Parmesan Mashed Potatoes with Beef Gravy

If you are ready to dive into a soul-warming, hearty meal, this Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs slow-cooked in a rich, herb-infused tomato sauce, paired with creamy mashed potatoes enhanced by savory Parmesan cheese. As you savor every bite, you’ll remember to Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate—a simple step that brings the whole dish together with comfort and elegance. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to celebrate good food and good company.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of humble, fresh ingredients can transform into such an unforgettable dish. Each one plays a crucial role, from the richness of the beef short ribs to the delicate balance of herbs, and the smooth texture of the Parmesan mashed potatoes.

• Beef short ribs (3-4 pounds): The star ingredient that provides deep, beefy flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture with slow cooking.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): For browning the ribs and sautéing vegetables to build flavor.
• Onion, chopped (1 large): Adds natural sweetness and depth to the ragu base.
• Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Infuses an aromatic punch that complements the savory elements.
• Carrots, peeled and chopped (2): Brings slight sweetness and texture contrast to the sauce.
• Celery stalks, chopped (2): Provides earthiness and balances the tomato acidity.
• Crushed tomatoes (2 cups): The tangy backbone of the ragu that ties all flavors together.
• Beef broth (1 cup): Enhances the meaty richness and moisture for slow braising.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds a fragrant herbal note.
• Dried rosemary (1 teaspoon): Contributes an aromatic woodsy flavor.
• Bay leaf (1): A classic touch to deepen the sauce’s complexity.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and highlighting flavors.
• Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For a burst of freshness and color when serving.
• Russet potatoes (2 pounds): The perfect choice for creamy mashed potatoes due to their starchy nature.
• Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): Enriches the potatoes with a silky texture.
• Milk (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and smoothness to mashed potatoes.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a nutty, savory depth that elevates the potatoes to a new level.

How to Make Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate

Step 1: Brown the Short Ribs

Start by heating olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Brown them on all sides, which usually takes about 10 minutes. This step creates caramelized edges enhancing flavor and locks in juices. When beautifully browned, carefully remove and set them aside to make room for the vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Using the same pot with all that wonderful beefy goodness, toss in the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5 to 7 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness. Add minced garlic last and cook for just another minute to avoid bitterness, while building layers of aroma.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Base

Stir in the tomato paste and cook it for 2 to 3 minutes until it darkens slightly—this step deepens flavor like magic. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Mix everything so the sauce starts coming together beautifully with those fresh veggies.

Step 4: Add Herbs and Simmer with Short Ribs

Drop in the dried thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to add fragrant herbal notes throughout the sauce. Place the browned short ribs back into the pot, making sure they’re nestled mostly under the sauce. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low for a slow braise, letting those ribs cook gently for 3 to 4 hours until the meat is incredibly tender and ready to melt off the bone.

Step 5: Shred the Meat and Finish the Ragu

When the ribs are fork-tender, carefully remove them and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and return the shredded beef to the sauce. Stir well to coat every bite in the luscious ragu. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper so everything sings together perfectly.

Step 6: Prepare the Parmesan Mashed Potatoes

While the ragu is slow cooking, boil peeled and chopped russet potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, usually 15 to 20 minutes. Drain and return them to the pot. Add unsalted butter and milk, mashing everything until heavenly smooth. Now, here’s the fun and flavorful twist: stir in grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt and pepper. This step gives the mashed potatoes a savory punch you simply can’t resist.

Step 7: Plate with Love by Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate

Time to bring it all together. Spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate to form a creamy, comforting base. Then ladle the luscious short rib ragu over the top. Remember, spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate because this is where all your hard work shines—creamy potatoes meet bold, rich meat perfectly in every mouthful.

How to Serve  

Garnishes

For that final elegance, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. It adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh, herbal brightness that cuts through the richness beautifully. You could also add a little extra Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent.

Side Dishes

This dish stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness. Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts also offer great texture contrast and a healthy pop of color to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a rustic family-style dinner, serve the ragu in a big bowl alongside a platter of Parmesan mashed potatoes so everyone can help themselves. If entertaining, consider individual shallow bowls with the ragu centered neatly on a bed of mashed potatoes. Either way, always spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate to showcase the luxurious heartiness of the dish.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover short rib ragu and Parmesan mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them apart helps maintain the perfect creamy texture of the potatoes and keeps the ragu sauce fresh.

Freezing

You can freeze both components for longer storage. The ragu freezes beautifully and tastes even better after some time as flavors meld. Freeze in portions, and for the mashed potatoes, slightly under-mash before freezing to avoid a watery texture once reheated.

Reheating

Reheat the ragu gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Warm the mashed potatoes in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. Don’t forget to spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate before topping with warm ragu when serving.

FAQs

Can I use boneless short ribs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless short ribs will work, but bone-in ribs add more richness and flavor during slow cooking. If using boneless, be mindful not to overcook to keep meat tender.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

Grana Padano or Pecorino Romano are great alternatives with similar savory and nutty qualities that enrich the mashed potatoes nicely.

How do I keep mashed potatoes creamy when reheating?

Reheat gently over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring in a little milk or butter to restore creaminess as needed.

Can I make the ragu in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the ribs and sauté veggies on the stove then transfer everything to a slow cooker for 6-8 hours on low for tender, flavorful results.

Is it necessary to peel the potatoes for mashed potatoes?

Peeling is traditional for smooth mashed potatoes, but if you love extra texture and rustic feel, leaving the skins on is perfectly fine as long as they’re scrubbed clean.

Final Thoughts

This Short Rib Ragu with Parmesan Mashed Potatoes is a comforting masterpiece that brings warmth, flavor, and a bit of indulgence to your table. From the slow-cooked richness of the ragu to the silky, savory mashed potatoes, every bite is a celebration of simple ingredients transformed by love and patience. Don’t forget to spoon a generous portion of the Parmesan mashed potatoes onto each plate—it’s the key to making this dish truly special. Give it a try, share it with those you love, and enjoy every delicious moment!

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