There’s something about the aromas that waft through the house when I make Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce that truly sets my heart aflutter. Picture this: it’s a chilly evening, the kind that begs for comfort food, and I’m huddled in my cozy kitchen, stirring, simmering, and savoring every moment. The first time I prepared this dish was for a special gathering with friends, and it was an absolute hit—people were practically licking their plates! Honestly, what’s not to love about tender, succulent beef coated in a rich, creamy sauce, served over fluffy mashed potatoes? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
What makes this recipe even better is how straightforward it is. While it might look fancy enough for a dinner party, I promise it’s approachable—even for those who usually hang out in the takeout lane. Plus, the rave reviews you’ll earn at the dinner table? Totally worth it. So, let me take you through the magic of cooking up these delicious short ribs!
What’s in Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce?
Beef Short Ribs: The star of the show! I prefer bone-in short ribs for the best flavor and tenderness after braising.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the meat to enhance its natural flavor. Season generously!
Olive Oil: This helps to brown the meat beautifully, adding depth and richness to the final dish.
Onion and Garlic: Basic aromatics that create a solid flavor foundation. I love the sweet caramelization of onions blended with garlic’s punch.
Beef Broth: You can use homemade or store-bought, but I always opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness.
Red Wine: A hearty wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot brings richness and balances the flavors wonderfully. Plus, it’s perfect for sipping while you cook!
Worcestershire Sauce: This ingredient adds a unique umami richness that takes the sauce to the next level.
Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Bay Leaf): This fragrant trio infuses the dish with a lovely earthy aroma.
Heavy Cream: The secret weapon for that dreamy, creamy sauce. It’s what makes everything feel indulgent!
Fresh Parsley and Chives: A wonderful contrast to the rich sauce. They add brightness and a pop of color—because we eat with our eyes first, right?
Mushrooms (Cremini or Shiitake): Sautéed until golden brown, they bring a delightful earthy flavor to the sauce.
Mashed Potatoes: What better way to soak up that delicious creamy sauce? Fluffy and buttery, they’re the perfect companion to these ribs.
Is Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce Good for You?
Ah, this is the delicious part (pun intended)! While this dish is undeniably rich and indulgent, let’s break it down.
Heavy Cream: Yes, it adds a lovely creaminess, but it also means this dish is pretty rich in calories and fat. If you’re looking for a lighter version, consider substitutions like Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream, though the flavor won’t be quite the same!
Mushrooms: These low-calorie gems are packed with nutrients, including vitamins D and B, and they’re a great source of antioxidants. Plus, they add texture and earthiness to the dish.
Fresh Herbs: I can’t stress enough how beneficial these are! They’re not just for garnish; they provide a variety of vitamins and anti-inflammatory properties.
Overall, enjoy this dish in moderation; savor every bite, knowing that great flavors can sometimes come with a few extra calories.
Ingredients List
– 4 lbs beef short ribs
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 1 sprig fresh rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/4 cup fresh chives, chopped
– 1 cup mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– Mashed potatoes, for serving
*Serves 4-6 people.*
How to Make Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce?
1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper; don’t be shy!
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, remove them from the pot and set aside.
4. In the same pot, toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any delightful browned bits that stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing those flavors to meld.
6. Now add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and the bay leaf to the pot. Stir everything together nicely.
7. Return the short ribs to the pot, making sure they are submerged in that luxurious liquid. Bring it to a gentle simmer.
8. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Braise for about 2 to 2.5 hours, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Ah, the smell!
9. Once finished, carefully remove the short ribs from the pot. Set them aside for a quick moment.
10. Strain the remaining liquid to filter out the herbs and particles from the sauce, then return that liquid to the pot.
11. Stir in the heavy cream and let it gently simmer over medium heat, allowing it to thicken slightly; about 5-7 minutes of patience pays off wonderfully!
12. In a skillet, sauté the sliced mushrooms over medium heat until they’re all golden brown, around 5-6 minutes.
13. Fold the mushrooms into the creamy sauce along with the chopped parsley and chives for a pop of freshness.
14. Serve those gorgeous braised short ribs over a bed of buttery mashed potatoes, drenching them with that creamy herb sauce. Enjoy each and every bite!
Perfect Pairings and Tips for a Great Meal
Feeling adventurous? Pair these short ribs with some roasted vegetables, polenta, or even a crisp salad for a delightful contrast!
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), they reheat beautifully. You can also make a hearty sandwich with the leftovers piled high on crusty bread with the creamy sauce—heavenly!
So there you have it! My all-time favorite Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce, ready to impress your family, friends, or even just your fabulous self. I’d love to hear your thoughts if you try making this! Enjoy and happy cooking!
