Name: Best Braised Beef
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs beef short ribs or chuck roast, cut into large chunks; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 sprigs fresh rosemary; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for serving

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This Best Braised Beef recipe brings together fork-tender beef in a deeply flavored, slow-simmered sauce. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, it pairs well with pasta, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Braised beef is the epitome of comfort food, offering melt-in-your-mouth meat and a rich, savory sauce. This recipe delivers robust flavors with minimal effort, making it ideal for Sunday dinners or make-ahead meals. Its versatility and satisfying nature are sure to please.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Beef short ribs or chuck roast (cut into large chunks)
Olive oil
Onion (chopped)
Carrots (chopped)
Celery (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Tomato paste
Red wine
Beef broth
Crushed tomatoes
Fresh thyme and rosemary
Bay leaves
Salt and pepper
Pasta or mashed potatoes (for serving)

directions

Sear the Beef: Season beef with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil until browned. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: Cook onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
Deglaze: Stir in tomato paste, then add red wine to deglaze the pan.
Simmer: Add beef back to the pot with broth, crushed tomatoes, herbs, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
Braise: Cover and cook in the oven at 325°F for 2.5–3 hours until the beef is tender.
Serve: Remove herbs and bay leaves. Serve with pasta, polenta, or mashed potatoes.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Use Lamb or Pork: Substitute beef with lamb shanks or pork shoulder.
White Wine Option: Use white wine for a lighter braise.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or chipotle for heat.
Add Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms deepen the flavor profile.
Pressure Cooker: Reduce cooking time using a pressure cooker.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven. The dish also freezes well for up to 2 months.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for braising?

Short ribs or chuck roast work best due to their marbling and connective tissue.

Can I skip the wine?

Yes, substitute with more beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity.

Should I strain the sauce?

Optional, but straining can provide a smoother finish.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 8 hours after searing the beef and sautéing the vegetables.

How do I know when the beef is done?

It should fall apart easily when pulled with a fork.

Can I add potatoes directly to the dish?

Yes, add cubed potatoes during the last hour of cooking.

Can I make it a day ahead?

Absolutely. The flavors develop even more after resting.

What kind of wine should I use?

A dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot is ideal.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Simmer uncovered after braising or use a cornstarch slurry.

Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, the alcohol cooks off and leaves behind a rich flavor.

Conclusion

This Best Braised Beef is a soul-warming classic with a deep, satisfying flavor profile. Ideal for relaxed gatherings or a family meal, it’s a dish that comforts with every bite.

Best Braised Beef

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This Best Braised Beef recipe features tender chunks of beef slow-cooked in a rich, savory sauce made with red wine, herbs, and vegetables. It’s a cozy, flavorful dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Braising
Cuisine: American
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
Season beef with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear beef in batches until browned. Remove and set aside.
Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5–7 minutes.
Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes. Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up browned bits.
Return beef to the pot. Add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer.
Cover and transfer to the oven. Braise for 2.5–3 hours or until beef is fork-tender.
Remove herbs and bay leaves. Skim fat from the surface if needed.
Serve hot over pasta, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.