tender, flavorful short ribs are slow-cooked in a rich tomato and red wine sauce, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Perfect for a cozy dinner, they pair beautifully with creamy polenta or crusty bread.
Prep Time
15 min
Cook Time
1 hr 30 min
Total Time
1 hr 45 min
Difficulty
Hard
Ingredients
1 tablespoon butter
3 slices bacon, chopped
2 pounds beef short ribs, cut into 2 inch pieces
1 ½ teaspoons salt
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
¼ cup red wine
Why This Recipe Is So Easy To Love
Rich, tender, and full of deep flavors that come from slow cooking. The meat becomes so soft it falls off the bone, making every bite satisfying. It’s a comforting meal that brings warmth and a touch of elegance to the table.
Helpful Chef Tips
- Brown the ribs well before braising to develop a rich, caramelized flavor.
- Use a heavy pot or Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution.
- Let the meat rest in the sauce after cooking to absorb more flavor.
Directions
Gently heat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large, heavy pan over medium heat, melt the butter and cook the bacon and short ribs together, stirring often, until everything is nicely browned—this should take about 10 minutes. Once browned, move the ribs and bacon into a baking dish that holds about 2 quarts. Season everything with salt and pepper, then pour in the beef broth, lemon juice, and red wine. Sprinkle the oregano over the top and give it a gentle mix to combine. Cover the dish and pop it into the oven. Let it cook for about 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender enough to pull away from the bone easily. Before serving, skim off any excess fat from the surface for a cleaner taste.
Great Ways To Serve
Serve these tender ribs over creamy polenta or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad adds a fresh balance to the meal.
Reheating And Storage
Allow the ribs to cool completely before storing in an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove to preserve the texture and flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef instead of short ribs?
Yes, you can use chuck roast or beef shanks, but cooking times may vary.
Is it necessary to brown the ribs and bacon before baking?
Yes, browning adds flavor and improves the texture of the meat.
Can I substitute red wine with something else?
You can use more beef broth or grape juice if you prefer no alcohol.
How do I know when the meat is done?
The meat is ready when it’s tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Can I prepare this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the meat first, then cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender.
Should I cover the dish while baking?
Yes, covering helps keep the meat moist and tender during cooking.
How do I reduce the fat before serving?
Skim off the fat from the surface of the cooking liquid with a spoon.
What sides go well with this recipe?
Mashed potatoes, polenta, or roasted vegetables are great choices.
AM
By Ankit Mehta
Home Cooking Guide
Ankit enjoys creating straightforward recipes with clear steps for stress-free cooking at home.
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home cooks made it!
Reviews (8)
4.9 out of 5
★★★★★
8 Ratings
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User Reviews
Elena
★★★★★
Mar 20, 2026
This recipe hit every note for a perfect comfort food dinner. The ribs cooked up beautifully and the sauce was rich without overpowering the beef. I cooked it a bit longer than the recipe suggested just to get that melt-in-your-mouth texture. Definitely a new favorite.
Luis G.
★★★★☆
Feb 28, 2026
Great recipe with bold flavors. I found it a bit rich for a weeknight meal, so I halved the sauce quantities. The meat texture was excellent and my kids actually ate their veggies with it, which is rare! Will adjust for next time.
Yara
★★★★★
Feb 20, 2026
Made this for a chilly weekend, and it was perfect. The ribs were tender with a rich, savory sauce that soaked into every bite. I slightly shortened the braising time but still got great results. My partner was really impressed.
Carla M.
★★★★★
Jan 16, 2026
The flavors came together beautifully, and the meat was incredibly tender. Definitely a new family favorite!
Ahmed
★★★★★
Jan 04, 2026
I cooked this for a weekend dinner and it was a hit. The meat was incredibly tender, and the sauce was rich with Italian herbs. I think next time I’ll add a touch more salt, but otherwise perfect.
Hannah
★★★★★
Dec 27, 2025
This was a big hit with my guests—succulent ribs and a savory sauce that impressed everyone!
Marco
★★★★★
Nov 26, 2025
This recipe was just what I needed for a cozy night in. The ribs turned out tender and flavorful without too much fuss. I followed the instructions closely and was surprised how foolproof it was. Served it with mashed potatoes and got compliments all around!
Fatima
★★★★★
Nov 20, 2025
Cooked this for a small family gathering and it was a hit! The flavors were rich and the meat was so tender it literally fell apart. I slowed down the simmer a bit to keep everything juicy. Will be on my rotation for sure.
Nutrition Facts
Calories550
Fat40 g
Carbs3 g
Protein45 g
Fiber0 g
Sugar1 g
Sodium700 mg
Serving Size: 1 serving
*Nutrition values are estimated and may vary depending on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.