Imagine the rich, savory aroma of French Onion Short Ribs wafting through your kitchen, filling every corner with a delightful scent that makes your stomach grumble in anticipation. Picture tender, succulent short ribs braised in a luscious onion broth, their deep flavors melding together in perfect harmony. This dish doesn’t just feed your belly; it warms your soul and creates memories with every bite. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.
Now, let me take you down memory lane. I remember the first time I made this recipe for my family during a chilly Sunday dinner. As the ribs simmered, my kitchen transformed into a cozy haven, and when we finally sat down to eat, it felt like a warm hug on a plate. Every forkful was met with happy chatter and satisfied sighs, proving that food truly brings us together.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This French Onion Short Ribs dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners stress-free
- The flavor profile is rich and comforting, with sweet onions and tender meat pairing perfectly
- Visually stunning with its caramelized onions and savory broth, it’s sure to impress guests
- Perfect for cozy family gatherings or special occasions where you want to wow everyone at the table
I’ll never forget my cousin’s reaction when I served this at our holiday gathering—he went back for seconds (and thirds) and declared it his new favorite dish!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Short Ribs: Opt for bone-in short ribs; they add depth of flavor during cooking.
Sweet Onions: Yellow onions work best; they caramelize beautifully for that rich flavor.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth to better control the saltiness of the dish.
Red Wine: A good-quality dry red wine enhances the overall richness of the sauce.
Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs infuse a delightful herbal note into the dish.
Bay Leaves: They add an aromatic quality that elevates the flavor profile significantly.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sear the meat beautifully before braising.
Salt and Pepper: Always season generously to enhance all those amazing flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. Chop the onions thinly so they caramelize evenly while cooking.
Sear the Short Ribs: In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper; sear them until browned on all sides—about 4-5 minutes per side.
Add Onions and Aromatics: Remove short ribs from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add sliced onions; cook until they turn golden brown—around 10-15 minutes—releasing their sweet aroma.
Deglaze with Wine: Pour in red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until reduced by half.
Add Broth and Herbs: Stir in beef broth along with thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Return short ribs to the pot; ensure they’re submerged in liquid.
Braise Until Tender: Cover tightly and cook in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 3 hours or until meat is fork-tender. Your kitchen will smell heavenly!
Indulging in French Onion Short Ribs is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in comfort while creating connections around the dinner table. Enjoy each bite as you savor every moment shared over this delectable dish! For more inspiration, check out this dinner ideas recipe.
You Must Know
- The French Onion Short Ribs are a true flavor explosion!
- They combine the savory depth of caramelized onions with tender, juicy ribs
- Don’t rush the caramelization; it’s key to unlocking all that rich, sweet goodness
- Your kitchen will smell like heaven!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing your short ribs for that delicious crust, then slowly braise them with onions. This sequence ensures maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beef broth for red wine or add herbs like thyme. Each tweak can personalize your French Onion Short Ribs experience!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain tenderness and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect French Onion Short Ribs, ensure you brown the meat well for deep flavor
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant touch, and always let the dish rest before serving for optimal juiciness
- Letting flavors meld overnight enhances taste significantly!
The first time I made French Onion Short Ribs, my friends were convinced I’d hired a gourmet chef! Their raving reviews and empty plates made me feel like a culinary rockstar.
FAQ
What is the best cut of meat for French Onion Short Ribs?
Flanken-cut short ribs work wonderfully due to their marbling and tenderness when cooked.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! Preparing it a day ahead allows flavors to deepen beautifully and saves time.
How do I know when the ribs are fully cooked?
The meat should be fork-tender and easily pull away from the bone when done cooking.

French Onion Short Ribs
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
French Onion Short Ribs is a warm and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of caramelized onions and tender, juicy short ribs. Braised slowly in a savory broth with herbs, this recipe is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. Each bite is a delightful experience that not only satisfies hunger but also creates cherished memories around the dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs bone-in short ribs
- 3 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by slicing the onions and seasoning the short ribs with salt and pepper.
- In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned (about 4-5 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.
- Add sliced onions to the pot and cook until golden brown (10-15 minutes).
- Deglaze with red wine, scraping any bits from the bottom of the pot. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Return short ribs to the pot, ensuring they're submerged.
- Cover tightly and braise in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 3 hours or until fork-tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 180 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Braised
- Cuisine: French
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 rib (200g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider marinating the short ribs overnight in red wine. You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth for a lighter flavor.