Name: French Onion Beef Short: 7 Irresistible Comfort Recipes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: PT-489743H25M18S
Total time: 3 h
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 2 pounds bone-in beef short ribs, trimmed of excess fat; 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups low-sodium beef broth; 1 cup dry red wine (e.g., cabernet or merlot); 4 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and black pepper to taste; Thick slices of French bread, toasted; 1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded

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Introduction

French Onion Beef Short is a delightful fusion of hearty beef short ribs and the classic flavors of French onion soup. This comforting dish combines tender, braised beef with caramelized onions, creating a warm, satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings or special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will surely impress your guests and warm your heart.

Why You’ll Love This French Onion Beef Short

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Here are some reasons to love it:

Rich and savory flavor from tender short ribs.
The sweetness of caramelized onions adds depth.
Perfect for a hearty winter meal.
Easy to adapt into a French onion beef stew or casserole.
Can be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
Ideal for meal prep, making it a breeze to enjoy later.

With its French roots and gluten-free options, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that many will fall in love with.

Ingredients for French Onion Beef Short

Gather these items:

2 pounds bone-in beef short ribs, trimmed of excess fat
4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 cup dry red wine (e.g., cabernet or merlot)
4 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and black pepper to taste
Thick slices of French bread, toasted
1 ½ cups Gruyère cheese, shredded

How to Make French Onion Beef Short Step-by-Step

Step 1: Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs for about 4 minutes per side until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Lower the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the pot. Once melted, add the sliced onions and a pinch of salt. Stir frequently for 25-30 minutes until the onions are deep golden brown and jammy.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the red wine and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Let the wine simmer for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Return the short ribs to the pot. Add the beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 2-2.5 hours, or until the short ribs are fall-apart tender.
Step 5: While the soup is simmering, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the slices of French bread on a baking sheet and toast them until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 6: Remove the short ribs and shred the meat, discarding the bones. Return the meat to the pot and taste for seasoning—add more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 7: Ladle the soup into oven-safe bowls. Top each with a slice of toasted French bread and a generous handful of Gruyère cheese. Place under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden. Serve hot!

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Onion Beef Short

Keep these in mind:

Use a good quality wine for the best flavor.
Caramelize the onions slowly for a deeper, sweeter flavor.
Make sure to taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
For a twist, add mushrooms during the onion caramelization step.
Using a slow cooker? Cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender beef.

Best Ways to Serve French Onion Beef Short

This dish shines on its own but can be paired with:

French Onion Beef Sandwiches: Serve the beef on crusty bread with melted cheese.
Over pasta: A rich sauce complements any noodle.
As a hearty stew: Add more broth for a thinner consistency.

How to Store and Reheat French Onion Beef Short

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed. This is a great meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Onion Beef Short

What’s the secret to perfect French Onion Beef Short?

The key is to caramelize the onions slowly to develop their natural sweetness, enhancing the flavor of the entire dish. Using quality beef ribs will also elevate the taste.

Can I make French Onion Beef Short ahead of time?

Yes! This dish can be made ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Onion Beef Short?

Avoid rushing the caramelization process of the onions. Take your time for depth of flavor. Also, ensure not to overcrowd the pot when searing the beef.

Variations of French Onion Beef Short You Can Try

Here are some tasty twists on the original recipe:

French Onion Beef Stew: Add carrots and potatoes for a hearty stew.
French Onion Beef Casserole: Layer with noodles and cheese for a baked dish.
French Onion Beef with Mushrooms: Include mushrooms for added flavor and texture.