Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

Name: Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 4.0
Ingredients: 3 lbs boneless beef short ribs; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup red wine; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This comforting and flavorful Tender Short Rib Ragu is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy Sunday dinner. Slow-cooked to perfection, the succulent short ribs melt in your mouth, while the rich, savory ragu pairs beautifully with creamy, silky Parmesan mashed potatoes. This dish is a delightful way to bring family together and elevate your weeknight meals.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-01T16:06:08.969Z

This recipe is perfect for a gathering or for a cozy night in.

A Perfect Sunday Dinner

There’s something special about gathering family and friends around a hearty meal, and this Tender Short Rib Ragu does just that. Slowly cooked over a few hours, the flavors meld together, creating a dish that is both comforting and extravagant. Serve it up on a Sunday when you want to unwind and enjoy the company of loved ones. This ragu is sure to impress, making it a perfect centerpiece for your next dinner gathering.

The aroma that fills your kitchen while the ragu is simmering is enough to create anticipation. As the rich scents waft through the air, everyone will find themselves eagerly awaiting the meal. Pairing the ragu with silky Parmesan mashed potatoes adds an extra layer of comfort that will leave your guests feeling satisfied.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure your short ribs turn out tender and succulent, searing is key. This step locks in the juices and creates a beautiful crust, enhancing the overall flavor. Don’t rush through the process; allow the ribs to brown properly before adding the vegetables and liquids. The browning process also adds depth to the sauce, enriching your ragu with additional layers of flavor.

Also, consider preparing the ragu a day in advance. Not only does this save you time, but letting the dish sit overnight allows the flavors to deepen further. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat and assemble with the mashed potatoes for a meal that tastes even better!

Why Parmesan Mashed Potatoes?

Parmesan mashed potatoes are the ideal complement to a robust ragu. The creaminess of the potatoes balances the rich and savory sauce, creating a harmonious dish that pleases the palate. Additionally, the Parmesan cheese adds a delightful umami flavor, enhancing the overall profile of the meal. Incorporating high-quality ingredients will truly elevate your mashed potatoes from simple to extraordinary.

You can also personalize your mashed potato recipe by experimenting with add-ins such as garlic or herbs. This versatility makes them not just a side dish, but a canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether you choose to keep it classic or try something new, these mashed potatoes serve as the ultimate comfort food.

Ingredients

Short Rib Ragu

3 lbs boneless beef short ribs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red wine
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Prepare the Ragu

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper and sear them on all sides until browned. Remove the ribs and set them aside.

Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine reduce by half.

Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Return the short ribs to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the ragu is cooking, prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

Add heavy cream, butter, Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Serve

Once the ragu is ready, shred the short ribs and mix them back into the sauce. Serve over the Parmesan mashed potatoes and enjoy!

Garnish with more Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired.

Nutritional Benefits

Short ribs, while rich in flavor, also contain essential nutrients such as iron and protein, which are important for muscle development and overall health. When enjoyed in moderation, this dish provides enriching nutrients that can be part of a balanced diet. Pairing the ragu with mashed potatoes adds carbohydrates, giving you the energy needed for daily activities.

Don't forget the vegetables in the ragu! Carrots, celery, and onions not only add flavor but also contribute fiber and essential vitamins. This combination in your meal makes it a fulfilling option for a hearty dinner.

Pairing Suggestions

To enhance your dining experience, consider serving this dish with a side of garlic bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious ragu, providing a satisfying crunch that complements the creamy mashed potatoes. A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also round out the meal, adding a refreshing contrast.

As for drinks, a robust red wine pairs excellently with the tender short rib ragu. Look for a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Merlot to match the depth of flavors in your dish. These pairings enhance the overall culinary experience, making your cozy dinner even more memorable.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use beef stew meat instead of short ribs?

Yes, beef stew meat can be a good substitute, but it may not be as tender as short ribs.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! The ragu can be made a day in advance and reheated before serving.