How to Cook Perfectly Tender, Fall-Off-the-Bone Short Ribs in the Oven

Short ribs are a rich and flavorful cut of beef, and when cooked properly, they become tender, juicy, and fall-off-the-bone delicious. Oven-braising is one of the best methods to achieve this, as it slowly cooks the meat in a savory liquid, allowing the flavors to meld while breaking down tough connective tissue. This recipe is perfect for a hearty dinner that impresses family and friends.

Ingredients

• 4 pounds (1.8 kg) beef short ribs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh rosemary or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Preheat and Season

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. Season the short ribs generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.

Step 2: Sear the Short Ribs

1. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the short ribs for 3–4 minutes per side until browned.
3. Remove the ribs and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to enhance its flavor.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Herbs

1. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release browned bits.
2. Add rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.

Step 5: Braise the Short Ribs

1. Return the seared short ribs to the skillet, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
2. Cover the skillet or Dutch oven with a lid.
3. Transfer to the preheated oven and braise for 2.5–3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone easily.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the short ribs from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes.
2. Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta.
3. Spoon the flavorful braising liquid over the ribs for extra richness.

Tips for Perfect Oven-Braised Short Ribs

• Searing the ribs first adds depth of flavor to the braising liquid.
• Low and slow cooking ensures the meat becomes tender and juicy.
• For a thicker sauce, reduce the braising liquid on the stovetop after removing the ribs.

These oven-braised short ribs are rich, succulent, and packed with flavor. With minimal hands-on time and maximum taste, they make a comforting, impressive meal for any occasion.