Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes deliver the ultimate comfort food experience — slow-cooked, fall-off-the-bone beef paired with velvety, buttery garlic mash. This dish transforms everyday ingredients into a restaurant-quality dinner perfect for holidays, Sunday family meals, or cozy nights in. The deep, savory flavor of braised beef blends perfectly with creamy garlic mashed potatoes, creating a meal that feels both luxurious and comforting.

Whether you’re preparing an elegant dinner or craving something hearty and homey, this Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe guarantees melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and rich flavor every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unbelievably tender texture: Slow braising ensures the short ribs literally fall off the bone.

• Rich, deep flavor: Layers of red wine, tomato paste, and herbs create a luxurious sauce.

• Creamy garlic mash: Buttery, smooth potatoes complement the beef beautifully.

• Perfect for special occasions: An elegant meal for holidays or dinner parties.

• Make-ahead friendly: Even better the next day as the flavors deepen overnight.

• Comfort in every bite: Hearty, cozy, and warming — a true soul-satisfying dish.

• Versatile method: Works in oven, slow cooker, or Dutch oven.

• Impressive yet easy: Minimal prep for gourmet results at home.

Ingredients 

For the Braised Short Ribs

• 4 lbs beef short ribs – Choose bone-in for maximum flavor and moisture.

• 2 tbsp olive oil – Helps brown the meat beautifully.

• 1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.

• 2 carrots, chopped – Balances the richness of the beef.

• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances savory depth.

• 2 tbsp tomato paste – Adds color and umami.

• 4 cups beef broth – Forms the flavorful braising liquid.

• 1 cup red wine or grape juice – For richness (use juice for alcohol-free version).

• 2 sprigs thyme + 2 sprigs rosemary – Fresh herbs infuse aromatic depth.

• Salt and pepper – Always season generously before searing.

For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) – Creamy texture and buttery flavor.

• 4 cloves garlic – Boiled with potatoes for mellow sweetness.

• ½ cup milk + ¼ cup butter – Essential for silky consistency.

• Salt to taste – Brings everything together.

How to Make Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes

1. Sear the Ribs for Flavor

Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Pat short ribs dry and season generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a heavy Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear each rib on all sides until browned (3–4 minutes per side). This step locks in flavor and gives a beautiful crust.

2. Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until fragrant and golden. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes — this caramelization builds the base flavor of the sauce.

3. Deglaze and Braise

Pour in red wine (or grape juice) and beef broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Add thyme and rosemary sprigs. Return the seared ribs to the pot, ensuring they’re mostly submerged. Cover and transfer to the oven.
Braise for 2½ to 3 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

4. Prepare the Garlic Mashed Potatoes

While the ribs braise, boil potatoes and garlic cloves in salted water until soft (about 20–25 minutes). Drain and mash with milk, butter, and salt. For extra creaminess, use a ricer or electric mixer.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Remove short ribs from the pot and spoon the rich sauce over the top. Serve them over a generous portion of creamy garlic mash and garnish with fresh herbs

Pro Tips

🔹 How do I make short ribs tender without drying out?

Low and slow is the secret. The collagen in short ribs needs time to break down into gelatin. Keep the pot covered and ensure the liquid level stays halfway up the meat.

🔹 Can I make braised short ribs ahead of time?

Absolutely. Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes taste even better the next day. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop.

🔹 What can I use instead of red wine?

Use beef broth with 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar or grape juice for similar depth without alcohol.

🔹 Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! After searing, transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 8–9 hours or HIGH for 5–6 hours.

Best Ways to Serve

Serve this comforting dish with:

• Roasted green beans or glazed carrots

• A crisp green salad with balsamic dressing

• Crusty bread for soaking up the sauce

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~640 kcal

• Protein: 36g

• Carbohydrates: 28g

• Fat: 42g

• Sodium: 720mg

• Fiber: 3g

Storage & Leftovers

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the oven at 325°F until heated through.

Variations

• Slow Cooker Version: Same ingredients, 8–9 hours on LOW.

• Instant Pot Version: Pressure cook on HIGH for 45 minutes, natural release.

• No Wine Option: Replace wine with extra beef broth and 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce.

• Garlic Parmesan Mash: Stir in grated Parmesan for extra richness.

• Herb Upgrade: Add bay leaves and sage for aromatic depth.

FAQs

Can I use boneless short ribs?

Yes, but bone-in ribs add flavor and moisture to the braise.

How do I thicken the braising sauce?

Simmer the liquid uncovered for 10–15 minutes or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry.

What potatoes work best for garlic mash?

Yukon Gold gives the creamiest texture, while Russets make it lighter and fluffier.

Conclusion

If you’re searching for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and elegance, Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes is your answer. Every bite of rich, melt-in-your-mouth beef paired with smooth, buttery garlic potatoes is pure indulgence. Perfect for family dinners, celebrations, or romantic evenings — this recipe turns an ordinary night into something truly special.

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