Beef Short Ribs with Onion Gravy and Mashed Potatoes
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Introduction
Beef Short Ribs with Onion Gravy and Mashed Potatoes is the definition of comforting, hearty, and soul-satisfying food. With fall-off-the-bone tender meat, rich caramelized onion gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into an indulgent, slow-cooked masterpiece. Whether for Sunday supper or a special family gathering, it’s a classic worth savoring.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Short ribs have roots in various global cuisines—found in everything from Korean galbi to French braised dishes. In American and European comfort food traditions, braised short ribs with gravy often symbolize rustic, slow-cooked hospitality. Served with mashed potatoes, this version draws heavily from Southern and Midwestern influences, where rich, meaty gravies and buttery mashed potatoes are staples at communal tables and holiday feasts.
Ingredients Quantity
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp paprika (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter (for gravy finish)
For Mashed Potatoes:
- 2½ lbs russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk or heavy cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- Splash of red wine in the gravy for deeper flavor
- Fresh rosemary or bay leaf during braising
- Cream cheese or roasted garlic in mashed potatoes for richness
- Mushrooms sautéed with onions
- Chopped parsley or chives for garnish
Tips for Success
- Brown the ribs well on all sides to develop deep flavor.
- Use low and slow cooking (oven or slow cooker) for fall-apart tenderness.
- Caramelize the onions before adding broth—they bring sweetness and complexity.
- Use a Dutch oven or deep braising dish for even heat.
- Let the meat rest before serving to absorb juices.
- Whip mashed potatoes just before serving for creamy texture.
Instructions
- Season and Sear the Ribs:
Pat short ribs dry and season with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear ribs in batches until browned on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. - Cook Onions and Garlic:
In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring frequently until softened and golden. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. - Make the Gravy Base:
Sprinkle flour over the onions and stir until combined. Slowly pour in beef broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Stir in Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and paprika (if using). - Braise the Ribs:
Return the ribs to the pot, nestling them into the onion gravy. Cover with lid and bake in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for 2½ to 3 hours, until the ribs are fork-tender. - Make the Mashed Potatoes:
While ribs cook, boil potatoes in salted water until tender (15–20 minutes). Drain and mash with butter, milk or cream, and salt and pepper to taste. Set aside. - Finish the Gravy:
Remove ribs from the oven. Stir in butter to enrich the gravy. Adjust seasoning if needed. - Serve:
Spoon mashed potatoes onto plates, top with short ribs, and ladle over the rich onion gravy. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Description
This dish is pure comfort on a plate: succulent beef short ribs braised in a silky onion-laced gravy served over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. The meat is ultra-tender, the gravy deeply savory with sweet undertones from caramelized onions, and the mashed potatoes buttery smooth. It’s a homestyle dinner that feels like a warm hug.
Nutritional Information
(Approx. per serving, 6 servings total)
- Calories: 740
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 48g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Values vary based on beef cut, fat content, and potato preparation.
Conclusion and Recommendation
Beef Short Ribs with Onion Gravy and Mashed Potatoes is an unforgettable dish that never fails to impress. Ideal for Sunday dinners, holidays, or special occasions, it’s rich, rewarding, and incredibly satisfying. Serve with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To lighten the dish, trim excess fat from the short ribs, use low-sodium broth, and opt for Greek yogurt or low-fat milk in the mashed potatoes. Add extra veggies to the pot or swap some potatoes for mashed cauliflower. Most importantly, enjoy every bite mindfully—this dish is all about slow, flavorful indulgence that nourishes both body and soul.
Would you like a variation of this recipe for a slow cooker or instant pot version next?