Name: Savory Short Rib Ragu Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 150 min
Total time: 165 min
Ingredients: 3 lbs Short Ribs (Bone-in for richer flavor or boneless for ease of serving.); 2 tbsp Olive Oil (Essential for searing.); 2 tsp Kosher Salt (Adjust to taste.); 1 medium Onion (Diced.); 2 stalks Celery (Diced.); 1 medium Carrot (Diced.); 4 cloves Garlic (Minced.); 2 tbsp Tomato Paste (For caramelizing.); 1 tsp Black Pepper (Freshly cracked.); 1 cup Red Wine (Dry variety like Chianti or Merlot.); 2 cups Broth (Chicken or beef.); 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes (Canned.); 1 bundle Herb Bundle (Thyme, Rosemary) (Remove before serving.); 2 leaves Bay Leaves (Discard before serving.); 1 tbsp Vinegar (To balance richness.); ¼ cup Fresh Parsley (For garnish.); ¼ cup Parmigiano Reggiano (For garnish.)

As the simmering aroma of this Short Rib Ragu fills your kitchen, it’s hard not to get lost in the comforting memories of family meals and cozy evenings. This Italian-inspired dish is truly a labor of love, featuring tender beef swimming in a rich, savory sauce enlivened by fragrant herbs and a splash of red wine. Perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions, this Short Rib Ragu recipe not only delights the taste buds but is also a great way to warm up on chilly nights. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that you can easily prepare ahead of time, ensuring that you spend more time enjoying the company of loved ones and less time in the kitchen. Are you ready to dive into the world of homemade comfort food?

Why Is This Short Rib Ragu Special?

Heartwarming Comfort: This dish wraps you in a cozy embrace with its rich and savory sauce, making it the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings or a romantic dinner.

Simplicity: Even though it feels luxurious, the steps are easy to follow. You’ll impress your guests without spending all day in the kitchen!

Flavorful Depth: The combination of red wine, fresh herbs, and tender beef creates a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate.

Versatile Pairing: Serve it over tagliatelle or creamy polenta for a delicious twist, or use it as a filling for lasagna—it’s all about mixing things up!

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance for flavors that deepen overnight. Plus, leftovers are just as delightful; try them in a baked potato for a quick meal.

If you’re looking for more comforting dishes, don’t miss out on my Crack Burgers or a refreshing side like Millionaire Peach Salad.

Short Rib Ragu Ingredients

• A delightful blend for your ragu!

For the Ragu

Short Ribs – Use bone-in for richer flavor or boneless for ease of serving.
Olive Oil – Essential for searing, helping to develop a beautiful brown crust.
Kosher Salt – Crucial for enhancing the meat’s natural taste; adjust to your liking.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth when cooked until golden.
Celery – Contributes earthy notes, blending beautifully with other aromatics.
Carrot – Provides sweetness for balance in the savory sauce.
Garlic – Use fresh for a fragrant punch that elevates your ragu.
Tomato Paste – Caramelize it for added richness and umami flavor.
Black Pepper – Freshly cracked adds subtle heat and enhances the overall flavor.
Red Wine – A dry variety like Chianti or Merlot adds complexity to the sauce.
Broth – Chicken or beef broth provides liquid and imparts richness; choose your favorite!
Crushed Tomatoes – Adds body and a hint of sweetness to marry the flavors.
Herb Bundle (Thyme, Rosemary) – Infuses the ragu with aromatic goodness; just remember to remove it before serving.
Bay Leaves – Offers an additional layer of flavor; be sure to discard before plating.
Vinegar – Introduces a brightness, balancing the dish’s richness.
Fresh Parsley – For garnish, bringing a fresh color and touch to your dish.
Parmigiano Reggiano – A final sprinkle of cheese enhances flavor, creating the perfect finish.

This Short Rib Ragu recipe is a beautiful blend of flavors that will warm your heart and your home!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Short Rib Ragu Recipe

Step 1: Season and Sear the Ribs
Begin by generously seasoning your short ribs with kosher salt. In a heavy-bottomed pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the short ribs in batches, being careful not to overcrowd the pot, and sear them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful brown crust.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the ribs are browned, remove them and set aside. In the same pot, add diced onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic, cooking them over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes until they soften and turn golden. Stir frequently to prevent them from sticking, allowing the vegetables to release their savory aromas.

Step 3: Build the Flavor with Tomato Paste
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook this mixture for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomato paste to caramelize slightly and deepen in flavor. The aroma will shift to a rich, tomato scent, signaling that your base is ready for the next ingredients.

Step 4: Deglaze and Add the Ribs
Return the seared short ribs to the pot, ensuring they nestle among the sautéed vegetables. Pour in 1 cup of dry red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to lift all those flavorful browned bits. This step enriches the ragu with depth and character from the wine.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Tomatoes
Next, pour in 2 cups of broth and add a 28-ounce can of crushed tomatoes along with your herb bundle and 2 bay leaves. Stir to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot partially and reduce the heat to low, cooking for 2 to 2½ hours until the short ribs are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 6: Shred the Meat and Adjust the Seasoning
After simmering, carefully remove the bay leaves and herb bundle from the pot. Shred the tender meat from the bones using two forks, discarding the bones. Stir in 1 tablespoon of vinegar to balance the richness of the ragu, and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper as needed for the perfect bite.

Step 7: Thicken if Desired and Serve
If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the ragu simmer uncovered on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes. Once ready, serve your comforting Short Rib Ragu over tagliatelle or creamy polenta, garnish with fresh parsley and a generous sprinkle of Parmigiano Reggiano for an irresistible finish.

How to Store and Freeze Short Rib Ragu

Fridge: Store any leftover Short Rib Ragu in airtight containers for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the ragu in portions for up to 3 months. Use heavy-duty freezer bags or containers, ensuring to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating: Thaw frozen ragu overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to adjust consistency.

Make-Ahead Tip: Consider making this Short Rib Ragu a day in advance, as the flavors intensify and improve over time, making it even more delicious for the next meal!

Make Ahead Options

These Short Rib Ragu are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sear the short ribs and sauté the aromatics up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the sauce ingredients (broth, crushed tomatoes, wine, herbs) and refrigerate everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. When you’re ready to finish the dish, just combine the prepped components in your pot, simmer until the meat is tender, and serve over your favorite pasta or polenta. This prepping method saves time on busy weeknights while ensuring your Short Rib Ragu is just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Short Rib Ragu

Sear with Care: Don’t overcrowd the pot while searing the ribs. This allows them to brown evenly and enhances the overall flavor of the Short Rib Ragu.
Use Good Wine: Choose a red wine that you enjoy drinking. The quality will directly impact the sauce’s flavor, making it richer and more enjoyable.
Make Ahead: Prepare your Short Rib Ragu a day in advance. These flavors deepen overnight, resulting in a dish that’s even more delicious when reheated!
Adjust Consistency: If your sauce is too loose, simply simmer uncovered on low heat until it reaches your desired thickness. It’s a straightforward fix!
Cozy Leftovers: Don’t waste any leftovers! Use them to top baked potatoes or as a filling for lasagna—transforming your delicious ragu into another comforting meal.

Short Rib Ragu Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and personalize this delightful ragu to suit your taste buds!

Non-Alcoholic: Replace red wine with beef broth for a delicious, non-alcoholic option that still delivers savory depth.
Polenta Base: Instead of pasta, serve the ragu over creamy polenta for a comforting, comforting twist that melts in your mouth.
Lasagna Filling: Use the ragu as a filling for homemade lasagna, layering it between sheets of pasta for an Italian classic that never disappoints.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking for a gentle heat that complements the richness of the ragu beautifully.
Vegetarian Version: Swap short ribs with mushrooms or jackfruit, simmering them in the sauce for a hearty, plant-based delight.
Herbal Infusion: Try adding fresh basil or oregano towards the end of cooking to brighten the sauce with a fresh burst of flavor.
Baked Potato Topping: Use it as a savory topping for baked potatoes—comfort food at its finest, with an explosion of flavors in each bite!
Sloppy Joes Variation: Transform the ragu into Sloppy Joes by piling it onto toasted buns, making for a fun, messy dinner that everyone will love.

For more comforting recipes, why not try my Miso Glazed Salmon for a flavor-packed meal or indulge in a warm plate of Taco Pasta Bake to keep cozy?

What to Serve with Comforting Short Rib Ragu

Elevate your comforting dinner with these perfect pairings that harmonize beautifully with the rich flavors of Short Rib Ragu.

Creamy Polenta: This luscious base adds a smooth, buttery richness that beautifully offsets the savory ragu, making each bite a delight.
Tagliatelle Pasta: Perfectly cooked fettuccine-like noodles capture the sauce impeccably, creating a traditional Italian experience you won’t forget.
Garlic Bread: A crusty loaf slathered with garlic butter makes for a heavenly accompaniment, ideal for soaking up the delicious ragu sauce.
Crisp Green Salad: A refreshing mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette brings brightness and crunch, balancing the ragu’s fullness.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized sweetness of these veggies creates a delightful contrast to the hearty ragu, adding texture and flavor.
Red Wine: A glass of the same dry red wine used in cooking enhances the meal’s elegance, pairing seamlessly with every bite.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note! This classic Italian dessert offers a light, coffee-flavored finish to round out your comforting dining experience.

Short Rib Ragu Recipe FAQs

What kind of short ribs should I use?
Both bone-in and boneless short ribs work wonderfully for this dish. Bone-in ribs add a richer flavor due to the marrow, while boneless ribs are easier to serve. I often recommend bone-in for the ultimate comfort food experience!

How should I store leftovers of Short Rib Ragu?
Store any leftover Short Rib Ragu in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain its delightful flavors and texture.

Can I freeze Short Rib Ragu? How?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the ragu cool, then divide it into portions and place it in heavy-duty freezer bags or airtight containers. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn, and label the containers with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and gently reheat on the stove.

What can I do if my ragu is too watery?
If you find your Short Rib Ragu has a loose consistency, don’t worry! Simply let it simmer uncovered on low heat for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will help reduce and thicken the sauce effectively. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to check on the flavor as it concentrates.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Yes, be mindful that this Short Rib Ragu contains beef, which may not be suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Additionally, if you have allergies, the recipe contains garlic, onion, and olive oil. You can adapt this dish by offering a vegetarian alternative like jackfruit or mushrooms for a similar texture and flavor profile. Always check labels for any allergies related to your preference!