Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta

If you’ve ever wished for a dish that feels like a warm, hearty hug after a long day, look no further than Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta. This recipe brings together tender, melt-in-your-mouth short ribs slowly cooked to perfection in a rich, savory sauce, paired beautifully with your favorite pasta. Each bite is deeply flavorful and utterly satisfying, making it a perfect dinner for gatherings or a comforting meal anytime you crave something special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unmatched Depth of Flavor: Slow simmering infuses the short ribs with rich, robust taste that elevates the entire dish.
• Perfect Comfort Food: This sauce-laden pasta is both filling and soul-soothing, ideal for family dinners.
• Versatile and Customizable: The recipe easily adapts to different pasta shapes and dietary preferences.
• Impress Guests Easily: Though it takes time, the prep is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy the process and impress effortlessly.
• Leftovers That Taste Even Better: Flavors blend even more after resting, making next-day meals a true delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta lies in simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients that work together to build complex texture and flavor. Each element contributes to the bold profile, tender meat, or vibrant appearance of this dish.

• Beef Short Ribs: Choose well-marbled ribs for maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.
• Aromatic Vegetables: Onion, carrots, and celery add sweetness and depth to the sauce base.
• Tomato Paste and Crushed Tomatoes: Provide rich body and natural acidity that balance the meat’s richness.
• Red Wine: Incorporates subtle fruitiness and enhances umami complexity.
• Garlic and Fresh Herbs: Garlic for punch, and rosemary or thyme for earthiness.
• Beef Broth: A savory liquid foundation that helps tenderize the ribs.
• Pasta of Choice: Wide noodles like pappardelle or fettuccine work best to catch the luscious sauce.
• Olive Oil: For searing and adding a silky finish to the sauce.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to make every flavor shine.

Variations for Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta

Feel free to tailor this classic to your taste buds or dietary needs. The beauty of Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta is how effortlessly it adapts without losing any of its comforting qualities.

• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes during simmering for a subtle heat that complements the rich meat.
• White Wine Swap: Replace red wine with dry white wine for a lighter acid tone in the sauce.
• Mushroom Boost: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms for extra umami and texture.
• Slow Cooker Method: Use a slow cooker to set and forget the simmering process for perfect tenderness.
• Gluten-Free Option: Serve over gluten-free pasta or polenta, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to indulge.

How to Make Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta

Step 1: Preparing and Searing the Short Ribs

Pat the short ribs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat and sear the ribs on all sides until golden brown. This step locks in flavor and creates a lovely crust that adds depth to the sauce.

Step 2: Building the Sauce Base

Remove the ribs and add chopped onions, carrots, and celery to the same pot. Stir and sauté until softened and fragrant. Add minced garlic and cook briefly. Then, stir in tomato paste and let it toast slightly to reduce rawness and enhance sweetness.

Step 3: Deglazing and Adding Liquids

Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to lift all the browned bits, which carry intense flavor. Let the wine reduce by half to concentrate the taste. Then add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme. Nestle the seared ribs back into the pot.

Step 4: Slow Simmering the Sauce

Bring the entire mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cover partially. Let it cook slowly for 3 to 4 hours, until the short ribs are fork-tender and the sauce has thickened into a luscious, rich consistency.

Step 5: Preparing the Pasta

Cook your pasta of choice according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve a small cup of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Step 6: Finishing Touches and Serving

Remove ribs from the sauce and shred off the bone. Return shredded meat to the sauce and stir to combine. If the sauce needs loosening, add reserved pasta water little by little. Toss the pasta directly in the sauce, ensuring every strand or ribbon is gloriously coated.

Pro Tips for Making Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta

• Patience Pays Off: Slow cooking is essential to tenderize the short ribs and develop rich sauce flavors.
• Don’t Rush Searing: A proper sear creates the foundational flavors for your sauce.
• Choose the Right Pasta: Wide, flat pasta holds this hearty sauce best, ensuring every bite is balanced.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Use it to adjust sauce texture without diluting flavors.
• Skim Fat if Needed: For a lighter sauce, gently skim excess fat after cooking but before shredding the meat.

How to Serve Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal note to balance the richness. A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese enriches the final presentation and adds a pleasant saltiness.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to brighten each bite. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread works perfectly for soaking up every drop of that deep, savory sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the pasta twirled high in the center of shallow bowls, topped with generous chunks of short rib and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. For a rustic touch, serve family-style in a warm casserole dish with a side of roasted vegetables.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled sauce and meat in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.

Freezing

Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta freezes beautifully—store sauce and pasta separately in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months to maintain texture and flavor.

Reheating

Gently reheat sauce on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Reheat pasta by briefly dipping it in boiling water or microwaving with a splash of water to avoid drying out.

FAQs

Can I use other cuts of beef instead of short ribs?

Yes, chuck roast or brisket work well but keep in mind they may require slightly different cooking times to become tender.

Is red wine necessary for the sauce?

While red wine adds a rich depth, you can substitute beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic version without losing too much flavor.

How long should I simmer the sauce?

Simmering for at least 3 hours is ideal to break down the short ribs fully and concentrate the sauce flavors.

What pasta pairs best with this sauce?

Wide noodles like pappardelle, fettuccine, or rigatoni hold up well to the thick, hearty sauce.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté aromatics first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Final Thoughts

Slow Simmered Short Rib Sauce with Pasta is truly a labor of love that rewards with unforgettable flavor and comfort. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in, I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every slow-cooked, tender bite of rich, savory goodness.

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