The scent of slow-cooked goodness filled my kitchen as I prepped for a comforting evening meal. There’s something soul-soothing about a Hearty Slow-Cooked Short Rib Ragù, a dish that brings everyone to the table without fail. This rich and hearty ragù not only fills your home with tantalizing aromas but also transforms simple ingredients into a truly unforgettable experience. One of the best parts? While the dish simmers to perfection over the course of three hours, you only need about thirty minutes of active prep time—perfect for squeezing in a little relaxation. Whether served atop thick tagliatelle or creamy polenta, this ragù offers the kind of comfort food that invites cozy conversations and warm memories. What’s your favorite dish to share on a cozy evening like this?

Why is Short Rib Ragù a Must-Try?

Unmatched Flavor: The slow cooking process allows deep flavors to develop, creating a savory masterpiece that delights your senses.

Minimal Effort: With only about thirty minutes of active prep, you can spend more time enjoying the company of friends and family.

Versatile Pairing: Perfect with pasta, polenta, or even on its own, this ragù fits any meal occasion!

Ultimate Comfort: Thick, hearty, and rich in umami, it’s a dish that warms both the heart and soul, making it ideal for cozy dinners.

Impressive Crowd-Pleaser: Your guests will rave about this comforting dish, and you’ll be the star of the evening! Don’t forget to check out our pasta pairing suggestions to elevate your meal even further.

Short Rib Ragu Ingredients

• Dive into the flavors of comfort with these essential ingredients!

For the Ragù

Beef Short Ribs – Get de-boned and cut into 2″ cubes for ideal tenderness. Using bone-in ribs can enhance flavor beautifully.
Light Olive Oil – Perfect for searing and sautéing, adding just the right touch of richness. Feel free to swap in vegetable or avocado oil if preferred.
Kosher Salt – Essential for amplifying flavors; don’t skip this step!
White Onion – Finely diced, it brings a sweet depth to the dish.
Celery – Adds aromatic goodness; chop it finely for best results.
Carrot – Diced to contribute a gentle sweetness to the ragù.
Garlic Cloves – Minced to sneak in that lovely umami flavor.
Tomato Paste – Sautéed for added richness and umami; essential for that deep flavor.
Red Wine – Perfect for deglazing and infusing complexity. Avoiding alcohol? Just use stock instead.
Broth (Beef or Chicken) – Provides a liquid base, enriching the entire sauce.
Crushed Tomatoes (14oz can) – Adds bulk and bright acidity.
Herb Bundle (Rosemary, Thyme, Parsley Stems) – Brings a fragrant depth to your ragù.
Bay Leaves – Used for complexity; just remember to remove them before serving.
Sherry or Red Wine Vinegar – Perfect for balancing flavors; adds a zesty touch. Any vinegar can substitute here, if needed.
Fresh Cracked Pepper – Adds a finishing touch to the seasoning; adjust it to your taste.

For Serving

Pasta (Tagliatelle or Pappardelle) – Wonderful choices that hold the ragù well; cook per package instructions.
Chopped Parsley & Grated Parmigiano Reggiano – Fresh garnishes that enhance flavors brilliantly.

Prepare to indulge in a bowl of deliciousness with this Short Rib Ragu, a true comfort food experience!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Slow-Cooked Short Rib Ragù

Step 1: Season the Ribs
Generously coat your beef short ribs with kosher salt, ensuring each piece is well seasoned. For the best flavor, let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. This step is key to enhancing the overall taste of your hearty short rib ragù.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs
In a braiser or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of light olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the short ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding, and sear them for 3-4 minutes per side until browned. This caramelization creates a rich flavor foundation for your ragù.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Once the ribs are browned, remove them from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add finely diced onion, celery, carrot, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste
Stir in a couple of tablespoons of tomato paste along with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the paste to caramelize slightly. This technique deepens the flavor profile of the ragù, adding richness that will be thoroughly enjoyed.

Step 5: Deglaze
Pour in a cup of red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon to lift the flavorful bits stuck to the pan. Bring the wine to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly, enhancing the complexity of your hearty short rib ragù.

Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Return the seared short ribs to the pot and add in the broth, crushed tomatoes, and your herb bundle of rosemary, thyme, and parsley stems along with bay leaves. Stir everything together well, ensuring the ingredients are evenly mixed for optimal flavor infusion as it cooks.

Step 7: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a low simmer, then cover the pot slightly ajar to allow steam to escape. Let your ragù gently simmer for 2 to 2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the short ribs are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully.

Step 8: Shred Ribs
After the simmering time, carefully remove the bay leaves and herb bundle. You can shred the meat directly in the pot with two forks or remove it to shred separately—either way, ensure the meat is tender and easily falls apart for a melt-in-your-mouth experience in your short rib ragù.

Step 9: Adjust Seasoning
Taste the ragù and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper, or a splash of sherry or red wine vinegar to balance the flavors. This final touch brings everything together, enhancing the overall richness of your dish.

Step 10: Serve
Serve your hearty short rib ragù over cooked pasta, like tagliatelle or pappardelle, for a perfect pairing. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmigiano Reggiano, bringing a fresh burst of flavor to your comforting meal.

What to Serve with Hearty Slow-Cooked Short Rib Ragù

Transform your comforting meal into an unforgettable feast with these delightful pairings that enhance every bite.

Creamy Polenta: The smooth texture of polenta perfectly complements the rich ragù, creating a delightful contrast that warms your soul.
Garlic Bread: Crusty, buttery garlic bread offers a crispy element, ideal for scooping up every delicious bit of ragù.
Roasted Veggies: Seasoned vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts add a vibrant touch, balancing the hearty flavors with their natural sweetness and earthy notes.
Simple Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad of arugula or spinach dressed with lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate, ensuring a well-rounded dining experience.
Red Wine: A glass of robust red complements the richness of the ragù beautifully; think Chianti or Barolo for an authentic Italian touch.

Elevate your dinner table with these thoughtful pairings, each one adding its unique flair and comfort to the scrumptious short rib ragù experience!

Short Rib Ragù Variations You’ll Love

Feel free to make this hearty dish your own with delightful twists that cater to your taste buds!

Budget-Friendly Swap:
Stewing Beef: Replace short ribs with cubed stewing beef for a deliciously economical option, creating a comforting meal that saves both time and money.
Gluten-Free Alternative:
Zucchini Noodles: Try spiralized zucchini instead of pasta for a fresh, low-carb option that still pairs wonderfully with the rich ragù!
Extra Veggie Boost:
Mushroom Medley: Add sautéed mushrooms for a deeper umami flavor and an added veggie element, making this dish even more hearty and satisfying.
Herb Variations:
Italian Seasoning: For a flavor twist, incorporate Italian seasoning or fresh basil, adding aromatic notes that brighten each bite of your ragù.
Heat It Up:
Red Pepper Flakes: If you crave spice, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes while simmering for a warm kick that elevates the overall experience.
Flavorful Add-In:
Balsamic Vinegar: A splash of balsamic vinegar towards the end can amplify the sweetness and complexity, making your ragù even more savory and delicious.
Creative Use:
Lasagna Layering: Use the ragù as a filling for homemade lasagna or stuffed shells, creating a cozy dish that’s perfect for gatherings.
Side Dish Companion:
Creamy Polenta: Serve the ragù over a bed of creamy polenta for a comforting, rustic spin that’s sure to impress your guests—don’t forget to check our pasta pairing suggestions for more delicious options!

Expert Tips for Short Rib Ragù

Perfect Sear: Always get a nice brown crust on your short ribs by not overcrowding the pan; this adds crucial depth of flavor.
Monitor Liquid: Keep an eye on the pot during simmering. If it looks too dry, add more broth to keep your ragù from burning or drying out.
Herb Infusion: Be sure to remove the bay leaves and herb bundle before serving to avoid any tough textures in your delicious short rib ragù.
Season Wisely: Taste and adjust seasoning at the end. The dish may need a sprinkle of salt, pepper, or a touch of vinegar for perfect balance.
Make Ahead: This ragù improves in flavor if prepared a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and reheat for a comforting meal that tastes freshly made!
Pasta Pairing: Serve your ragù over wider pasta shapes like tagliatelle or pappardelle to hold more of that rich, hearty sauce.

How to Store and Freeze Short Rib Ragù

Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days for optimal freshness; it’s best stored separately from any pasta to maintain texture.
Freezer: Short rib ragù can be frozen for up to three months. Cool it completely before transferring to freezer bags or containers; label with the date.
Thawing: To enjoy again, thaw the ragù overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating on the stovetop over low heat.
Reheating: Stir occasionally while reheating to ensure even warming and prevent sticking. Add a splash of broth if needed for the perfect consistency.

Make Ahead Options

These hearty Slow-Cooked Short Rib Ragù are a dream for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the ribs up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, chop your vegetables (onion, celery, carrot, garlic) a day ahead and keep them in an airtight container to save precious time when you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to enjoy your ragù, simply sauté the vegetables, deglaze with wine, and follow the remaining steps as directed. This way, you’ll have a dish that’s just as delicious and comforting with minimal effort on busy weeknights!

Short Rib Ragu Recipe FAQs

What kind of beef short ribs should I use for the ragù?
Absolutely! For the best results, I recommend using de-boned beef short ribs cut into 2″ cubes. If you want to amp up the flavor, bone-in ribs can also be a fantastic option, adding extra richness to your ragù.

How should I store leftovers and how long will they last?
You can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To keep things tidy, I advise storing the ragù separately from any pasta to maintain their textures. This way, your meal stays fresh and enjoyable!

Can I freeze short rib ragù, and what’s the best method?
Yes, you can freeze your short rib ragù for up to three months! To do this, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. Be sure to label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator.

What should I do if my ragù is too thick after cooking?
If you find that your ragù has become too thick during cooking, don’t worry! It’s easily fixable. Just add a splash of beef broth or even some water to reach your desired consistency. Stir it in slowly and let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors nicely.

How do I adjust the seasoning in my ragù?
Adjusting the seasoning is a breeze! After cooking, taste the ragù and feel free to add more kosher salt, freshly cracked pepper, or a splash of sherry or red wine vinegar to balance the flavors. Just remember to do this gradually and taste as you go to find that perfect balance!

Are there any dietary considerations regarding this recipe?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, this recipe can be quite adaptable. For those avoiding alcohol, opt for stock instead of red wine, and substitute any vinegar as needed. Just be cautious with the use of salt if you are on a low-sodium diet, and adjust according to taste.