Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Delicious Sunday Dinner Ideas

Name: Tender Short Rib Ragu Over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Delicious Sunday Dinner Ideas
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs short ribs; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup red wine; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 cups beef broth; 2 sprigs fresh thyme; 2 bay leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Indulge in the rich flavors of tender short rib ragu served over creamy parmesan mashed potatoes. This dish is a perfect choice for a comforting Sunday dinner.

Created by

Lucy Bennett

Last updated on 2025-12-11T12:42:49.365Z

This dish is a labor of love, perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner with family and friends. The tenderness of the short ribs combined with the rich sauce elevates the creamy mashed potatoes to a whole new level.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that warm your soul
Creamy mashed potatoes that complement the ragu perfectly
An impressive dish that’s easy to prepare for gatherings

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

There's something undeniably comforting about a hearty dish that combines rich flavors and creamy textures. This Tender Short Rib Ragu over Silky Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is not just a meal; it's an experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to the soul. The tender short ribs simmered to perfection create a sauce that's both savory and aromatic, while the mashed potatoes provide a luxurious base that complements the ragu beautifully.

Perfect for chilly evenings or special gatherings, this dish elevates your dining experience without requiring extensive culinary skills. Whether you're cooking for family or friends, the inviting aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone eagerly anticipating dinner. Plus, with the ease of preparation, you’ll impress your guests, leaving them to wonder how you managed to create such a delicious meal.

A Match Made in Culinary Heaven

The combination of short ribs and parmesan mashed potatoes is truly a match made in culinary heaven. As the short ribs braise, they release their flavors into the sauce, creating a deep, rich profile that pairs wonderfully with the creamy, cheesy mashed potatoes. This harmony of flavors not only satisfies your hunger but also delights your taste buds with every bite.

Additionally, the simplicity of the ingredients used allows you to appreciate the natural flavors of each element. The short ribs provide a meaty richness, while the mashed potatoes offer a comforting creaminess, making this dish a well-rounded meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Tips for Success

To ensure your ragu turns out perfectly, choose high-quality short ribs and give them a good sear before simmering. This step locks in flavor and adds a delightful depth to your sauce. Don't rush the cooking process; allowing the ragu to simmer low and slow is key to achieving that tender, fall-off-the-bone texture that you desire.

When it comes to the mashed potatoes, using russet potatoes is essential for that fluffy, creamy consistency. Make sure to mash them while they're still warm and incorporate the butter and cream gradually. This technique helps achieve the perfect texture and ensures a rich flavor that will enhance the overall dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

For the Short Rib Ragu

2 lbs short ribs
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup red wine
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 sprigs fresh thyme
2 bay leaves
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious dinner:

Prepare the Short Rib Ragu

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them on all sides until browned. Remove and set aside.

Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, and bay leaves.

Return the short ribs to the pot, bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for about 2 hours or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.

Make the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

While the ragu is cooking, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.

Add the butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Once the short rib ragu is ready, remove the meat and shred it, discarding any bones. Stir the shredded meat back into the sauce. Serve the ragu over a generous scoop of parmesan mashed potatoes. Enjoy!

Enjoy your hearty meal!

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to pairing wine with this tender short rib ragu, consider a robust red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot. These wines complement the rich flavors of the ragu and enhance the overall dining experience. Serve a glass alongside your meal to elevate the flavors and enjoy a truly indulgent evening.

For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad with fresh greens and a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich ragu and creamy mashed potatoes, rounding out your Sunday dinner beautifully.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, you're in for a treat! Store the ragu and mashed potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to enjoy your meal again, simply reheat the ragu on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

For the mashed potatoes, you may want to add a splash of cream or milk while reheating to restore their creamy texture. This dish holds up well, so you can enjoy the comforting flavors of your Sunday dinner even on a busy weeknight.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different cut of meat?

Yes, you can use chuck roast or brisket as alternatives to short ribs.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The ragu tastes even better the next day. Just reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple green salad or roasted vegetables would complement this meal perfectly.