How to Make the Perfect Beef Braised in Red Wine

If you’re looking for an easy yet sophisticated dish like a beef braised in red wine recipe, this is the one. It combines tender beef and bold, complex flavors that will make you feel like you’re eating at a five-star restaurant.

Cooking red wine braised beef might sound fancy, but it’s surprisingly easy and can be made in affordable way. Plus, with a few pantry staples and some patience, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it came straight out of a high-end restaurant. Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Comforting Flavors: The combination of tender beef, red wine, and aromatics creates a dish that’s both bold and cozy.
• Simple Yet Sophisticated: Despite its elegant appearance, this recipe is straightforward enough for beginners.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a family dinner or a celebration, this recipe shines every time.
• Affordable Luxury: Using affordable ingredients, this dish proves you can have gourmet on a budget.

Cost Per Serving

Cooking gourmet meals doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated costs for this recipe (based on average prices):

• Chuck Roast (2.5 lbs): $18.00
• Red Wine (1.5 cups): $5.00 (from a $15 bottle)
• Beef Broth (1 cup): $1.00
• Carrots (1 cup): $0.50
• Celery (1 cup): $0.50
• Onion (1/2 large): $0.75
• Garlic (1 tbsp): $0.25
• Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): $0.25
• Seasonings: $0.50

Total Cost: ~$27.25
Servings: 6
Cost Per Serving: ~$4.54

Affordable, delicious, and impressive—this dish checks all the boxes! For more tips on how to save money while shopping for groceries, check out my article on Budget Friendly Shopping 101: The Ultimate Guide to Groceries on a Budget.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this culinary masterpiece:

• Chuck Roast: The star of the show. Chuck roast becomes incredibly tender when braised in a rich, flavorful red wine sauce, which is why this is one of the best braised beef recipes you can make at home.
• Carrots: Add a touch of natural sweetness and a hearty texture to the dish.
• Celery: Provides a subtle herbal note and contributes to the dish’s aromatic base.
• Onion: Lends a mild sweetness and rounds out the flavor profile.
• Garlic: Adds a robust, earthy flavor that complements the richness of the beef and wine.
• Tomato Paste: Boosts the umami factor and adds a subtle tangy richness.
• Red Wine: The key ingredient that brings bold, complex flavors and helps tenderize the beef.
• Beef Broth: Enhances the savory base of the braising liquid.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings enhance the beef’s natural flavors.
• Minced Onion and Garlic Powder: Bring a savory depth and aromatic quality to the meat.

TIP: This dish is traditionally made with short ribs, but the chuck roast makes it more affordable without compromising on flavor – especially if you’re cooking for a larger group.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep the Roast
   Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with salt, pepper, minced onion, and garlic powder.
2. Sear for Maximum Flavor
   Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until a deep golden brown crust forms, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Veggies
   In the same pot, add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Build the Sauce
   Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the red wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Braise to Perfection
   Return the roast to the pot, ensuring it’s partially submerged in the liquid. Cover and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F. Cook for 2.5–3 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
6. Final Touches
   Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Beef Braised in Red Wine

To get the most flavor from your beef braised in red wine, start by searing the beef. This step is essential, as it creates a rich crust that enhances the overall depth of the dish.

When it comes to the wine, opt for a medium-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot—avoid cooking wine for the best taste.

If you can, make the dish a day ahead. The flavors will meld together, and the beef will be even more tender.

Lastly, if you prefer a thicker sauce, simply simmer the braising liquid after removing the beef. These easy tips will ensure your beef braised in red wine is both flavorful and unforgettable.

Side Dishes to Pair

Pair your beef braised in red wine with these sides for a complete meal:

• Mashed Potatoes: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add a touch of brightness and balance.
• Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up the sauce.

FAQs About Beef Braised in Red Wine

1. Can I use a different cut of beef in this braised beef recipe?
   Yes, this dish is typically made with beef short ribs.
2. What if I don’t cook with wine?
   Substitute with more beef broth and a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth.
3. How do I store leftovers?
   Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
4. Can I make this braised beef in a slow cooker?
   Yes! After searing the beef, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Serve, Savor, and Share

There you have it—a show-stopping beef braised in red wine that’s as comforting as it is impressive. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy enough to make any day of the week. Plus, at just under $5 per serving, it’s proof that gourmet doesn’t have to mean super expensive.

If you try this recipe, let me know in the comments! Don’t forget to share your creations on social media and tag me—I’d love to see how it turned out. Happy cooking!

Red Wine Braised Beef

A comforting and rich dish with tender beef braised in a savory red wine sauce. This easy recipe combines pantry staples for an affordable yet gourmet meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

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Cook Time 3 hours hrs

Course Main Course

Servings 6 servings

Ingredients

  

• 2.5 lb Chuck Roast
• 1 cup Carrots chopped
• 1 cup Celery chopped
• ½ large Onion chopped
• 1 tbsp Garlic minced
• 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
• 1.5 cups Red Wine
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• Salt & Pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Minced Onion
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder

Instructions

 

• Prep the Roast: Pat the chuck roast dry and season generously with salt, pepper, minced onion, and garlic powder.
• Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until golden brown, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté the Veggies: In the same pot, add carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• Build the Sauce: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in red wine and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
• Braise the Beef: Return the roast to the pot. Cover and transfer to a preheated oven at 325°F. Braise for 2.5–3 hours, or until beef is fork-tender.
• Final Touches: Adjust seasoning if needed. Let the roast rest for 10 minutes before serving.