Short Rib Ragu

Total Time Prep: 30 min. Cook: 7 hours

Yield 12 servings

This rich, hearty short rib ragu is made in the slow cooker. The tomato-wine sauce is decadent, and the short ribs are so tender you can cut them with a fork.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 pounds boneless beef short ribs, cut into 2-inch pieces
8 ounces sliced mushrooms
1 small onion, chopped
2 small carrots, peeled and chopped
2 bay leaves
1 can (12 ounces) tomato paste
1/2 cup dry red wine
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 pound pappardelle
Grated or shaved Parmesan cheese, optional

Directions

In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat; brown meat in batches. Transfer meat to a 5- or 6-quart slow cooker. Add mushrooms, onion, carrots and bay leaves.
Add tomato paste, wine, garlic and seasonings to the skillet. Cook and stir over medium heat until fragrant and slightly darkened, 2-4 minutes. Stir in diced tomatoes until blended. Transfer mixture to slow cooker; cover. Cook on low until beef is tender, 7-9 hours. Discard bay leaves.
Cook pasta according to package directions for al dente. Serve ragu over pasta. If desired, serve with Parmesan cheese.

Nutrition Facts

3/4 cup ragu over 3/4 cup pasta: 302 calories, 8g fat (3g saturated fat), 31mg cholesterol, 328mg sodium, 39g carbohydrate (7g sugars, 4g fiber), 18g protein.

An irresistible sauce gives the beef in this short rib ragu another dimension of flavor. Nearly any starchy side, such as potatoes or polenta, will work in place of the pasta. Short ribs are my crowd-pleaser weekend meal for all occasions. —Missy Raho, Morristown, New Jersey

Recipe Creator