Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate Recipe

This Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together tender, slow-cooked beef with luxuriously creamy mashed potatoes. The magic truly happens when you Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate, creating the perfect base to soak up every bit of that rich, flavorful ragu. With every bite, you get a beautiful mix of savory meat, herbaceous sauce, and cheesy, velvety potatoes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. This is a dish that’s equally impressive for a cozy night in or an unforgettable dinner with friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To whip up this comforting dish, you only need a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients that work in harmony. Each one plays a starring role, whether it’s building the deep flavor of the ragu or making the mashed potatoes irresistibly creamy and cheesy.

• Short Ribs: These meaty beauties become tender and flavorful through slow cooking, making the ragu rich and hearty.
• Olive Oil: Helps brown the ribs perfectly and adds a subtle fruitiness to the dish.
• Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth to the ragu’s base.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with warmth and aroma that’s hard to resist.
• Carrots and Celery: Classic aromatics that bring texture and enhance the ragu’s savoriness.
• Crushed Tomatoes: Offers a tangy, rich foundation for the sauce that balances the meat’s richness.
• Beef Broth: Adds an extra layer of umami to braise the ribs and enrich the sauce.
• Dried Thyme and Rosemary: Bring earthy, herbaceous notes that elevate the entire dish.
• Bay Leaf: Introduces subtle warmth and complexity to the slow-cooked sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the ragu beautifully.
• Russet Potatoes: The ideal starchy variety that mash up into fluffy, creamy potatoes.
• Unsalted Butter: Adds richness and smoothness to the mashed potatoes.
• Milk: Creams the potatoes without weighing them down.
• Parmesan Cheese: Delivers a savory, nutty punch that makes the mashed potatoes truly special.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential seasonings to bring all the flavors alive.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A bright garnish that gives the dish a fresh, lively look.

How to Make Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate

Step 1: Brown the Short Ribs

Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 10 minutes. This step is crucial as it locks in rich flavor and creates that beautiful caramelized crust you dream of. Once browned, set them aside while you tackle the next steps.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Let these soften over medium heat for 5 to 7 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness and creating the base for your ragu. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until wonderfully fragrant. This aromatic mix is the heart of your sauce.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Now stir in the tomato paste and cook it until it darkens, enhancing its flavor, about 2 to 3 minutes. Then add crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring everything together to form a luscious sauce. The tomato paste concentrates the tomato flavor, while the broth makes sure the sauce stays rich and velvety.

Step 4: Add the Herbs and Ribs

Season your sauce with dried thyme, rosemary, and a bay leaf for deep herbaceous notes. Gently nestle the browned short ribs back into the pot, making sure they’re mostly submerged. This is where patience pays off since slow cooking will transform these ribs into a tender, flavorful masterpiece.

Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your pot and simmer on low for 3 to 4 hours. The slow braise breaks down the connective tissue in the ribs, turning them fork-tender and meltingly delicious. The sauce thickens as the flavors marry beautifully. Don’t rush this step — it’s the secret to that decadent finished dish.

Step 6: Shred and Combine

Carefully remove the ribs from the pot and shred the meat with two forks, discarding the bones. Return the shredded meat to the sauce and stir well. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Your ragu should be rich, hearty, and full of soul.

Step 7: Prepare Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

While your ragu finishes, boil peeled and chopped russet potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Drain them well, then mash with butter and milk until silky smooth. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese to add that irresistible cheesy depth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mash will be the sumptuous bed for your ragu.

How to Serve Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate

Garnishes

Garnishing your dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds a splash of vibrant green but also a fresh, herbaceous brightness that balances the richness of the ragu and potatoes. It’s these small details that take a dish from homey to restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty meal with simple sides like roasted green beans or a crisp baby arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette. The fresh, peppery notes cut through the richness beautifully and keep your plate balanced both in flavor and texture.

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd-pleasing presentation, serve the Parmesan mashed potatoes in individual ramekins, then top with the ragu and garnish. Or, try mounding the mash on a large platter and ladling the ragu over in the center for a rustic family-style experience. Either way, don’t forget to Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate — it’s the star your guests will remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover short rib ragu and Parmesan mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Both will keep beautifully for up to 4 days, making your life easier for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze the ragu and mashed potatoes separately for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool them completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. This way, you always have a comforting meal at the ready.

Reheating

Gently reheat the ragu in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally. For the mashed potatoes, stir in a splash of milk or cream while warming in a microwave or stovetop to restore their creamy texture. And remember to Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate once reheated to recreate that wonderful balance of flavors.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of short ribs?

Absolutely! While short ribs are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, beef chuck roast or brisket can also be used. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat becomes tender and falls apart easily.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes?

Peeling the potatoes gives you a smoother mashed texture, especially with russets. If you prefer a more rustic mash, you can leave the skins on, but be sure to scrub them thoroughly first.

Can I make the ragu in a slow cooker?

Yes, the slow cooker is perfect for this dish! Brown the ribs and sauté vegetables on the stove, then transfer everything to the cooker and let it slow cook for 6 to 8 hours on low for tender, flavorful results.

What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan adds a lovely nutty depth to the mashed potatoes, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano or even a sharp cheddar if that’s what you have on hand. Each will bring its own delicious twist.

How can I make this dish ahead for a dinner party?

You can fully prepare the ragu and mashed potatoes a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving and Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate, ladle the ragu on top, and add any fresh garnishes right before guests arrive.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a meal that warms your soul, and this Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan mashed potatoes does just that. From the tender, melt-in-your-mouth ribs to the creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes, every element is crafted for comfort and flavor. So the next time you want to treat yourself or impress your loved ones, don’t forget to Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate and watch how this simple act transforms your dinner into something unforgettable.

Print