Dutch Oven Short Rib Ragu: 6 Steps to Comfort Food

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Dutch Oven Short Rib offers a hearty and comforting meal perfect for cozy nights. This delectable dish, featuring tender short ribs simmered with rich flavors, is a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions. The slow-cooked perfection of the ribs, combined with a creamy sauce and pasta, makes it an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Let’s dive into this classic Dutch oven short rib recipe and learn how to cook it to perfection!

Why You’ll Love This Dutch Oven Short Rib

This Dutch Oven Short Rib recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons to love it:

Rich and hearty flavors that warm the soul.
A perfect choice for an easy Dutch oven short rib dinner.
Simple ingredients make it accessible for all home cooks.
Slow-cooked short ribs in Dutch oven yield tender meat.
It’s a gourmet Dutch oven short rib meal you can impress guests with.
Family-friendly and great for meal prep.

Plus, it falls under the Italian cuisine category, making it a beloved dish in many households.

Ingredients for Dutch Oven Short Rib

Gather these items:

3 pounds Boneless Short Ribs (Choose boneless to reduce greasiness.)
1 medium Onion (Part of the soffritto.)
2 stalks Celery (Part of the soffritto.)
2 medium Carrots (Part of the soffritto.)
2 cloves Garlic (Use more for extra garlicky punch.)
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Adds richness to the sauce.)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire Sauce (Adds tangy flavor.)
28 ounces Crushed Tomatoes (Forms the core of the sauce.)
2 cups Chicken Broth (Homemade stock is best.)
1 cup Heavy Cream (Adds creaminess.)
1 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated yields best results.)
12 ounces Pappardelle Pasta (Broad shape perfect for sauce.)

How to Make Dutch Oven Short Rib Step-by-Step

Step 1: Prepare the short ribs by patting them dry and trimming excess fat. Season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Brown the short ribs in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat with olive oil for 4-5 minutes on each side.
Step 3: Sauté chopped onion, celery, and carrot in the same pot for about 15 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Step 4: Add minced garlic, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for an additional minute.
Step 5: Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, then return short ribs to the pot. Simmer for 2½ to 3 hours.
Step 6: Cook pappardelle pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes.
Step 7: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the ragu for a creamy consistency, then simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 8: Toss the cooked pappardelle with the ragu, adding reserved pasta water if needed for desired consistency.

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Pro Tips for the Best Dutch Oven Short Rib

Keep these in mind:

Choose boneless short ribs for less greasiness.
Let the meat rest after cooking for enhanced tenderness.
Use homemade chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Perfectly cooked short ribs in Dutch oven require patience—don’t rush the simmering process.

Best Ways to Serve Dutch Oven Short Rib

Pair this amazing dish with:

Crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Fresh green salad for a refreshing contrast.
Italian red wine to enhance the flavors of the meal.

How to Store and Reheat Dutch Oven Short Rib

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. This dish is perfect for meal prep since it tastes even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About Dutch Oven Short Rib

What’s the secret to perfect Dutch Oven Short Rib?

The secret lies in the slow cooking process. This method allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become perfectly tender. For optimal results, ensure you sear the ribs well before simmering.

Can I make Dutch Oven Short Rib ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare this dish a day in advance. Just reheat it before serving, and the flavors will be even more pronounced, making it an easy weeknight dinner option.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Dutch Oven Short Rib?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you trim excess fat from the ribs, use quality ingredients, and allow enough time for the ribs to simmer until they are tender. Following the recipe closely will help you achieve the best results.

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Variations of Dutch Oven Short Rib You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Try a Dutch oven short rib stew recipe by adding root vegetables like potatoes and turnips.
For a twist, make a Dutch oven barbecue short ribs version using your favorite barbecue sauce.
Explore a red wine variant for a richer sauce—perfect for a special occasion!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Gingerbread Tiramisu or Cranberry Custard Pie. If you’re looking for a comforting side, try our Honey Roasted Root Vegetables.