Cold weekends often call for a dish that can linger on the stove, filling the kitchen with a kind of warmth that seeps into every corner of the house. That’s where short rib ragù comes in—a sauce that takes its time, but rewards every minute with layers of flavor that simply can’t be rushed. The rhythm of chopping onions and carrots, the sizzle of garlic in olive oil, and the deep browning of the beef create the kind of cooking moment that feels grounding and steady.

Once the red wine meets the pan, the transformation begins. The sound shifts from sharp sizzling to a slow simmer, and the scent becomes bold, almost velvety. Tomatoes melt into the mix, herbs release their fragrance, and the sauce finds its rhythm. It’s a process that doesn’t demand much hands-on attention, only trust—trust that the ingredients will do their work if given the time.

By the time the short ribs surrender and fall apart at the touch, the ragù has developed into something rich and soulful. Tossed with wide ribbons of tagliatelle and crowned with freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, it turns into a dish that feels both rustic and elegant, as fitting for a quiet evening at home as it is for a table surrounded by guests.

Savory Short Rib Ragu - PP174 Thumb Savory Short Rib Ragu

Short Description

Savory Short Rib Ragu is a hearty, slow-simmered pasta sauce made with tender beef short ribs, aromatic vegetables, red wine, and herbs. Rich in flavor and comforting in texture, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a special gathering.

Key Ingredients

2 pounds short ribs, deboned and cut into cubes (or bone-in for more flavor)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 cup dry red wine
1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
1 herb bundle (rosemary, thyme, and parsley stems)
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
½ cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano, plus extra for serving
¼ cup parsley leaves, chopped, for garnish
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 pound tagliatelle pasta

Tools Needed

Large Dutch oven or heavy braiser
Wooden spoon
Chef’s knife and cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Cheese grater
Ladle and tongs

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Sear the ribs
Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the short ribs in batches and sear until browned on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate.

Step 2: Cook the vegetables
In the same pot, add onion, celery, carrot, and garlic. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Add tomato paste
Stir in the tomato paste with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 4: Deglaze with wine
Pour in the red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly reduced.

Step 5: Add the ribs and tomatoes
Return the seared ribs to the pot. Stir in crushed tomatoes and beef broth.

Step 6: Simmer with herbs
Add the herb bundle. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally. The beef should become fork-tender.

Step 7: Shred the beef
Remove the herb bundle. Take out the ribs and shred the beef, discarding bones if necessary. Return shredded beef to the pot.

Step 8: Finish the sauce
Stir in sherry vinegar and adjust seasoning. Toss with cooked tagliatelle, then top with Parmigiano Reggiano and parsley. Serve hot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep, rich flavors from slow cooking

Surprisingly easy prep with mostly hands-off time

Comfort food that feels gourmet

Perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests

Leftovers taste even better the next day

Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions

Skipping the sear: Don’t rush past browning the ribs. The caramelization adds depth.

Adding wine too late: Wine should deglaze the pot before liquids go in, or it will taste raw.

Overcooking pasta: Always cook tagliatelle al dente, then let it finish in the sauce.

Not tasting at the end: Flavors change during long cooking. Adjust salt, pepper, and vinegar before serving.

Using pre-grated parmesan: Freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano makes all the difference.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Serve over tagliatelle or pappardelle for a rustic Italian feel.

Pair with a green side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.

Add a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Wine pairing: a medium-bodied red like Chianti, Barbera, or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low, adding a splash of broth if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! The flavors develop even more if made a day in advance.

2. Do I have to use short ribs?
No, chuck roast or stewing beef cubes also work well.

3. Can I skip the wine?
You can replace it with extra beef broth, but wine adds depth.

4. What pasta works best?
Wide, flat pasta like tagliatelle or pappardelle clings beautifully to the sauce.

5. How do I make it lighter?
Use less oil, leaner beef, and serve with zucchini noodles instead of pasta.

Tips & Tricks

For a silkier sauce, blend half the vegetables before returning beef.

Tie the herb bundle with kitchen twine for easy removal.

Save parmesan rinds to simmer with the sauce for extra richness.

If the sauce is too thick, add a ladle of pasta cooking water.

Always serve in warm bowls so the ragù stays hot.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Ragù: Add 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Mushroom Ragù: Add 2 cups sliced mushrooms after the vegetables for earthy depth.

White Wine Ragù: Swap red wine for white and use chicken stock instead of beef.

Vegetable Ragù: Replace beef with eggplant and zucchini, cooking the same way.

Creamy Ragù: Stir in ½ cup heavy cream at the end for a luscious finish.

Final Thoughts

Short rib ragù proves how patience in cooking can be its own reward. The slow simmer transforms a few simple ingredients into a sauce layered with character, where every bite carries depth and comfort.

Served over pasta, spooned onto polenta, or paired with crusty bread, this dish always manages to feel generous. It doesn’t need embellishment—just a table, some company, and the time to enjoy it properly.