Nothing wraps you in comfort like the aroma of beef short ribs slowly braising in a rich, savory sauce. This dish is all about low and slow, letting time and simple ingredients transform tough cuts into melt-in-your-mouth perfection. The creamy herb sauce adds a final touch of luxury, creating a dish that tastes like it came out of a fine dining kitchen but was made in your own home.

Whether you’re preparing for a cozy family dinner or aiming to impress weekend guests, this recipe delivers both elegance and heartiness. Paired with mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, every bite is layered with deep flavor and herbaceous warmth. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself dreaming about it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Slow-Braised Beef Short Ribs with Creamy Herb Sauce

This recipe is a celebration of patience and reward. The beef short ribs become incredibly tender as they cook low and slow in a broth infused with garlic, wine, and aromatic vegetables. And just when you think it can’t get better, a creamy herb sauce comes in to tie everything together with velvety richness.

It’s also versatile. The flavor profile is elevated enough for special occasions but simple enough for a satisfying Sunday dinner. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead meal. The flavor deepens even more after resting overnight.

What Kind of Beef Short Ribs Should I Use?

Bone-in beef short ribs are your best bet for this recipe. They offer deep, beefy flavor and the bones add richness to the braising liquid. Look for ribs with generous marbling, as the fat will render down during the long cooking time and keep the meat juicy.

You could use boneless short ribs in a pinch, but you may sacrifice a bit of flavor and texture. Either way, a proper sear at the beginning is crucial to lock in flavor and set the tone for the braise.

Ingredients for the Slow-Braised Beef Short Ribs with Creamy Herb Sauce

Rich, layered flavor comes from thoughtful ingredient choices. Each item here contributes something essential—from depth and body to brightness and creamy balance.

Beef short ribs (bone-in)
Salt and black pepper
Olive oil
Yellow onions
Carrots
Celery stalks
Garlic cloves
Tomato paste
Red wine
Beef broth
Fresh rosemary and thyme sprigs
Bay leaves
Heavy cream
Dijon mustard
Chopped parsley, chives, or tarragon

These ingredients are layered over time to create a sauce that clings to every forkful of tender meat. The herbs bring freshness, while the wine and broth develop depth.

How To Make the Slow-Braised Beef Short Ribs with Creamy Herb Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Ribs

Season the ribs well with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven and sear the ribs on all sides until deep golden brown. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

In the same pot, sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly caramelized.

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 5 minutes to reduce slightly, then return the ribs to the pot. Add beef broth, herbs, and bay leaves. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Braise Low and Slow

Cover the pot and transfer it to a 300°F (150°C) oven. Braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and nearly falling off the bone.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

Remove the ribs and strain the braising liquid. Return the liquid to the pot and simmer to reduce slightly. Stir in heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and chopped fresh herbs. Let it thicken to your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the creamy herb sauce over the short ribs and serve immediately, ideally with a starchy side to soak up every drop.

How to Serve and Store These Ribs

These slow-braised beef short ribs are the definition of comfort and feed about 4 to 6 people depending on appetite and sides. Serve them hot, generously sauced, over buttery mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even a bed of egg noodles.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat beautifully on the stove over low heat or in the oven. You can also freeze the ribs and sauce separately for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Slow-Braised Beef Short Ribs?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing that complements the richness of the short ribs and soaks up the sauce beautifully.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes add a naturally sweet contrast that rounds out the meal.

Garlic Herb Polenta

A buttery bed of polenta is cozy and ideal for catching every drip of creamy herb sauce.

Buttery Egg Noodles

These add a comforting texture that meshes well with the tender beef.

Sauteed Green Beans

A bright and snappy side that provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

Peppery greens and a citrusy dressing cut through the heaviness perfectly.

Crusty Bread

Sometimes the simplest option is the best—especially when it helps you clean your plate.

Creamy Garlic Mushrooms

A luxurious match for an already decadent main, these bring even more savory depth to the plate.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If this dish hits the spot, here are some other hearty beef meals you’ll fall for:

Try our Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta for a quick weeknight option with big flavor.
Don’t miss the French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole if you’re craving something baked and bubbling.
For a bolder twist, check out Chipotle Steak Recipe (Copycat) for smoky spice and sear.
Or go low-effort with high reward in our Crockpot Steak Bites.
One-pot comfort seekers should explore the Creamy Smothered Chicken with Spinach, Potatoes, and Mushrooms, a reader favorite that checks every box.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms? Swap in white wine? Did you make it ahead and reheat the next day?

I love hearing how others bring their own touch to these dishes. Feel free to drop questions too—let’s make dinner even better together.

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