Pappardelle With Braised Short Ribs Recipe
Tender short ribs meet broad pappardelle for a comforting, savory pasta dish perfect for special dinners.
There’s something deeply comforting about the marriage of tender, slow-braised short ribs and wide, silky pappardelle. It’s a meal that wraps you in a warm embrace, with a rich aroma of red wine and rosemary filling the kitchen as it simmers away. This dish is the epitome of a cozy dinner, meant to be savored slowly, with good company. This recipe has roots in Italian cooking, where slow-braising is a revered technique to coax out deep flavors from simpler cuts of meat. I remember the first time I tried a similar dish in a small trattoria, where the chef ladled the savory sauce over fresh pasta with the pride of sharing a family secret. What makes this recipe truly shine is the attention to detail in layering flavors. Browning the short ribs in the beginning seals in their juices, and deglazing the pan with red wine adds depth. Plus, allowing the sauce to reduce after long cooking ensures that every bite is packed with concentrated flavor. Serve this hearty dish on a chilly evening or when you’re in need of a meal that feels like a hug from the inside. Pair it with a simple arugula salad and a glass of the same red wine used in the sauce to make this meal unforgettable.
Step-by-Step
- 01Step 1 / 7
Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
Sear the ribs on all sides until browned, about 8 minutes.
Remove and set aside.
- 02Step 2 / 7
In the same pot, add onion and carrots.
Cook until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add garlic and tomato paste, stirring for 1 minute.
- 03Step 3 / 7
Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
Bring to a simmer and reduce by half, about 10 minutes.
- 04Step 4 / 7
Return the ribs to the pot.
Add beef stock, rosemary, and bay leaves.
Bring to a simmer, cover, and transfer to a 300°F (150°C) oven.
Braise until ribs are tender, about 2½ to 3 hours.
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- 05Step 5 / 7
Remove the ribs from the pot and shred meat, discarding bones and excess fat.
Return meat to the sauce and heat gently on the stovetop.
- 06Step 6 / 7
Meanwhile, cook pappardelle in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente.
Drain and toss with the braised ribs and sauce.
- 07Step 7 / 7
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.
Enjoy immediately.
Chef Tips
- •For extra flavor, marinate the short ribs in red wine and herbs overnight before cooking.
- •Be patient with browning the short ribs; proper searing is key to building flavor.
- •Use a good quality dry red wine; it makes a noticeable difference in the sauce.
- •Pappardelle can be swapped for tagliatelle if needed, but wide pasta is ideal for this hearty sauce.
- •Leftover sauce can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat gently when ready to use.
Nutrition (per serving)
Estimates only. Actual values depend on brands and portions.
Frequently Asked
Can I make this ahead?+
Yes, the short ribs can be braised a day in advance. Let them cool in the sauce, then refrigerate. Reheat gently before serving with pasta.
What can I substitute?+
If you don't have pappardelle, tagliatelle or fettuccine are good alternatives. For herbs, thyme or sage can replace rosemary.
How do I store leftovers?+
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of water if needed.