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Short Rib Ragu

Hearty, slow cooked short rib ragu made with rich red wine, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Serve over pasta or polenta for the ultimate comfort meal!
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 30 minutes
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs beef short ribs deboned and cut into 2" cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or vegetable/avocado oil
  • Kosher salt to taste
  • 1 cup white onion finely diced
  • ½ cup celery finely diced
  • ½ cup carrot finely diced
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup red wine
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  • cup crushed tomatoes 14 oz can
  • 1 herb bundle rosemary, thyme, parsley stems
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 2 tbsp sherry or red wine vinegar
  • Fresh cracked pepper to taste
  • 1 lb tagliatelle or pappardelle
  • Chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmigiano Reggiano for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Season short ribs generously with kosher salt.
  • Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium high heat. Sear short ribs on all sides in batches to avoid crowding. Transfer to a plate.
  • If excess fat remains, remove all but 2 tbsp from the pot.
  • Add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic to the pot. Sauté 3-4 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in tomato paste, 1 tsp kosher salt, and ½ tsp pepper. Cook 2-3 minutes.
  • Deglaze with red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot.
  • Return short ribs to the pot. Add broth and crushed tomatoes.
  • Tie herbs with kitchen twine into a bundle. Add to pot along with bay leaves.
  • Bring to a low simmer. Cover, leaving lid slightly ajar. Cook 2½–3 hours, until beef is fork tender.
  • Remove bay leaves and herb bundle. Shred meat with forks. Discard bones/cartilage if using bone in ribs.
  • Stir in vinegar. Simmer uncovered 15–30 mins more to thicken if needed.
  • Cook pasta according to package. Toss with ragu or spoon over top. Garnish with cheese and parsley.

Notes

  • Can substitute stewing beef if short ribs aren't available.
  • Ragu freezes well for up to 3 months.
  • Delicious with pasta, polenta, or as a ravioli filling.
Storage:
Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop.