Cozy French Onion Short Rib Stew

If you’re craving comfort food with a touch of French elegance, this Cozy French Onion Short Rib Stew is the ultimate dish. Combining the deep flavors of classic French onion soup with melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, this hearty stew is perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or even an impressive holiday meal.

Why You’ll Love This Stew

• Rich & hearty – the beef short ribs are slow-braised until fork-tender.
• French onion twist – caramelized onions and melted Gruyère bring luxurious flavor.
• Perfect for gatherings – a cozy centerpiece for dinner parties or holidays.
• Make-ahead friendly – tastes even better the next day.

What Is French Onion Short Rib Stew?

It’s a comforting stew that blends the best of French onion soup and classic braised short ribs. The onions are slowly caramelized, then combined with beef, herbs, red wine, and broth for a stew that’s savory, rich, and soul-warming.

Ingredients (Exact)

• 3 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• 1 baguette, sliced and toasted
• 1 ½ cups shredded Gruyère cheese

How to Make Cozy French Onion Short Rib Stew

1. Sear the short ribs – In a Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high. Season ribs with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. Caramelize onions – In the same pot, add sliced onions. Cook slowly over medium heat for 25–30 minutes until deep golden brown. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
3. Deglaze – Stir in red wine, scraping the bottom to release browned bits. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Build the stew – Add beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, bay leaves, and short ribs back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2.5–3 hours, until ribs are tender.
5. Optional thickening – For a heartier stew, whisk flour with a bit of broth and stir into the pot during the last 30 minutes.
6. Cheese topping – Toast baguette slices, top with Gruyère cheese, and broil until bubbly.
7. Serve – Ladle stew into bowls and serve with cheesy bread on the side.

Tips & Variations

• Wine substitute – replace red wine with extra beef broth if preferred.
• Cheese swap – Gruyère is classic, but Swiss or provolone also work.
• Make ahead – stew tastes even richer the next day, perfect for meal prep.
• Slow cooker option – caramelize onions separately, then cook stew on low for 8 hours.

FAQs

Can I freeze French Onion Short Rib Stew?
Yes! Store cooled stew (without the bread topping) in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Do I need bone-in short ribs?
Bone-in ribs add the most flavor, but boneless short ribs can be used.

How do I prevent bitter onions?
Cook low and slow, stirring often – caramelizing takes patience but builds incredible depth of flavor.

Conclusion

This Cozy French Onion Short Rib Stew is the perfect marriage of rich beef stew and indulgent French onion soup. Whether for a Sunday dinner, a holiday spread, or a cozy night in, it’s guaranteed to warm hearts and satisfy cravings.