Create the Best Short Rib Ragu for a Delicious Dinner Tonight!

Short Rib Ragu is a hearty, slow-cooked dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The tender, flavorful beef paired with a rich tomato-based sauce creates a truly satisfying meal. When accompanied by creamy Parmesan mashed potatoes, this dish becomes a symphony of textures and tastes that will delight your senses. Prepare to be transported to a cozy, Italian-inspired evening as you indulge in this irresistible combination.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for the Short Rib Ragu and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

For the Short Rib Ragu:

• 3-4 pounds beef short ribs (bone-in)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

For the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Techniques for the Tender and Flavorful Short Rib Ragu

Short Rib Ragu is all about the low and slow cooking method, known as braising. This technique involves searing the meat to lock in the flavors, then slowly simmering it in a flavorful liquid until the meat becomes incredibly tender and falls off the bone. The key to a successful Short Rib Ragu is to build layers of flavor by sautéing the aromatic vegetables, deglazing the pan with the tomato and broth mixture, and allowing the sauce to simmer and concentrate over time.

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Short Rib Ragu

Let’s dive into the step-by-step process for creating the mouthwatering Short Rib Ragu:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
2. Sear the Short Ribs: Heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them on all sides until they are beautifully browned. Remove the seared ribs and set them aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook these aromatics until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Build the Sauce: Stir in the tomato paste, followed by the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Return the seared short ribs to the pot and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Braise in the Oven: Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Let the Short Rib Ragu braise for 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is incredibly tender and falling off the bone.

Preparing the Creamy Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

While the Short Rib Ragu is braising in the oven, it’s the perfect time to prepare the complementary Parmesan Mashed Potatoes. Russet potatoes are the ideal choice for their light and fluffy texture, which pairs perfectly with the rich and savory ragu.

1. Boil the Potatoes: In a large pot, cover the peeled and chopped russet potatoes with salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Mash and Season: Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes with the unsalted butter and milk, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste.

Finishing Touches on the Short Rib Ragu

With the Short Rib Ragu braised to perfection and the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes ready to go, it’s time to bring the dish together. Carefully remove the short ribs from the sauce and shred the tender meat, discarding any bones. Return the shredded meat to the flavorful sauce, stirring to combine. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.

Serving the Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

To serve, scoop a generous portion of the creamy Parmesan Mashed Potatoes onto a plate or shallow bowl. Top the potatoes with the rich and saucy Short Rib Ragu. Garnish the dish with fresh parsley, if desired. This comforting and satisfying meal is sure to delight your senses and warm your soul.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Garlic Herb Chicken with Mashed Potatoes
• Balsamic Potato Salad
• Crockpot Chicken Tortellini

FAQs about Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Can I use a different cut of beef if short ribs aren’t available?

While short ribs are the traditional choice, you can substitute other braising cuts of beef, such as chuck roast or brisket, if short ribs are not available. The cooking time may need to be adjusted slightly, but the resulting dish will still be rich and flavorful.

How long does it take to cook the short ribs until tender?

The short ribs in this recipe should braise in the oven for 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is incredibly tender and falling off the bone. The long, slow cooking process is key to achieving the desired melt-in-your-mouth texture.

Can the ragu be made ahead of time and reheated?

Absolutely! The Short Rib Ragu actually benefits from being made in advance. You can prepare the ragu, let it cool, and then refrigerate it for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the ragu on the stovetop or in the oven until heated through.

Is it possible to make the mashed potatoes dairy-free or lower in fat?

Yes, you can easily make the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes dairy-free or lower in fat. For a dairy-free version, substitute the butter and milk with plant-based alternatives, such as olive oil or coconut milk. To reduce the fat content, use less butter and milk, or consider using low-fat or non-fat milk.

Conclusion

Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is a dish that embodies the essence of comfort food. The tender, flavorful beef paired with a rich, tomato-based sauce and creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes creates a meal that is both satisfying and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply enjoy a cozy, Italian-inspired dinner at home, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite. So, gather your loved ones, set the table, and get ready to savor the comforts of this delectable dish.

Looking for more tasty ideas? Visit Elena’s Fast & Flavorful Recipes on Pinterest for a treasure trove of easy meals, comforting bakes, and fun kitchen inspiration!

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