Indulge in Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Name: Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 lbs bone-in short ribs; 1 large yellow onion, chopped; 2 medium carrots, finely chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup dry red wine (e.g., Merlot); 28 oz crushed tomatoes (canned); 1 cup low-sodium beef broth; 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 4 tbsp unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Cathy

Posted:

September 6, 2025

Updated:

September 6, 2025

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There’s something simply magical about a bowl of Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes. Imagine a rich, savory sauce that clings to tender, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs, enveloped in the warmth of creamy, buttery mashed potatoes. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds, and trust me, it feels just as comforting on a rainy day as it does during a festive family gathering.

This dish brings back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen, where the scent of simmering meat would mingle with laughter and the clinking of silverware. It’s perfect for cozy Sunday dinners or when you want to impress dinner guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The anticipation builds as you prepare to dive into this flavor explosion—it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Short Rib Ragu is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect even for novice cooks.
The depth of flavors will have everyone asking for seconds.
Visually stunning with its rich colors, it turns any dinner table into a feast.
Versatile enough to serve over pasta or polenta, it never disappoints!

Ingredients for Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Short Ribs: Aim for bone-in short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness; they’ll become fork-tender during cooking.
Onion: Use a large yellow onion; it adds sweetness and depth to the ragu.
Carrots: These add natural sweetness; chop them finely so they blend seamlessly into the sauce.
Celery: A couple of stalks will enhance the flavor base; look for crisp, fresh celery.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide that aromatic punch; minced is best for even distribution.

For the Sauce:

Red Wine: Choose a dry red wine (like Merlot); it deepens the sauce’s richness and is perfect for sipping while you cook!
Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for consistency; they help create a luscious sauce.
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it adds moisture and beefy flavor.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

Russet Potatoes: They’re starchy and yield creamy mashed potatoes; peel them before boiling.
Butter: Use unsalted butter; it makes everything richer and creamier.
Heavy Cream: This elevates your mashed potatoes to a whole new level of indulgence—don’t skimp on it!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

How to Make Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs

Start by heating a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Add a splash of oil and sear each side until they’re beautifully browned—about three minutes per side. Remove them from the pot and set aside.

Step 2: Build Your Flavor Base

In the same pot, toss in your chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté these veggies until softened—roughly five minutes—allowing those delightful aromas to fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Deglaze with Red Wine

Pour in that lovely dry red wine you saved from earlier (you know, the one you were sipping!). Scrape up any delicious brown bits stuck at the bottom—it’s like unlocking flavor treasure! Let this simmer until reduced by half.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Return your seared short ribs back to their cozy home in the pot. Bring everything to a gentle simmer before covering and reducing heat.

Step 5: Let It Cook

Allow your ragu to cook low and slow for about two hours. This is where magic happens! Turn on some music or watch an episode of your favorite show while waiting—you deserve it!

Step 6: Prepare Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

While your ragu simmers away, peel and chop russet potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender (about fifteen minutes). Drain them well before mashing with butter and heavy cream until creamy perfection forms.

Serving suggestion: Serve generous portions of short rib ragu over those heavenly mashed potatoes. Drizzle some extra sauce on top—because why not? Enjoy every bite!

By following these straightforward steps, you’ll create an irresistible Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes that will surely impress anyone lucky enough to share your table!

You Must Know

This Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is not just a meal; it’s an experience.
With rich flavors and creamy textures, it transforms any ordinary dinner into a celebration.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making you look like a culinary genius.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing the short ribs to lock in their juicy goodness. While they braise, whip up the mashed potatoes for velvety perfection. Finish by combining everything together for a ragu that sings with flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this dish with your favorite herbs or add a splash of red wine to the sauce for extra depth. Swap out short ribs for beef chuck if you’re feeling adventurous, or throw in some veggies for added color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to keep it saucy and delicious.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To ensure your Short Rib Ragu turns out perfectly every time, remember these tips: Sear your meat well for deep flavor.
Use starchy potatoes for creamy mashed potatoes.
Don’t rush the simmering process; patience results in richer flavors.

It was one of those chilly evenings when my best friend declared this dish as “life-changing.” We laughed as we dug into our bowls piled high with ragu and mash, realizing we’d just created a new dinner tradition.

FAQs:

What is Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes?

Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is a rich, flavorful dish that combines tender short ribs slow-cooked in a savory sauce with creamy mashed potatoes flavored with Parmesan cheese. The ragu features a medley of aromatics and tomatoes, creating a hearty sauce that pairs beautifully with the smooth texture of the mashed potatoes. This comforting meal is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.

How long does it take to prepare Short Rib Ragu?

Preparing Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes typically takes several hours, primarily due to the slow cooking required for the short ribs. You can expect about 30 minutes of active preparation time, followed by 2 to 3 hours of simmering on the stovetop or in the oven. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld and results in incredibly tender meat that falls off the bone.

Can I make Short Rib Ragu ahead of time?

Absolutely! Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes can be made ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or hosting dinner parties. After cooking, let the ragu cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just thaw and reheat before serving.

What can I serve with Short Rib Ragu?

While Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is delicious on its own, you can enhance your meal by serving it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A glass of red wine pairs wonderfully as well, complementing the rich flavors of the ragu. For an added touch, consider garnishing your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme.

Conclusion for Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes:

Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is a delightful dish that combines savory flavors and comforting textures. With its tender short ribs and creamy mashed potatoes, it’s perfect for any occasion. Preparing this dish takes some time but rewards you with a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you make it ahead or serve it fresh, this recipe will quickly become a favorite at your dining table. Enjoy every bite!

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