Short Rib Ragu
A rich, slow-cooked short rib ragu made with tender beef short ribs simmered in a savory tomato sauce. This comforting Italian-style ragu pairs perfectly with wide pasta and develops deep flavor as it cooks low and slow.
Ingredients
Short Rib Ragu
- 3 lb beef short ribs bone-in or boneless
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 large onion finely diced
- 2 carrots finely diced
- 2 celery stalks finely diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme or rosemary
- 1 Parmesan rind optional
For Serving
- Cooked pappardelle or tagliatelle pasta
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley optional
Instructions
Season and sear the short ribs
- Pat short ribs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs on all sides until deeply browned. Remove and set aside.
Build the flavor base
- Reduce heat to medium. Add onion, carrot, and celery to the pot. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
Add tomato paste and deglaze
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until slightly darkened. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Slow cook the ragu
- Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaves, herbs, and Parmesan rind if using. Return short ribs to the pot. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low heat for 2½–3 hours, until meat is fork-tender.
Shred the meat
- Remove short ribs from the pot. Discard bones and shred the meat. Return shredded beef to the sauce and simmer uncovered for 20–30 minutes until thickened.
Finish and serve
- Remove bay leaves and herb stems. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve over cooked pasta with grated Parmesan.
Notes
- Let the ragu rest for 15 minutes before serving for best flavor.
- The sauce thickens more as it cools.
- Flavor improves even more the next day.
Nutrition
Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 38gFat: 28gSaturated Fat: 12gFiber: 4gSugar: 7g
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