Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes 🍷🥔✨
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful, and impressive dinner idea, then this short rib ragu over creamy mashed potatoes recipe is the perfect choice. Combining the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness of braised short ribs with velvety mashed potatoes, this dish is a delightful dinner with mashed potatoes and gravy. Ideal for a Sunday night dinner ideas or a special occasion, it offers a blend of rich textures and bold flavors that will satisfy any crowd or serve as a romantic fancy date night dinner recipe.
2. Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup red wine (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
3. Step-by-Step Preparation
**3.1. Sear the Short Ribs**
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large, ovenproof Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot. Sear the ribs until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
**3.2. Prepare the Ragu Base**
In the same pot, add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to reduce by half, about 3-4 minutes.
**3.3. Braise the Ribs**
Return the short ribs to the pot. Add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, and thyme sprigs. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and transfer to the oven. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, until the short ribs are fall-apart tender.
**3.4. Make the Mashed Potatoes**
While the ribs are braising, cook the peeled potatoes in boiling salted water until very tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, Parmesan cheese, and milk, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
3.5. Serve the Dish**
Remove the short ribs from the oven, shred the meat, and mix it back into the rich sauce. Plate the creamy mashed potatoes, then spoon the hearty short rib ragu over the top. Garnish with additional Parmesan or fresh herbs if desired.
4. Storage Tips & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat the short rib ragu and mashed potatoes separately, gently warming on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months for convenient future meals.
5. Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This dinner with mashed potatoes and gravy pairs beautifully with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables or a simple crisp green salad. For an added touch of elegance, serve with a glass of full-bodied red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. Looking for complementary recipes? Check out these shepherd’s pie or the cozy ground beef orzo.
6. Why This Recipe Works for Fall & Weekend Gatherings
This fall dinner for a crowd combines rich flavors and comforting textures, making it perfect for chilly evenings. The slow braising process develops deep flavors while the mash provides a silky counterbalance. It’s ideal for Sunday Southern dinner ideas that wow guests or family alike.
7. Tips for Making This a Fancy Date Night Dinner
Upgrade your presentation by serving the short rib ragu over a bed of seasoned, roasted garlic mashed potatoes or adding a sprinkle of microgreens and a drizzle of aged balsamic. Pair this dish with a decadent red wine or sparkling water infused with fresh herbs for a romantic atmosphere. For quick prep, consider using premium cookware like the CAROTE nonstick set for easy cleanup.
8. Related Recipes & Inspiration
Explore more dinner party meal ideas like our hearty French onion beef sloppy Joes or the crockpot pierogi casserole. These dishes will elevate your next gathering or weekend feast.
9. Conclusion
This Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes recipe offers a perfect blend of comforting flavors and elegant presentation. Whether you’re planning a cozy fall dinner, a Sunday family feast, or a romantic fancy date night dinner, this dish promises to impress. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll enjoy creating a delicious, satisfying meal that everyone will love. Don’t forget to explore our other dessert ideas to complete your perfect dinner experience!
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Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Delicious Sunday Dinner Ideas
- Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Gluten-Free (without mashed potato additives), Dairy
Description
Indulge in our Tender Short Rib Ragu over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes, a hearty and flavorful dinner perfect for Sunday family meals or special occasions. This dish combines melt-in-your-mouth braised short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes topped with Parmesan cheese, creating a luxurious and comforting experience.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup red wine (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Sear in hot oil until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, cook onions, carrots, and celery until softened (~5 mins). Add garlic and cook 1 min. Pour in red wine, scrape browned bits, reduce by half (~3-4 mins).
- Return ribs to pot. Add beef broth, crushed tomatoes, thyme. Bring to a boil, cover, bake 2.5-3 hours until ribs are tender and falling apart.
- While braising, cook peeled potatoes in boiling salted water until tender (~15-20 mins). Drain, return to pot. Add butter, Parmesan, milk, mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Shred the cooked short ribs and mix back into the sauce. Serve over mashed potatoes, garnished with extra Parmesan or herbs if desired.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, marinate short ribs overnight before cooking.
- Use good quality red wine for enhanced taste.
- Ensure potatoes are super tender for smooth mash.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Braising, Mashed Potatoes
- Cuisine: American