Get ready for tender, mouthwatering short ribs simmered to perfection! This dish features juicy meat bathed in a rich, creamy herb sauce that makes every bite a delight.
I love serving these short ribs with mashed potatoes. Trust me, the creamy sauce is meant for soaking up all that goodness! You’ll find yourself going back for seconds—maybe thirds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: The star of the dish! Look for well-marbled ribs to ensure tenderness. If you can’t find short ribs, you could use chuck roast, though the cooking time may vary.
Olive Oil: I use extra virgin olive oil for its flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, grapeseed oil or canola oil works well too, especially if you prefer a neutral taste.
Beef Broth: Homemade is great if you have it on hand, but store-bought works just as well. For a lighter version, feel free to use chicken or vegetable broth instead.
Heavy Cream: The key to that luscious sauce! If you’re looking for lighter options, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut cream for a non-dairy option.
Fresh Herbs: Thyme and rosemary add a lot of flavor. If fresh isn’t available, use dried, but scale back to one-third the amount since dried herbs are stronger in flavor.
How Do You Get That Perfectly Caramelized Color on Your Short Ribs?
Achieving the ideal caramelized color on your short ribs is essential for depth of flavor. Here are some helpful tips:
- First, ensure your oil is hot but not smoking before adding the ribs.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; work in batches if necessary to get a good sear.
- Let the ribs sit without moving them for a few minutes to develop a nice crust before flipping.
A bit of patience during this step pays off with that rich, savory flavor!
What’s the Trick to a Creamy Herb Sauce?
Creating a creamy sauce is all about balance and technique. Here’s how to ensure success:
- After removing the ribs, strain the cooking liquid to remove any solids, giving you a smooth base.
- Simmer this liquid gently when adding in cream; high heat can cause it to separate.
- Stir in Dijon mustard for a tangy kick that complements the creaminess, and don’t rush—allow the sauce to thicken slightly for the best texture.
Don’t forget to taste the sauce and adjust for seasoning before serving. Enjoy every creamy bite!
Easy Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
- 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)
- 1 lb mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- Fresh thyme sprigs, for garnish
- Optional: mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 20 minutes of active preparation time, plus 2.5 to 3 hours for braising in the oven. It’s a cozy, warm dish perfect for a special dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare For Cooking:
First things first—preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). While that’s heating up, season those beautiful short ribs generously with salt and black pepper. This is key for flavor!
2. Sear the Short Ribs:
In a large ovenproof pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned short ribs and brown them on all sides until caramelized—this should take about 3–4 minutes per side. Once they’re golden, take them out and set aside; you’re building a flavor base here!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Using the same pot, drop in the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent and golden, which takes about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until it smells amazing.
4. Deglaze with Wine:
Pour in the white wine now, scraping up all those delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom. This is where flavor lives! Let the wine reduce by half—about 5 minutes—before moving on.
5. Add Broth and Herbs:
Next, add the beef broth along with the fresh thyme and rosemary. Put those short ribs back in the pot, cover it up, and pop it in the oven. Braise for about 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and practically falling off the bone!
6. Sauté the Mushrooms:
While your ribs are cooking, let’s get the mushrooms ready. Melt butter in a separate skillet over medium heat and add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté until they’re browned and tender—this should take about 7–8 minutes. Set them aside when done.
7. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Once your ribs are done, carefully take them out of the pot and keep them warm. Strain the remaining liquid into another saucepan, discarding the solids. Bring this liquid to a simmer and stir in the Dijon mustard and heavy cream. Let it cook until it thickens up a bit, around 5 minutes.
8. Combine Everything:
Now, stir in those delicious sautéed mushrooms into the creamy herb sauce. This is where it all comes together beautifully!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, serve those tender short ribs over a bed of mashed potatoes or creamy polenta. Ladle the rich herb sauce over the top and garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for that final touch. Enjoy your warm, cozy meal!
This comforting dish combines rich braised beef with an indulgent herbal cream sauce and earthy mushrooms—perfect for a cozy dinner!
FAQ for Easy Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Absolutely! If short ribs aren’t available, you can substitute with chuck roast. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly; keep simmering until the meat is tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to refresh the sauce.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to use, gently reheat it on the stove and stir in the sautéed mushrooms before serving with the short ribs.
What Can I Serve with Braised Short Ribs?
This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, as they soak up the delicious sauce. You could also serve it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal!
