The Ultimate Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe for a Cozy, Flavor-Packed Meal

Introduction

Looking for a hearty, satisfying dinner that delivers restaurant-level taste without the hassle? The Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe is your answer. This slow-cooked favorite combines tender, juicy ribs with rich Mediterranean flavors—perfect for cozy nights or elegant gatherings.

In this post, you’ll discover exactly how to make this deeply flavorful dish using simple ingredients and a foolproof method. Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to impress.

What Makes Braised Beef Short Ribs So Special?

Braised beef short ribs are a comforting classic. The cooking process starts with a hot sear that locks in flavor, followed by a slow simmer in a savory mix of herbs, broth, and aromatics. The result? Incredibly tender meat that falls off the bone and a sauce that’s full of depth.

This Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe adds a Mediterranean spin with olive oil, fresh herbs, and tomatoes—making it both comforting and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple steps: Great for both beginners and experienced home cooks.
One-pot dish: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Mediterranean ingredients: Heart-healthy and full of natural goodness.
Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better the next day.
Perfect for gatherings: A crowd-pleaser with elegant flair.

Key Ingredients and Benefits

Here’s what you’ll need—and why each ingredient shines:

Beef Short Ribs: Rich in flavor and protein, perfect for slow braising.
Olive Oil: A healthy fat and flavor base.
Garlic & Onions: Classic aromatics that add depth and sweetness.
Carrots: Add natural sweetness and texture.
Tomato Paste: Enhances the savory umami profile.
Red Wine or Broth: De-glazes the pan and enriches the sauce.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves bring an earthy Mediterranean aroma.

Tools You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you’ll need:

Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
Tongs for browning meat
Sharp knife for prepping veggies
Wooden spoon for stirring and scraping
Optional: Slow cooker or Instant Pot

Braised Beef Short Ribs Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Ingredients:

4 lbs beef short ribs
2 tbsp olive oil
2 onions, sliced
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine (or more broth)
2 bay leaves
2 sprigs rosemary
2 sprigs thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Prep: Season ribs with salt and pepper. Chop onions, garlic, and carrots.
Sear: In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil and brown the ribs on all sides. Set aside.
Sauté: In the same pot, cook onions, garlic, and carrots until soft.
Deglaze: Add red wine or broth to scrape up browned bits.
Combine: Add tomato paste, herbs, and remaining broth. Stir well.
Braise: Return ribs to the pot. Cover and cook at 325°F (160°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours.
Finish: Remove ribs, skim fat, and simmer sauce until thickened (optional).

Tip: The sauce thickens naturally as it reduces—no cornstarch needed!

Want to save it for later? View or print the full recipe here: Braised Beef Short Ribs

Easy Flavor Variations

Use grape juice instead of wine for a non-alcoholic version
Add smoked paprika for depth or chili flakes for heat
Mix in root vegetables like parsnips or turnips
Use oregano or marjoram if you’re out of thyme or rosemary
Ensure your broth is gluten-free if needed

Serving Ideas

Pair your Braised Beef Short Ribs with:

Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta
Couscous or roasted Mediterranean vegetables
Crusty artisan bread to soak up the sauce
A glass of bold red wine or sparkling lemon water

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

Store in fridge: Up to 4 days in a sealed container
Freeze: For up to 2 months
Reheat: Slowly on the stove or in a low oven for best texture

Bonus: This dish tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld overnight.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes—just sear the meat first, then cook on low for 8 hours.

Can I use boneless short ribs?
Yes, though bone-in adds more flavor to the sauce.

What if I don’t want to use wine?
Use more broth and add a splash of balsamic vinegar.

How do I reduce the fat?
Refrigerate the dish and skim the solidified fat before reheating.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re planning a special occasion or just craving a warm, comforting dinner, this Braised Beef Short Ribs recipe is a must-try. It’s simple to make, full of bold Mediterranean flavors, and guaranteed to leave everyone satisfied.

Try it today and bring the flavors of slow-cooked perfection to your table:
Braised Beef Short Ribs