Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Delicious Sunday Dinner Ideas

Name: Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Delicious Sunday Dinner Ideas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 3 h
Total time: 3 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs beef short ribs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup red wine; 2 cups beef broth; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in a comforting bowl of tender short rib ragu served over silky parmesan mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner.

Created by

Amber Walsh

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:49:44.935Z

This tender short rib ragu is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in rich flavors that will warm your soul. Paired with creamy parmesan mashed potatoes, it's a dish that's sure to impress.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that bring comfort to the table
Creamy, silky mashed potatoes that complement the ragu beautifully
Ideal for family gatherings or special occasions

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a hearty meal to warm you up. This tender short rib ragu is an ideal dish for those moments when you crave something rich and satisfying. The slow-cooked beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender, infused with flavors that develop beautifully over hours of simmering. Paired with creamy parmesan mashed potatoes, it creates a comforting dish that’s perfect for gathering the family around the dinner table.

The combination of tender meat and silky potatoes makes this dish not only delicious but also visually appealing. The deep red hue of the ragu against the creamy white of the mashed potatoes creates an inviting plate that will entice everyone to dig in. Each bite is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, offering a taste experience that is both comforting and indulgent.

A Dish for Special Occasions

This short rib ragu is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Ideal for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, or special celebrations, it brings people together. The aroma of the ragu simmering away will have your guests eagerly anticipating dinner, and the rich flavors will leave them raving about your cooking long after the meal is over. It’s a dish that allows you to showcase your culinary skills without spending all day in the kitchen.

Moreover, this recipe is easily adaptable. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or switch up the herbs to make it your own. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or a casual family night, it’s sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table.

Cooking Tips for Success

To ensure the best results when making your short rib ragu, be sure to sear the meat properly. This step is crucial as it develops a rich flavor foundation for your sauce. Don't rush this process; browning the meat adds a depth of flavor that will elevate the entire dish. Additionally, allowing the ragu to simmer slowly will enhance the tenderness of the beef and the overall taste of the sauce.

When preparing the parmesan mashed potatoes, choose Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture and rich flavor. Don’t skimp on the seasoning; a little extra salt and pepper can make a significant difference. For an added layer of flavor, consider roasting the garlic before mashing it into the potatoes for a sweeter, more complex taste.

Ingredients

For the Short Rib Ragu

2 lbs beef short ribs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup red wine
2 cups beef broth
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 cup unsalted butter
Salt and pepper, to taste

Gather all ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother process.

Instructions

Prepare the Short Rib Ragu

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

Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot, cooking until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute. Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.

Return the short ribs to the pot and add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 2-3 hours, until the meat is tender.

Make the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

While the ragu is cooking, place the diced potatoes in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

Add the heavy cream, butter, and parmesan cheese to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve the Dish

Once the ragu is done, remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Serve the short rib ragu over a generous scoop of the parmesan mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious meal with family and friends!

Pairing Suggestions

To complement this rich dish, consider serving it with a robust red wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Chianti. These wines have the body and tannins to stand up to the flavors of the ragu, enhancing your dining experience. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon can cleanse the palate beautifully between bites.

You can also round out your meal with a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing counterbalance to the heaviness of the ragu and mashed potatoes, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in for a treat! The flavors of the short rib ragu often improve after a day in the fridge, as the ingredients continue to meld together. Store the ragu and mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, the ragu can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the sauce. The parmesan mashed potatoes can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove with a little added cream or butter for that freshly made taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can substitute beef chuck roast for the short ribs if desired.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover ragu and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

→ What wine pairs well with this dish?

A full-bodied red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs well with the rich flavors of the ragu.