Discover how to make a rich and flavorful short rib ragu that’s easy to prepare and budget-friendly. Perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
Craving a hearty, comforting meal? This Short Rib Ragu is the answer. Slow-braised beef short ribs simmered in a rich tomato sauce create a dish that’s both indulgent and satisfying. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is easy to prepare and budget-friendly. At Recipench, we believe in making gourmet meals accessible to everyone.
Short Rib Ragu
Equipment
- 1 Large Dutch oven For searing and braising
- 1 Chef’s knife For chopping vegetables
- 2 Forks For shredding meat
- 1 Wooden spoon For stirring
- 1 Colander For draining pasta
- 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons For accuracy
Ingredients
- 3–4 lbs Bone-in beef short ribs Can substitute boneless
- 2 tbsp Olive oil For searing
- 1 large Onion Diced
- 2 Carrots Peeled and diced
- 2 stalks Celery Diced
- 4 cloves Garlic Minced
- 1/4 cup Tomato paste –
- 1 can(28 oz) Crushed tomatoes –
- 2 cups Beef broth – –
- 2 leaves Bay leaves – –
- 1 sprig Fresh rosemary – –
- To taste Salt & Pepper – –
- 1 lb Pappardelle pasta Can use gluten-free
- – – Parmesan cheese Freshly grated,for serving
Instructions
- Phase 1 / Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, season short ribs with salt and pepper, sear all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side, then set aside
- Phase 1 / Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics In the same pot, add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cook until softened about 5 minutes, add minced garlic and cook 1 minute
- Phase 2 / Step 1: Add Tomatoes and Broth Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth, return short ribs and juices, add bay leaves and rosemary, bring to a simmer
- Phase 2 / Step 2: Braise the Ragu Cover pot, transfer to oven at 325°F (163°C), braise 2.5–3 hours until meat is tender and falls from bone
- Phase 3 / Step 1: Shred the Meat Remove short ribs, shred with two forks discarding bones, return shredded meat to sauce and mix
- Phase 3 / Step 2: Cook the Pasta Prepare pappardelle according to package instructions, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain
- Phase 3 / Step 3: Combine and Serve Toss pasta with ragu, add reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency, serve hot garnished with Parmesan
Notes
- Make-Ahead: Prepare a day in advance, refrigerate overnight, skim fat before reheating
- Vegetable Variations: Add mushrooms or bell peppers
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with crusty bread
- Ingredient Spotlight: Short ribs are ideal for braising, providing rich flavor and tender meat
Tips, Notes & Variations
- Make-Ahead: This ragu can be prepared a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator overnight; the flavors will deepen, and the fat can be easily skimmed off before reheating.
- Wine Pairing: Serve with a robust red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti, to complement the rich flavors of the dish.
- Vegetable Variations: Add mushrooms or bell peppers for additional depth and flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Ingredient Spotlight: Short Ribs
Short ribs are a flavorful cut of beef known for their rich marbling and tenderness when slow-cooked. They are ideal for braising, as the long cooking time breaks down the connective tissue, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth meat. In this ragu, short ribs provide a deep, savory base that enhances the overall dish.
🧾 Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 650 kcal
- Protein: 45g
- Fat: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 8g
*Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use boneless short ribs instead of bone-in?
Yes, boneless short ribs can be used. However, bone-in ribs tend to have more flavor and richness.
2. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the short ribs and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours until the meat is tender.
3. How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in
To Wrap It Up
his rich and flavorful Short Rib Ragu is truly a crowd-pleaser that brings comfort and elegance to your table without breaking the bank. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe’s tender, slow-braised beef and savory tomato sauce will make every bite unforgettable. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a great way to enjoy gourmet dining at home.
Ready to impress your family and friends? Try this recipe today and see why it’s becoming a favorite at Recipench.com. Don’t forget to share your delicious results with us!