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Beef Short Rib Ragu with Creamy Parmesan Polenta

This rich and hearty Beef Short Rib Ragu served over creamy Parmesan polenta is a comforting dish perfect for cozy dinners. Tender short ribs simmer in a flavorful tomato sauce, paired beautifully with smooth, cheesy polenta.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs beef short ribs
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 cup dry red wine
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
  • 2 sprigs fresh thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup polenta (cornmeal)
  • 4 cups water
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper and brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes total. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in red wine to deglaze, scraping up browned bits. Let reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, rosemary, thyme, and return short ribs to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Cover pot and place in the oven. Cook for 3 hours or until ribs are very tender and falling off the bone.
  7. Remove ribs from sauce. Shred the meat and discard bones and herbs. Return meat to the sauce and stir well. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
  8. While the ragu cooks, bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in polenta and reduce heat to low.
  9. Cook polenta, stirring frequently, until thickened and creamy, about 20 minutes.
  10. Remove from heat and stir in butter and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  11. Serve the shredded short rib ragu over creamy Parmesan polenta. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Notes

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes to the ragu. This dish pairs wonderfully with a robust red wine.