to impress or simply want to treat yourself, this recipe is the one.

What makes these braised beef short ribs so special is the combination of simple ingredients that work together to create a dish that tastes gourmet but doesn’t require fancy techniques. The slow cooking process transforms humble beef short ribs into a luscious, fork-tender masterpiece, while the braising liquid develops into a thick, savory sauce that coats each bite. Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or even a side of roasted veggies, and you’ve got yourself the ultimate cozy dinner.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a meal that will warm your soul, this recipe is your perfect go-to. I’ve tested it countless times, made small tweaks to get the flavors just right, and even tried different wine pairings—it’s foolproof and worth every second of effort. Let’s dive into the details—you’ll want to make this again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and Flavorful: The slow braising process ensures every bite is infused with deep, savory flavors.
Perfectly Tender Meat: The beef short ribs practically fall off the bone and melt in your mouth.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need anything fancy—just a handful of pantry staples and a good bottle of red wine.
Impressive for Guests: This dish looks and tastes like something straight out of a fine dining restaurant.
Cozy Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly nights, family dinners, or when you need a little extra warmth in your life.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance of flavors. The beef short ribs are seasoned and seared to perfection, creating a deep caramelization that adds complexity to the dish. The braising liquid, made with wine, beef broth, garlic, and herbs, turns into a velvety sauce that’s practically drinkable. Plus, it’s versatile—pair it with a variety of sides and it’ll shine every time.

Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to build incredible flavor. Most of these are pantry staples, so you might already have them on hand!

Beef Short Ribs: About 3 pounds, bone-in. Look for meaty ribs with good marbling.
Salt and Black Pepper: To season the meat and bring out its natural flavors.
Olive Oil: For searing the ribs. You can substitute with vegetable oil if needed.
Yellow Onion: Diced finely for a sweet and savory base.
Carrots: Two medium carrots, chopped into bite-sized pieces (adds a natural sweetness).
Celery: Two stalks, sliced thinly.
Garlic: Four cloves, minced (don’t skip this—it’s a flavor powerhouse!).
Tomato Paste: Two tablespoons, for a rich, concentrated tomato flavor.
Red Wine: One cup (choose a dry red wine—Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot works beautifully).
Beef Broth: Two cups, preferably low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
Fresh Thyme: A few sprigs, or substitute with 1 teaspoon dried thyme.
Bay Leaves: Two, for a subtle herbal note.

Feel free to customize the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. For example, you can swap the wine for grape juice or use chicken broth instead of beef broth if needed.

Equipment Needed

Large Dutch Oven: Perfect for searing and braising. If you don’t have one, a heavy-bottomed pot works too.
Tongs: For flipping the ribs while searing.
Wooden Spoon: To stir the braising liquid and scrape up browned bits.
Fine Mesh Strainer: Optional, for straining the sauce to make it extra smooth.

If you’re new to braising, don’t worry—this recipe is forgiving. You don’t need fancy tools, just a sturdy pot and some patience!

Preparation Method

Season the ribs: Generously sprinkle salt and pepper on all sides of the beef short ribs.
Sear the meat: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ribs in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the vegetables: Reduce heat to medium and add diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes or until softened. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes.
Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine and scrape the browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for 3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Add the broth and herbs: Stir in beef broth, fresh thyme, and bay leaves. Return the ribs to the pot, making sure they’re submerged in the liquid.
Braise: Cover the pot and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Cook for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are fork-tender.
Finish the sauce: Remove the ribs from the pot and strain the liquid if desired. Simmer the sauce on the stovetop for 5-10 minutes to thicken.
Serve: Plate the ribs and pour the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t rush the searing: Browning the ribs develops flavor, so take your time with this step.
Choose the right wine: Use a dry red wine for depth. Avoid sweet wines as they can overpower the dish.
Keep the lid on: Covering the pot traps moisture, ensuring tender meat and a rich sauce.
Troubleshooting: If your sauce seems too thin, simmer uncovered to reduce it. Too thick? Add a splash of broth.

Variations & Adaptations

Low-Carb Option: Serve with cauliflower mash instead of potatoes.
Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but double-check your broth ingredients to ensure no hidden dairy.
Seasonal Twist: Add mushrooms or root vegetables like parsnips for a wintery vibe.

Personally, I’ve added a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a tangy kick—it’s delicious!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these braised beef short ribs hot, paired with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. They also pair beautifully with roasted asparagus or a simple green salad for balance.

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Per serving (approximate):

Calories: 450
Protein: 36g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 10g

Beef short ribs are a great source of protein and iron, making them ideal for those looking to fuel up with a hearty, nutrient-dense meal. Just keep in mind that this dish is indulgent, so enjoy in moderation!

Conclusion

These Ultimate Braised Beef Short Ribs are the epitome of cozy comfort food—perfect for impressing guests, treating your family, or spoiling yourself. I love how the slow cooking transforms simple ingredients into a deep, rich, and satisfying dish that feels like a special occasion every time. Have fun customizing it to suit your preferences, and don’t forget to share your results with me in the comments below. Let’s keep the kitchen cozy and full of delicious aromas—you deserve it!

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, braised beef short ribs taste even better the next day! Store them in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best wine to use?

Dry red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work perfectly for this recipe.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure your beef broth and tomato paste are gluten-free brands.

Can I use boneless short ribs?

Yes, but bone-in ribs add extra flavor during cooking. If using boneless, adjust the cooking time slightly.

What sides pair well with braised short ribs?

Mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread are all excellent choices!

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