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Short Rib Ragu

Indulgent Short Rib Ragu: A Cozy Italian Classic

Experience the comforting and rich flavors of Short Rib Ragu, perfect for any dinner occasion.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

For the Ragu
  • 3 pounds Bone-in Beef Short Ribs Choose well-marbled ribs for the richest flavor and tenderness.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Ideal for searing the ribs; vegetable oil can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 medium Yellow Onion Adds sweetness; white onion works as a good alternative.
  • 2 medium Carrots Introduce natural sweetness; feel free to replace with parsnips for a twist.
  • 2 stalks Celery Key to your mirepoix base; omit if unavailable, but add extra onion if needed.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic enhances the aroma; powdered can be used in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Dry Red Wine Brings depth and acidity; for a non-alcoholic option, beef broth works well.
  • 28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes These form the ragu's luscious sauce base; fresh tomatoes are great too!
  • 15 ounces Tomato Sauce These form the ragu's luscious sauce base; fresh tomatoes are great too!
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Concentrates the tomato flavor; optional but highly recommended for extra richness.
  • 2 cups Beef Broth Provides moisture and flavor; substitute with vegetable broth for a lighter version.
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves Aromatic herbs for more depth; Italian seasoning can step in if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Aromatic herbs for more depth; Italian seasoning can step in if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Rosemary Aromatic herbs for more depth; Italian seasoning can step in if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes Add optional heat; leave out for a milder dish.
  • to taste Salt Season to taste; adjust based on personal preference.
  • to taste Pepper Season to taste; adjust based on personal preference.
For Serving
  • 12 ounces Pasta (e.g., Pappardelle) Acts as the perfect base; switch it up with Tagliatelle or Rigatoni if desired.
  • ¼ cup Fresh Parsley A vibrant garnish; substitute basil for a fragrant twist.
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Complements the ragu beautifully; try Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Pat the bone-in beef short ribs dry with paper towels, then season generously with salt and pepper. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Sear the ribs on all sides until beautifully browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add diced yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and begin to caramelize. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Stir in tomato paste and let it cook for another 2 minutes.
  3. Pour in dry red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot. Increase heat and let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  4. Return the seared short ribs to the pot, add bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Cover the pot with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let simmer gently for 3 to 4 hours.
  5. Remove the short ribs from the pot and place on a cutting board. Allow to cool for a few minutes, then shred the meat off the bones. Return shredded meat back to the pot and let it simmer uncovered for an additional 20-30 minutes to thicken.
  6. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining. Drain and set aside briefly, tossing with a little olive oil.
  7. Toss the cooked pasta into the pot with the short rib ragu, mixing thoroughly to ensure every strand is coated in the sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for consistency. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 70gProtein: 40gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 3000IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3.5mg

Notes

Feel free to prep this dish a day in advance for even richer flavors. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

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