Short ribs in tomato sauce is a rich pasta dish made by slowly cooking beef short ribs in a savory tomato and wine sauce until the meat becomes tender and full of flavor.
My cooking addiction always leads me back to recipes like this because the taste is deeply comforting and memorable.
I made this short ribs in tomato sauce to create a hearty family meal that everyone enjoys. Over the years, I have prepared it many times and learned small tricks that improve the final result.
Instead of following a restaurant style version exactly, I added my own touches. I will now show the short ribs in tomato sauce complete step by step method.
About This Short Ribs In Tomato Sauce
These short ribs in tomato sauce delivers deep, rich flavor from slowly cooked beef and tomatoes blended into a hearty sauce. The meat becomes incredibly tender and absorbs the savory taste of garlic, onions, herbs, and wine.
The tomato base adds a gentle sweetness balanced by the natural richness of the beef. Served over fettuccine, the sauce coats every strand of pasta beautifully.
This short ribs in tomato sauce feels warm, comforting, and filling from the first forkful to the last. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs on top makes the meal even more delicious and enjoyable for family dinners.
How To Prepare Short Ribs In Tomato Sauce?
To help you make this short ribs in tomato sauce successfully, I have broken the recipe into easy-to-follow steps. Detailed instructions guide you from browning the beef to creating a rich, slow-cooked sauce.
I’ve also included helpful kitchen tools that can simplify preparation. Use the equipment you have available, and enjoy creating a flavorful homemade meal.
Recipe Overview
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Cooking Style: Braising
Dish Type: Pasta Dinner
Season: Fall, Winter, Spring, All-Year Comfort Food
Yield: 6 servings
Serving Size: 1 generous plate
Kitchen Utensils
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring scale
- Large pasta pot
- Colander
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1.8 kg beef short ribs
- 400 g tomato sauce
- 800 g whole canned tomatoes, crushed
- 15 g olive oil
- 200 g onion, diced
- 12 g garlic, crushed
- 240 g red or white wine
- 12 g sugar
- 1 g red pepper flakes
- 1 g ground thyme
- 8 g salt, or to taste
- 3 g black pepper, or to taste
- 450 g fettuccine pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, minced
Instructions
Step 1:
Pat the beef short ribs dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides until deeply golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 2:
In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in crushed garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3:
Pour in the wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Add tomato sauce, crushed canned tomatoes, sugar, red pepper flakes, thyme, remaining salt, and black pepper.
Step 4:
Return the short ribs to the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 2½ to 3 hours, or until the meat becomes fork-tender and easily separates from the bone.
Step 5:
Remove the ribs from the sauce. Discard the bones and shred the meat. Return the shredded beef to the tomato sauce and stir well.
Step 6:
Cook the fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and serve topped with the short rib tomato sauce. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
Nutrition Facts Of Short Ribs In Tomato Sauce
| Nutrition | Amounts |
|---|---|
| Calories | 690 calories |
| Protein | 42 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 42 grams |
| Fat | 34 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 13 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Sugar | 8 grams |
| Sodium | 0.78 grams |
How It Works
This short ribs in tomato sauce works by slowly cooking beef short ribs in a rich tomato sauce until the meat becomes tender and flavorful.
First, the ribs are browned to develop a deeper taste and color. Onion and garlic are cooked in the same pot to build a savory base.
Wine is added to enhance the flavor, followed by tomatoes, tomato sauce, herbs, and seasonings. As everything simmers together, the beef releases its natural juices into the sauce.
Over several hours, the meat softens and absorbs the tomato flavors, creating a hearty dish that pairs wonderfully with cooked fettuccine.
Why It’s Popular
Short ribs in tomato sauce are popular because it delivers rich flavor, tender meat, and a comforting homemade feel. Slow cooking transforms the beef into a soft, juicy texture that many people enjoy.
The tomato sauce becomes deeply flavored as it cooks alongside the ribs, creating a hearty meal that feels special without requiring complicated ingredients.
It is often served for family dinners, celebrations, and weekend gatherings. Many home cooks love this recipe because it can be prepared ahead of time, and the flavor becomes even better after resting, making leftovers just as enjoyable.
Tips For Best Results
1. Pat the short ribs dry before browning to help develop a rich, deep color on the surface.
2. Brown the meat thoroughly on all sides and avoid overcrowding the pot during this step.
3. Use a heavy Dutch oven or thick-bottomed pot to maintain steady heat throughout cooking.
4. Simmer gently on low heat rather than boiling, which helps keep the beef tender and juicy.
5. Stir the sauce occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
6. Taste the sauce near the end of cooking and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.
7. Let the cooked short ribs rest in the sauce for 15 to 20 minutes before serving so the flavors can settle and deepen.
Serving Ideas
Serve short ribs in tomato sauce over a generous portion of hot fettuccine for a hearty and comforting meal. Top each serving with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for added flavor.
Pair it with warm garlic bread to soak up the rich tomato sauce. A simple green salad with a light dressing provides a fresh contrast to the savory beef.
Roasted vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or broccoli also complement the dish beautifully. For special dinners, serve alongside creamy polenta or mashed potatoes instead of pasta for a delicious change of pace.
Nutrition Benefits
Short ribs in tomato sauce provide a good source of protein, which helps support muscle growth and repair. Beef short ribs also contain iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, nutrients that play important roles in energy production and overall wellness.
Tomatoes contribute vitamin C, potassium, and beneficial antioxidants, including lycopene. Garlic and onions add natural plant compounds that support a balanced diet.
When served with fettuccine, this dish supplies carbohydrates that help fuel daily activities. The slow-cooked ingredients create a hearty meal that delivers protein, essential minerals, and lasting fullness in every serving.
Best Variations
1. Classic Italian Style Short Ribs
Add fresh basil, oregano, and a little grated Parmesan cheese to the tomato sauce. The herbs create a richer flavor profile and give the dish a traditional Italian-inspired character. Serve over fettuccine or pappardelle for a hearty meal.
2. Rustic Vegetable Short Ribs
Mix carrots, celery, mushrooms, and bell peppers into the sauce during cooking. The vegetables become tender and absorb the beef juices, creating a thicker sauce and a more substantial dinner that can stand on its own.
3. Garlic Lover’s Short Ribs
Increase the garlic from 4 cloves to 8 cloves for a deeper savory taste. The slow cooking process softens the garlic and blends it into the tomato sauce, adding remarkable depth without becoming too strong.
4. Rich Red Wine Short Ribs
Use a generous amount of dry red wine and allow it to reduce before adding the tomatoes. This method creates a darker, fuller sauce that complements the beef beautifully and brings restaurant-quality flavor to the dish.
5. Spicy Country Style Short Ribs
Add extra red pepper flakes, diced hot peppers, and a pinch of smoked paprika. The result is a bold and warming sauce that pairs wonderfully with pasta, polenta, or crusty bread for a memorable family dinner.
Storage Instructions
Short ribs in tomato sauce stores very well, making it a great make-ahead meal. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, keeping the pasta separate if possible to maintain the best texture. For longer storage, freeze the beef and sauce for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. A small splash of water or broth can help restore the sauce to its original consistency.
FAQs About Short Ribs in Tomato Sauce
Can I use boneless short ribs instead of bone-in?
Yes, you can use boneless short ribs, but bone-in ribs tend to have more flavor. If using boneless, the cooking time may be slightly shorter, so monitor the meat closely.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. You can make it a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat gently before serving.
Can I substitute the red wine?
Yes, you can substitute red wine with beef broth or chicken broth if you prefer to avoid alcohol. The wine adds depth to the sauce, but the broth will still create a flavorful base.
What’s the best way to serve this dish?
This recipe is delicious served over pasta, such as fettuccine, but it also pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
How do I know when the short ribs are done?
The short ribs are done when the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls away from the bone. This typically takes around 2 hours of simmering, but check for tenderness before serving.
Conclusion
These short ribs in tomato sauce recipe are perfect for anyone looking for a rich, comforting meal that’s as impressive as it is satisfying.
The slow cooking ensures the short ribs are meltingly tender, while the tomato sauce is bursting with flavor from the wine, herbs, and spices.
I love making this short ribs in tomato sauce on weekends when I have a bit more time to enjoy the cooking process, and it’s always a hit at the dinner table.
Give short ribs in tomato sauce a try and let me know how it turns out there’s nothing like the joy of sharing a delicious homemade meal with the people you love!
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Short Ribs In Tomato Sauce
Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring scale
- Large pasta pot
- Colander
- Tongs
Ingredients
- 1.8 kg beef short ribs
- 400 g tomato sauce
- 800 g whole canned tomatoes crushed
- 15 g olive oil
- 200 g onion diced
- 12 g garlic crushed
- 240 g red or white wine
- 12 g sugar
- 1 g red pepper flakes
- 1 g ground thyme
- 8 g salt or to taste
- 3 g black pepper or to taste
- 450 g fettuccine pasta
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley minced
Instructions
Step 1:
- Pat the beef short ribs dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides until deeply golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 2:
- In the same pot, add diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in crushed garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3:
- Pour in the wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release browned bits. Add tomato sauce, crushed canned tomatoes, sugar, red pepper flakes, thyme, remaining salt, and black pepper.
Step 4:
- Return the short ribs to the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 2½ to 3 hours, or until the meat becomes fork-tender and easily separates from the bone.
Step 5:
- Remove the ribs from the sauce. Discard the bones and shred the meat. Return the shredded beef to the tomato sauce and stir well.
Step 6:
- Cook the fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and serve topped with the short rib tomato sauce. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Short Ribs In Tomato Sauce
Calories: 690 calories | Protein: 42 grams | Carbohydrates: 42 grams | Fat: 34 grams | Saturated Fat: 13 grams | Fiber: 4 grams | Sugar: 8 grams | Sodium: 0.78 gramsHello and welcome to All Recipe Make! I’m Julia, the creator behind this food and lifestyle blog, and I’m so glad you’re here. With four years of experience developing recipes, I love crafting dishes that are delicious, fun, and nourishing. Here, you’ll discover a wide range of recipes from vegan and gluten-free options to simple, budget-friendly meals. My aim is to help you bring something special to your table without spending a fortune. Thanks for stopping by I hope you enjoy exploring these recipes as much as I enjoy creating and sharing them!