Beef short ribs are the culinary equivalent of a warm hug, with their tender meat and rich flavors. Imagine sinking your teeth into succulent beef, enhanced by savory spices and cooked until it’s melt-in-your-mouth perfection. It’s the kind of meal that can make even the grumpiest of guests smile and say, “I love you” through mouthfuls.

Every time I make beef short rib recipes, I’m transported back to family gatherings, where laughter mingles with the incredible aroma wafting from the kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy winter evening or a festive holiday feast, these short ribs steal the show every time. You won’t just taste the love; you’ll feel it in every bite.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This beef short rib recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions
- The deep, complex flavors create an unforgettable dining experience that will impress anyone who tries it
- Plus, the visual appeal of luscious, braised ribs makes any plate look gourmet
- Versatile enough to pair with various sides or serve on its own, this dish is truly a crowd-pleaser!
The first time I served these beef short ribs at a family dinner, my uncle Victor went silent after his first bite. That was an impressive feat for a man who usually has something to say about everything. Eventually, he broke his silence to declare them “the best thing he’d ever tasted,” which is high praise coming from Victor.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Beef Short Ribs: Look for richly marbled ribs; they will become wonderfully tender during cooking.
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Salt and Pepper: Use kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper for seasoning; they enhance flavor beautifully.
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Onions: Sweet onions add depth; slice them thinly to release their natural sweetness.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic goodness; be sure to chop them finely.
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Red Wine: A good quality red wine adds richness; choose one you would enjoy drinking.
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Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium beef broth so you can control the saltiness of your dish.
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Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaves): Fresh thyme offers an earthy note while bay leaves bring subtle complexity.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter for easy access. Chop your onions and garlic finely to maximize their flavor release during cooking.
Season the Ribs: Generously season your beef short ribs with salt and pepper. This step builds a flavorful crust when seared and enhances overall taste.
Sear the Ribs: In a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, add some oil and sear each side of the ribs until they’re beautifully browned. This should take about 4-5 minutes per side.
Add Aromatics and Liquid: Once seared, remove the ribs temporarily. Add chopped onions and garlic to the pot until translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes—before deglazing with red wine.
Braise Away!: Return the ribs to the pot along with beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring it all to a simmer before covering tightly and transferring it into a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C).
Cook Until Tender: Let your beef short ribs cook in that cozy oven for about 3 hours or until fork-tender. The smell will be simply irresistible!
Now you have some tantalizing beef short rib recipes that promise flavor explosions in every bite! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- Beef short rib recipes are a delicious way to embrace rich flavors and tender meat
- Slow cooking ensures the ribs become melt-in-your-mouth tasty, while creative spices can elevate your dish to new heights
- Perfect for cozy gatherings, they pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the beef short ribs until golden brown, then transfer them to a slow cooker with your favorite braising liquid. This creates a depth of flavor that is simply divine.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out traditional seasonings for something unique! Try adding coffee or chocolate for a surprising twist, or use different herbs to match your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover beef short ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfectly tender beef short ribs, always use low heat and give them plenty of time to cook
- Marinating overnight can enhance flavor significantly
- Don’t forget to skim off excess fat before serving for a cleaner taste
I remember the first time I made beef short ribs for my family; they couldn’t stop raving about how tender and flavorful they were! It was one of those moments that made all the cooking mishaps worth it.
FAQ
How long do I need to cook beef short ribs?
Cook beef short ribs for at least 3 hours on low heat for maximum tenderness.
Can I use different cuts of beef?
While short ribs are best, you can use chuck roast as an alternative cut.
What should I serve with beef short ribs?
Pair them with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted seasonal vegetables for a complete meal.
Beef Short Ribs
Beef short ribs are the ultimate comfort food, delivering tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat infused with rich flavors. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings, these braised ribs create an unforgettable culinary experience that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With easy preparation and versatile serving options, this dish is sure to impress!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 medium sweet onions, thinly sliced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Season beef short ribs with salt and pepper.
- In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Sear each side of the ribs until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove from pot.
- Add onions and garlic; sauté until translucent (3-4 minutes). Deglaze with red wine.
- Return ribs to the pot along with beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover tightly and transfer to the oven. Braise for about 3 hours or until fork-tender.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 100mg