18 Savory Short Rib Recipes for Cozy Nights

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Written By Lorraine Koller

DIY expert, architect, 20+ years in crafting, home improvement, and interior design.

Cozy nights are made for comfort food, and what’s more comforting than a rich, fall-off-the-bone tender short rib dish? Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and hearty or adventurous and international-inspired, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 savory short rib recipes that will become new favorites on chilly evenings.

From slow-cooked stews to braises with a depth of flavor, these short ribs are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re a fan of bold flavors or subtle nuances, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy, and let’s dive into the world of short rib delights.

Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine

Experience the ultimate comfort food with this classic recipe that combines tender short ribs, rich red wine, and a hint of aromatic spices. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove ribs from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium and add chopped onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Korean BBQ Short Ribs

Savor the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with this mouthwatering short ribs recipe. Marinated in a sweet and spicy mixture, these tender ribs are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, gochugaru, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add the short ribs to the marinade and coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove the ribs from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Transfer the ribs to a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
5. Increase heat to broil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until caramelized.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 2-3 minutes

Slow Cooker Short Rib Stew

Perfect for a chilly evening, this comforting stew is a must-try for short rib lovers. The slow cooker tenderizes the meat to fall-apart perfection, while aromatic vegetables and rich broth add depth of flavor.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs beef short ribs
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
2. Add oil to the slow cooker; brown short ribs in batches (about 3-4 minutes per side).
3. In a separate pot, sauté chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
4. Add cooked vegetables, diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, and browned short ribs to the slow cooker.
5. Cook on Low for 8-10 hours or High for 4-6 hours.

Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (Low) or 4-6 hours (High)

Short Rib Ragu with Pappardelle

Short Rib Ragu with Pappardelle: A hearty Italian-inspired dish that combines tender short ribs with rich tomato sauce and served with wide, flat pappardelle noodles.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 ounces pappardelle noodles

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 10 minutes.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot and bring to a simmer.
7. Cover pot and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until meat is tender.
8. Cook pappardelle noodles according to package instructions. Serve with short rib ragu.

Cooking Time: Approximately 3 hours

Asian-Style Glazed Short Ribs

Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory short ribs recipe, infused with the bold flavors of Asia. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup water

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Add short ribs to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove short ribs from marinade and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Reserve the remaining glaze.
5. Roast short ribs in preheated oven for 30 minutes.
6. Brush reserved glaze over the ribs during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Cook until meat is tender and caramelized, about 2 hours total.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Short Rib Tacos with Pickled Onions

Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this hearty short rib taco recipe, elevated by tangy pickled onions and crunchy fresh cilantro.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for cooking
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Pickled onions (see below)
– Chopped cilantro, for garnish

Pickled Onions:

– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, brown sugar, lime juice, and water.
3. Place short ribs in a large Dutch oven or pot; pour the marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Cook short ribs in the preheated oven for 2 1/2 to 3 hours, or until tender.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with cooked short ribs, pickled onions, and chopped cilantro.

Cooking Time: 4 hours (including marinating time)

Beer-Braised Short Ribs

Beer-Braised Short Ribs Recipe

Savor the fall-off-the-bone tenderness of these slow-cooked short ribs, perfectly infused with the rich flavors of beer and spices.

Ingredients:

– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups dark beer (such as stout or porter)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Add chopped onion to pot and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add beer, beef broth, thyme, and paprika to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.

Short Rib Chili with Beans

This rich and comforting chili is perfect for a chilly evening or a casual gathering with friends. Tender short ribs and creamy beans come together in a flavorful broth, guaranteed to warm your belly and your heart.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce for added heat

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown short ribs in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat, then set aside.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in chili powder, beans, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
5. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to preheated oven.
6. Simmer for 2-1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falling off the bone.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Rosemary and Garlic Short Ribs

Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of short ribs with the savory goodness of rosemary and garlic. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove the ribs and set aside. Add minced garlic and chopped rosemary to the pot; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Add red wine and beef broth to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the short ribs to the pot.
7. Cover and transfer to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.
8. Serve with crusty bread and a side of your choice.

Cooking Time: Approximately 2-3 hours

Short Rib Burgers with Caramelized Onions

These rich and flavorful burgers combine the tender texture of short ribs with the sweet and savory taste of caramelized onions. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs, finely chopped
– 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese, and other toppings of your choice

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine short ribs, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Grill the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked to your liking.
5. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions: Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until deep golden brown.
6. Assemble the burgers by placing a cooked patty on each bun, topping with caramelized onions, lettuce, tomato, cheese, and other desired toppings.

Cooking Time: approximately 30-40 minutes (including caramelize onions)

Short Rib Pot Pie

Short Rib Pot Pie Recipe

This hearty short rib pot pie recipe combines tender fall-off-the-bone short ribs with a rich and creamy filling, all wrapped up in a flaky puff pastry crust. Perfect for a cold winter’s night.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs in batches, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add red wine, broth, carrots, celery, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to pot; cover and simmer for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Roll out puff pastry to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place filled pot pie on top of filling.
7. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.

Cooking Time: 3-4 hours

Smoked Short Ribs with Bourbon Glaze

Smoked Short Ribs with Bourbon Glaze: A rich and tender slow-cooked dish that combines the deep flavors of smoked short ribs with a sweet and tangy bourbon glaze, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory or apple)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat smoker to 225°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, bourbon whiskey, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
4. Place short ribs in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until tender.
5. Brush the bourbon glaze on the short ribs during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 4-5 hours

Short Rib Shepherd’s Pie

Rich and comforting, this classic dish is a perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening. Braised short ribs add depth of flavor and tender texture to the traditional shepherd’s pie.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 celery stalks, sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add red wine, broth, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return short ribs to pot and bring to a boil. Cover and transfer to oven. Braise for 2-1/2 hours.
6. Meanwhile, prepare mashed potatoes according to package instructions.
7. Assemble pie by spreading braised short ribs in a 9×13 inch baking dish, topping with mashed potatoes. Dot with butter.

Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours

Short Rib Stroganoff

A rich and flavorful twist on the classic beef stroganoff recipe, this dish features tender short ribs cooked in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over egg noodles.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 ounces mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown short ribs, then remove from pot.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add mushrooms; cook until tender.
5. Sprinkle flour over mushroom mixture; cook 1 minute.
6. Gradually whisk in broth and cream; bring to a simmer.
7. Return short ribs to pot; cover and transfer to oven.
8. Bake for 2 hours, or until meat is tender.
9. Serve over egg noodles.

Cooking Time: 2 hours

Short Rib Empanadas

Take your empanada game to the next level with these tender and flavorful Short Rib Empanadas, perfect for a cozy dinner or snack. Rich short ribs slow-cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce are wrapped in flaky pastry and baked until golden brown.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb beef short ribs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup vegetable shortening
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook short ribs in a Dutch oven with olive oil, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Wrap empanada dough around cooked short ribs, sealing edges with a fork.
4. Brush tops with beaten egg for glaze.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes (including slow-cooking time)

Short Rib Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs

This hearty Japanese-inspired dish combines tender short ribs, rich pork broth, and springy noodles with the creamy texture of soft-boiled eggs. A perfect comfort food for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 4 cups pork broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– 4 soft-boiled eggs, sliced
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, combine short ribs, pork broth, soy sauce, sake, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
3. Braise for 2-3 hours or until meat is tender.
4. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Slice soft-boiled eggs.
6. To assemble, place cooked noodles in bowls, add short rib pieces, and top with sliced eggs. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (braising time) + 10 minutes (cooking noodles)

Short Rib Bolognese

This rich and comforting pasta dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Braised short ribs add depth of flavor and tender texture to this classic Italian-inspired recipe.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or pappardelle)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. Season short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs until browned, about 5 minutes per side.
4. Remove ribs; add onion and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, basil, and oregano. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2-3 hours or overnight.
8. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Serve with braised short ribs and Parmesan cheese.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (or overnight)

Short Rib Sliders with Horseradish Aioli

These tender short rib sliders are fall-off-the-bone delicious, paired perfectly with a tangy and creamy horseradish aioli.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Horseradish Aioli (see below)

Short Rib Sliders:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs in batches, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, red wine, and thyme. Return browned short ribs to pot.
5. Cover and transfer to preheated oven. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Assemble sliders with braised short ribs and top buns.

Horseradish Aioli:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– Salt to taste

Combine ingredients in a bowl; refrigerate until serving.

Summary

Get ready to cozy up on chilly nights with these 18 savory short rib recipes! From classic braises and stews to global-inspired dishes like Korean BBQ and Asian-style glazes, there’s something for everyone. Try slow-cooked ribs with red wine or beer-braised ribs with a hint of bourbon. For a twist, try using short ribs in tacos, burgers, or empanadas. Or go old-school with hearty shepherd’s pie or stroganoff. Whether you’re a comfort food fanatic or an adventurous eater, these recipes will warm your belly and your heart.

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