The aroma wafting through the kitchen as the short ribs simmer brings me back to family gatherings, where comfort food was the star of the show. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes—a dish that transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious feast. Slow-cooked to tender perfection in a rich red wine broth, the short ribs are melt-in-your-mouth delicious, lending themselves beautifully to cozy winter evenings. Paired with creamy garlic mashed potatoes that are as comforting as a warm hug, this gluten-free masterpiece is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead option that tastes even better the next day! Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into this heartwarming culinary adventure together! Why Make Braised Short Ribs Tonight? Unforgettable Flavor: The robust red wine broth infuses the short ribs with a depth that’s simply irresistible. Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, you don’t need to be a pro to achieve this gourmet dish. Comfort Food Heaven: Creamy garlic mashed potatoes perfectly complement the tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs, making every bite a warm hug. Impressive for Guests: Serve this to friends or family, and you’ll be the star of the evening. It’s sure to impress! Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance—the flavors only get better, perfect for busy weeknights. After enjoying this dish, don’t forget to explore delicious variations, like Cheesy Garlic Chicken or Garlic Shrimp Mashed for more cozy meal ideas! Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes For the Short Ribs • Short Ribs – Choose well-marbled cuts like chuck or plate for maximum tenderness. • Red Wine – A robust Cabernet Sauvignon adds depth and notes of complexity to your braise. • Garlic – Fresh garlic is a must; roasting it takes the flavor to another level! • Onions – Sweet onions enhance the sauce’s richness; don’t skip this step. For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes • Potatoes – Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes lend a smooth, creamy texture to the mash. • Milk – Use whole milk for the ultimate creaminess and irresistible finish. • Butter – Adds richness to your garlic mash; olive oil is a lighter substitute if desired. • Garlic (for mash) – Blend roasted garlic in for exquisite flavor that pairs brilliantly with the short ribs. For Garnishing • Fresh Herbs (Thyme, Rosemary) – These aromatic herbs elevate the dish, adding a touch of freshness and fragrance. This Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes dish is perfect for creating that cozy atmosphere we all love! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Step 1: Prep the Ribs Start by patting the short ribs dry and seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, sear the short ribs for about 4–5 minutes on each side until they’re deeply browned. This step will lock in flavor, creating a delicious crust. Once browned, transfer the ribs to a plate. Step 2: Create the Braising Liquid In the same Dutch oven, reduce the heat to medium and add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3–4 minutes until fragrant and golden. Deglaze the pot with a cup of robust red wine, scraping up the flavorful browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld. Step 3: Braise the Ribs Return the seared ribs to the pot, nestling them in the aromatic mixture. Add fresh thyme and rosemary, and then pour in enough beef broth to just cover the ribs. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low. Allow the short ribs to braise for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. Check occasionally to ensure they remain submerged. Step 4: Prepare Garlic Mashed Potatoes While the ribs are braising, peel and chop your potatoes into even chunks, then add them along with a few cloves of garlic (unpeeled) to a pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 15–20 minutes until both are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes, allowing steam to escape and keeping them dry for a perfect mash. Step 5: Mash the Potatoes In a mixing bowl, combine the drained potatoes and garlic with warm milk and butter. Use a potato masher or ricer to blend everything together until smooth and creamy. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring the garlic sets the tone for a comforting side dish. Set the garlic mashed potatoes aside to keep warm. Step 6: Serve On a large platter, spoon the creamy garlic mashed potatoes and atop them generously lay the braised short ribs. Drizzle with the rich braising sauce from the pot and garnish with freshly chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic finish. This beautiful presentation will showcase your Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes, making it irresistibly inviting for all! Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Variations Embrace your kitchen creativity by customizing this delightful recipe to suit your tastes! Caramelized Onions: Stir some sweet, caramelized onions into your garlic mash for an extra depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness. It’s a wonderful way to elevate the dish and surprise your guests! Dairy-Free: Swap the milk and butter in the mashed potatoes with almond milk and olive oil for a rich and creamy vegan version that everyone can enjoy. You’ll still achieve that comforting texture! Herb-Infused Mashed Potatoes: Toss in fresh chives or parsley for an herby twist in your garlic mash. The vibrant color and fresh taste will brighten the dish and make it even more appealing! Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the braising liquid for a warm, spicy kick. This variation enhances the dish’s appeal to heat lovers without overpowering the flavors. Red Wine Alternatives: Swap Cabernet Sauvignon for Merlot or Shiraz to explore different flavor notes in your short ribs. Each wine brings its own character, making each meal an exciting new experience! Garlic & Herb Butter: For an indulgent finish, mix a compound butter of roasted garlic and fresh herbs to smear over the ribs just before serving. The richness this brings is simply heavenly! Mushroom Medley: Toss in sautéed mushrooms to the braising liquid for a delightful umami punch that complements the short ribs. This savory addition also brings a lovely texture contrast! Zesty Twist: Incorporate a squeeze of fresh lemon juice into your garlic mashed potatoes for a bright and zesty flavor that balances the richness of the meal. It’s a refreshing touch to round out the dish! After enjoying these variations, don’t forget to explore other comforting dishes like Spicy Chili Garlic and Sweet Spicy Garlic for more cozy meal ideas! What to Serve with Tender Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Elevate your home-cooked experience by complementing tender short ribs with delicious side dishes that round out your meal perfectly. Roasted Root Vegetables: A medley of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes adds a sweet and caramelized flavor, balancing the richness of the ribs. Fresh Mixed Salad: Dive into a crisp garden salad with a zesty vinaigrette. Its freshness contrasts beautifully with the comforting, hearty dish. Crusty Bread: Serve warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious braising sauce—perfect for those who love a comforting, carb-filled treat. Steamed Green Beans: Tender-crisp green beans add a burst of color and freshness to the dish, enhancing the overall presentation. Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a delightful pop of flavor and a nostalgic feel, making it a crowd-pleaser. Rich Red Wine: Pair your meal with a glass of bold red wine, like the Cabernet used in the braise, to enhance the flavors and elevate your dining experience. Chocolate Lava Cake: Cap off this indulgent meal with a warm and gooey dessert—a decadent chocolate lava cake that feels like a hug for your taste buds. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce provides a cold contrast to the warm, comforting main dish. Make Ahead Options These Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can fully prepare the braised short ribs up to 3 days in advance—just let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container in the refrigerator. The garlic mashed potatoes can be made up to 24 hours ahead as well; simply prepare them and store in a covered dish. To maintain their creamy texture, add a splash of warm milk before re-mashing or reheating. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the ribs and mashed potatoes in the oven or on the stovetop until warmed through, and enjoy a comforting, delicious meal with minimal effort! How to Store and Freeze Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Fridge: Store the leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld, making the dish even more delicious! Freezer: If you want to keep Braised Short Ribs for a longer period, freeze them in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the ribs in a covered pan on low heat, or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Pair with freshly made garlic mashed potatoes for the best experience. Sauce Storage: Don’t forget to save the braising sauce; it revitalizes the dish when reheated and can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. Expert Tips for Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Searing Success: Make sure the short ribs are dry before seasoning and searing; this helps achieve a beautiful, caramelized crust that locks in flavor. Wine Choices: Always use a wine you enjoy drinking; a robust Cabernet Sauvignon not only enhances the flavor but also offers a delightful pairing for the meal. No Overcrowding: When searing the short ribs, do not overcrowd the pot. Working in batches ensures that they brown properly, giving you the best flavor. Potato Perfection: Avoid over-mashing the potatoes to prevent a gluey texture. Gentle folding achieves a fluffy garlic mash that pairs beautifully with the tender ribs. Braising Time: Be patient! Allowing the ribs to braise slowly for the full 2.5 to 3 hours will yield tender, fall-off-the-bone results that are truly indulgent. Flavor Enhancements: For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the braising liquid for depth, or use caramelized onions in the garlic mash for an added layer of flavor. Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best short ribs? Absolutely! Look for well-marbled beef short ribs, like chuck or plate cuts, which provide rich flavor and tenderness. The marbling should be evident; it indicates a good amount of fat that enhances the dish’s richness during the braising process. What’s the best way to store leftover braised short ribs? For the best results, store leftover braised short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This period allows the flavors to meld even further, making them even tastier when you revisit them! Can I freeze the braised short ribs? Yes! To freeze, place the cooled short ribs in a well-sealed container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on low heat until warm, making sure to serve with fresh garlic mashed potatoes for the complete experience. What should I do if my mashed potatoes are gluey? Very! If your mashed potatoes turn out gluey, it’s usually due to overworking them. To rescue them, you can fold in a little extra warm milk or cream to loosen the texture. For a more effective solution, try mashing the potatoes gently with a fork or a ricer instead of a mixer. Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe? Definitely! This dish is gluten-free as it primarily uses beef broth and red wine without additives. However, if you’re cooking for guests with allergies, be sure to verify that the broth and wine brands are gluten-free. Additionally, for a dairy-free alternative, you can use olive oil instead of butter and a non-dairy milk for the mashed potatoes. How do I know when the short ribs are done braising? To check for doneness, you’re looking for that melt-in-your-mouth texture. After 2.5 to 3 hours of braising, gently poke the ribs with a fork; they should feel tender and fall apart easily. If they resist, give them a bit more time on low heat! Braided Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes for Cozy Nights Enjoy this Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mashed Potatoes recipe, a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 2 hours hrs 30 minutes minsTotal Time 3 hours hrs Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 720 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Short Ribs3 pounds beef short ribs Choose well-marbled cuts like chuck or plate for maximum tenderness.1 cup red wine A robust Cabernet Sauvignon adds depth and complexity.4 cloves garlic Fresh garlic is a must; roasting it enhances the flavor.2 medium onions Sweet onions enhance the sauce's richness.For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes2 pounds Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes Lend a smooth, creamy texture.1 cup whole milk Use for ultimate creaminess.4 tablespoons butter Adds richness; olive oil is a lighter substitute if desired.4 cloves garlic Blend roasted garlic in for exquisite flavor.For Garnishing2 tablespoons fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary) Elevates the dish with freshness. Equipment Dutch oven Method Step‑by‑Step InstructionsStart by patting the short ribs dry and seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Heat a Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a splash of oil. Once hot, sear the short ribs for about 4–5 minutes on each side until they're deeply browned.In the same Dutch oven, reduce the heat to medium and add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing for about 3–4 minutes until fragrant and golden. Deglaze the pot with a cup of robust red wine.Return the seared ribs to the pot, nestling them in the aromatic mixture. Add fresh thyme and rosemary, then pour in enough beef broth to just cover the ribs. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low.While the ribs are braising, peel and chop your potatoes into even chunks, then add them along with a few cloves of garlic (unpeeled) to a pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil.In a mixing bowl, combine the drained potatoes and garlic with warm milk and butter. Use a potato masher or ricer to blend everything together until smooth and creamy.On a large platter, spoon the creamy garlic mashed potatoes and atop them generously lay the braised short ribs. Drizzle with the rich braising sauce from the pot and garnish with freshly chopped herbs. Nutrition Serving: 1plateCalories: 720kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 58gFat: 37gSaturated Fat: 17gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 175mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 1300mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg NotesThis dish is perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. Consider adding balsamic vinegar to the braising liquid for extra flavor. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
