As I stood in my cozy kitchen, the rich aroma of braised short ribs slowly filling the air, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of contentment wash over me. There’s something magical about slow-cooking these Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes—a dish that transforms a simple dinner into a delightful occasion. Not only do these savory ribs melt in your mouth, but the smooth, creamy garlic mashed potatoes act as a perfect companion, making it an ideal choice for a chilly evening. Plus, this gluten-free comfort food is a one-pot wonder, allowing for easy clean-up and more time to savor each bite. Curious how this recipe can elevate your dining experience? Let’s dive in!
Why Are These Short Ribs So Irresistible?
Perfectly Tender: The slow-cooked short ribs become incredibly tender, practically falling off the bone, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite.
Rich, Flavorful Sauce: Braised in a robust red wine sauce, these ribs boast layers of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing with delight.
Creamy Comfort: Paired with velvety garlic mashed potatoes, each serving promises a luxuriously comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.
Versatile and Easy: This one-pot wonder is not only simple to prepare but also versatile; feel free to add your favorite root vegetables for extra goodness!
If you’re a fan of Garlic Butter Lemon Salmon or enjoy a hearty Lemon Chicken and Potatoes dish, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Tender Braised Short Ribs Ingredients
• Prepare to create the most soothing comfort dish with these essential ingredients!
For the Short Ribs
- Beef Short Ribs – A rich source of flavor and fat that becomes tender through slow cooking.
- Red Wine – Infuses depth into the braising liquid; substitute with beef broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic option.
- Onions – Sweetens and enriches the sauce; don’t skip this key aromatic!
- Garlic – Adds a wonderful aroma and flavor, perfect for both the ribs and garlic mashed potatoes.
For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Potatoes (Yukon Gold/Russet) – The best varieties for creamy texture; feel free to substitute with cauliflower for a lower-carb alternative.
- Milk – Provides creaminess to the mash; use cream or dairy-free milk for added richness.
- Butter – Enhances flavor and smoothness in the mashed potatoes; olive oil makes a great dairy-free substitute.
- Garlic – Boil it with potatoes for an infused garlic flavor in your mash.
For Seasoning
- Herbs (Thyme/Rosemary) – They beautifully enhance the flavor profile of the dish; consider oregano or bay leaves for a unique twist.
- Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning the short ribs to perfection before cooking.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating unforgettable Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes that will surely impress your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Step 1: Prepare Ingredients
Begin by seasoning the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper, allowing the flavors to absorb for about 15 minutes. While the ribs are resting, chop the onions and garlic, ensuring they’re ready to infuse their aromatic goodness into your braising dish.
Step 2: Sear Ribs
In a heavy cast-iron Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the seasoned short ribs in batches, browning on all sides for 5–7 minutes until a deep golden crust forms. This step helps build the rich flavors essential in your Tender Braised Short Ribs.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Remove the browned short ribs from the pot and set them aside on a plate. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing them for about 3–4 minutes until they soften and become translucent, creating a fragrant base for your red wine sauce.
Step 4: Deglaze
Pour in 1 cup of red wine, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Allow the wine to simmer for 5 minutes, reducing by half; this intensifies the flavors and enhances the sauce’s richness for the braised short ribs.
Step 5: Braise
Return the seared short ribs to the pot, adding 2 cups of beef broth and your choice of herbs, such as thyme and rosemary. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer gently for 2.5 to 3 hours until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone, creating a comforting dish.
Step 6: Make Garlic Mash
While the ribs are braising, prepare the garlic mashed potatoes. In a large pot, boil peeled Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes and a few cloves of garlic in salted water for about 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and garlic, returning them to the pot for mashing.
Step 7: Mash and Combine
Add ½ cup of milk and 4 tablespoons of butter to the drained potatoes and garlic. Mash together until creamy and smooth, ensuring not to overwork the mixture to prevent a gummy texture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste as you complete the velvety garlic mashed potatoes.
Step 8: Serve
To plate, scoop a generous portion of creamy garlic mashed potatoes onto each plate, then place the tender braised short ribs on top. Drizzle your dish with the rich pan sauce, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation, making your meal truly special.
What to Serve with Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Cozy up your dinner table with delightful sides that elevate your comforting braised short ribs experience.
-
Roasted Root Vegetables:
A medley of sweet carrots, parsnips, and beets brings earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the rich braising sauce. -
Fresh Garden Salad:
Crisp greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast to the tender, hearty short ribs, balancing your plate perfectly. -
Crusty Bread:
A rustic loaf is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce, adding a satisfying crunch to your meal. -
Garlic Green Beans:
Sautéed green beans with garlic add a vibrant color and fresh flavor, creating a delicious textural contrast on your plate. -
Creamy Polenta:
With its delicate corn flavor and creamy texture, polenta is a delightful alternative to mashed potatoes that harmonizes beautifully with the short ribs. -
Zinfandel Wine:
A glass of smooth Zinfandel complements the robust flavors of the dish, enhancing the overall dining experience with its fruity notes. -
Chocolate Lava Cake:
End your meal on a sweet note with a rich chocolate dessert that’s warm and gooey, offering a charming contrast to the savory main dish.
Each of these pairings will not only enhance the flavors of the Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes but will also create an enticing, well-rounded meal experience for you and your loved ones.
How to Store and Freeze Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain the flavors and keep your dish fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the short ribs and garlic mashed potatoes separately in airtight containers. They can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge then warm gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. This keeps the short ribs tender and the garlic mashed potatoes creamy.
Make-Ahead Tip: Consider preparing this gluten-free comfort food a day in advance! The flavors deepen and improve, making it a fantastic easy dinner solution.
Make Ahead Options
These Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time on busy weeknights! You can braise the short ribs up to 24 hours in advance; simply cook them through, let them cool, and refrigerate in their braising liquid to maintain moisture and flavor. The garlic mashed potatoes can also be prepared ahead—just boil, mash, and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When it’s time to serve, gently reheat both the short ribs and the mashed potatoes on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to the mash to keep it creamy. With these make-ahead tips, you can enjoy a comforting, homemade meal with minimal effort!
Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Variations
Feel free to personalize your dish and make it your own with these delightful variations!
- Lamb Shanks: Swap beef short ribs for lamb shanks for a unique flavor twist that offers a completely different taste profile.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free beef broth in place of red wine for a comforting, non-alcoholic option that still packs a punch.
- Roasted Garlic: For milder notes, substitute fresh garlic with roasted garlic in your mashed potatoes; the flavor becomes sweeter and more complex.
- Cauliflower Mash: Replace potatoes with steamed cauliflower for a low-carb version of your garlic mashed potatoes, ideal for those watching their carbs.
- Creamy Alternatives: Instead of milk, try coconut cream for a dairy-free version, adding a lovely tropical hint to your creamy mash.
- Vegetable Medley: Include carrots, celery, and parsnips in the braising liquid for enhanced flavor and nutrition that also brings a splash of color to your plate.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the braising liquid for a delightful, warming heat that complements the richness of the dish.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like sage or basil to elevate the aromatic profile of both the ribs and the garlic mash.
Each of these options invites you to create a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion! If you’re intrigued by other delicious recipes, take a look at these delightful dishes: Best Stuffed Shells with Ground Beef or try a mouthwatering Garlicky Calamari with Basil Lime. Enjoy the journey of cooking!
Expert Tips for Tender Braised Short Ribs
- Even Layering: Ensure short ribs are arranged in a single layer for even cooking, preventing tough spots or uneven tenderness.
- Gentle Mixing: When mashing the potatoes, combine ingredients just until smooth; avoid overworking to keep the garlic mashed potatoes fluffy.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish a day in advance; letting it rest overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully when reheated.
- Optimal Searing: Brown ribs in small batches—crowding the pot can lead to steaming instead of the desired browning, affecting flavor.
- Flavor Boost: Add veggies like carrots or celery during braising for extra nutrition and flavor enhancement in your Tender Braised Short Ribs.
Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs
What type of short ribs should I use for maximum tenderness?
For the most tender results, I recommend using beef short ribs. When selecting, look for ribs with good marbling of fat, which helps keep the meat juicy and flavorful as it braises. If you can’t find short ribs, chuck or plate short ribs are suitable alternatives.
How can I tell when the potatoes for garlic mashed potatoes are done?
The potatoes are ready when you can easily pierce them with a fork, typically around 15–20 minutes of boiling. They should be fork-tender but not falling apart, as you want a smooth, creamy mash. Rinse them after draining but return them to the pot quickly to retain some warmth for mashing.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of this dish?
To keep your delicious Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to separate the ribs from the mashed potatoes, as this will help maintain texture and moisture.
Can I freeze the braised short ribs and garlic mashed potatoes?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the short ribs and garlic mashed potatoes in airtight containers. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to ensure they maintain their wonderful texture and flavor.
What if my sauce turns out too thin?
If you find your braising sauce is thinner than you’d like, simply pour it into a saucepan after cooking. Simmer it over medium heat for about 5–10 minutes to reduce and thicken it. Alternatively, you could mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and add it to the simmering sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Are these short ribs suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check that your beef broth and any additional ingredients you use are labeled gluten-free. It’s always a good idea to double-check labels if you or your guests have dietary restrictions.
Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Season the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper and let them absorb the flavors for about 15 minutes. Chop the onions and garlic.
- Sear Ribs: In a Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned short ribs in batches, browning on all sides for 5–7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Remove the ribs and add chopped onions and garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Deglaze: Pour in 1 cup of red wine, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Simmer for 5 minutes until reduced by half.
- Braise: Return the ribs, add 2 cups of beef broth and herbs. Cover and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours until tender.
- Make Garlic Mash: Boil potatoes and garlic in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.
- Mash and Combine: Add 1/2 cup milk and 4 tablespoons butter to the potatoes and garlic. Mash until creamy, adjusting seasoning.
- Serve: Scoop garlic mashed potatoes onto each plate and top with the short ribs. Drizzle with pan sauce and garnish as desired.
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