Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce

The savory depth of slow-braised beef short ribs meets a velvety, herb-infused cream sauce in this decadent dish perfect for any special meal. Each bite is rich with flavor, thanks to the blend of thyme, rosemary, sage, and garlic mingling with the luscious cream and wine reduction. This dish is a showstopper on the table, ideal for gatherings or a luxurious weekend dinner. Whether you serve it with silky mashed potatoes or soft, buttery polenta, the fork-tender beef and aromatic sauce make every bite unforgettable. It’s a classic comfort food recipe, elevated with finesse.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup beef broth

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped

• 1 teaspoon fresh sage, chopped

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).

2. Pat short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper.

3. In a Dutch oven or large oven-safe pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same pot, add onion and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

5. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.

6. Deglaze the pot with white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

7. Add beef broth, cream, mustard, thyme, rosemary, and sage. Stir to combine.

8. Return short ribs to the pot. Cover with lid and braise in the oven for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.

9. Remove from oven. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 3 hours | Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Kcal: 640 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Story Behind Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce

This dish is a true homage to classic comfort food with a sophisticated twist. Braised short ribs have long been a favorite in traditional European and American kitchens, revered for their deep, rich flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture. Originating from rustic countryside cooking where tough cuts of meat were transformed into delicacies through slow braising, short ribs have gained gourmet status in restaurants and modern home kitchens alike.

The addition of a creamy herb sauce elevates this version of the dish to something truly special. By combining timeless braising techniques with indulgent ingredients like heavy cream, Parmesan, and fresh herbs, this recipe bridges the gap between homestyle coziness and fine-dining flair.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

There are countless ways to cook short ribs, but this version has a few key traits that make it extraordinary:

• Unbeatable Tenderness: The low and slow braising method ensures the beef becomes fall-off-the-bone tender, practically melting in your mouth.

• Flavor Depth: Thanks to layers of flavor built from caramelized onions, garlic, a touch of wine, and beef broth, every bite delivers deep, savory notes.

• Luxurious Sauce: The creamy herb sauce isn’t just an afterthought—it’s what sets this recipe apart. The mix of rosemary, thyme, and sage blended into heavy cream and Parmesan creates a sauce that’s velvety, fragrant, and utterly crave-worthy.

• Flexible Pairings: These short ribs go beautifully with mashed potatoes, polenta, risotto, or crusty bread, making them easy to tailor to your menu or guest preferences.

Nutritional & Practical Benefits

Despite being a rich dish, this recipe can be surprisingly balanced when served with the right sides. The herbs not only add flavor but also deliver health benefits such as improved digestion (sage), anti-inflammatory properties (rosemary), and immune support (thyme).

It’s also a one-pot meal, which makes cleanup much easier than it seems. Once you sear the meat and build the sauce, your oven does most of the work while you can focus on other things—or just relax.

Perfect for Special Occasions

If you’re looking for a dish that feels indulgent but approachable, this is it. Braised short ribs in creamy herb sauce make a beautiful centerpiece for dinner parties, holiday meals, or romantic dinners at home. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it braises is enough to make mouths water well before dinner is served.

What’s more, this recipe is make-ahead friendly. Like most braised dishes, it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Simply reheat gently and serve, making entertaining less stressful.

Tips for Making the Best Braised Short Ribs

Here are a few key tips to ensure you nail this dish every time:

• Don’t Skip the Sear: Browning the short ribs before braising is crucial for building flavor. Take your time with this step.

• Use a Heavy Pot: A Dutch oven is ideal, as it retains and evenly distributes heat.

• Let the Sauce Thicken Naturally: After braising, letting the pot rest before serving allows the sauce to thicken and settle. You can also simmer it briefly on the stovetop if needed.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Dried herbs will work in a pinch, but fresh herbs bring out a brightness and depth that really makes the sauce sing.

• Pair Wisely: Serve with starchy sides that can soak up the sauce—like mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread.

Ingredient Spotlight: Why Each One Matters

• Short Ribs: These cuts are loaded with marbling and connective tissue, which break down during cooking to create rich flavor and tenderness.

• Cream and Parmesan: These give the dish a luxurious mouthfeel and umami that balance the meat’s bold flavor.

• Garlic and Onion: Essential aromatics that add a deep base to the dish.

• White Wine: Adds acidity and complexity. If omitted, a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can provide brightness.

• Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary, Sage): These bring a garden-fresh flavor and aroma that contrast beautifully with the richness of the cream and beef.

Make It Your Own: Variations and Additions

• Mushroom Twist: Add sautéed mushrooms to the sauce for an earthy touch.

• Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for heat.

• Root Vegetables: Add chunks of carrots, parsnips, or turnips to the braise for a complete one-pot meal.

• Red Wine Swap: You can replace white wine with red wine for a deeper, bolder flavor.

What to Serve With Braised Short Ribs

• Mashed Potatoes: Classic and smooth, perfect for soaking up the sauce.

• Polenta: Creamy and mild, it complements the richness without overpowering it.

• Buttered Egg Noodles: A simple base that catches every drop of sauce.

• Steamed Green Beans or Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Add a fresh, crisp contrast to the tender beef.

• Crusty Bread: For those who want to savor every drop of the herb sauce.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm gently in a pot over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

Conclusion

This recipe redefines what it means to enjoy comfort food. While it’s hearty and filling, it also has elegance thanks to the fresh herbs, wine, and creamy finish. It’s a dish that tells a story with every bite—one of tradition, warmth, and refined taste. Whether you’re preparing this for a family gathering, an intimate dinner, or meal prepping something satisfying for the week, these Braised Short Ribs in Creamy Herb Sauce deliver every single time.