Looking for a comforting, show-stopping meal that’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weekend dinner? Braised short ribs with garlic mash is the answer! This dish is a true classic, and for good reason. It’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, guaranteed to impress anyone you serve it to.
This recipe transforms humble short ribs into something extraordinary. The slow braising process makes the meat melt-in-your-mouth tender, while the garlic mash adds a creamy, comforting counterpoint. Let’s get cooking!

WHY YOU’LL LOVE the Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash
Why this recipe is a winner:
This Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash recipe is a culinary hug in a bowl. It’s the perfect blend of tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs and creamy, flavorful garlic mashed potatoes. The recipe is surprisingly simple, making it ideal for both seasoned cooks and those new to the kitchen. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends. Plus, the leftovers taste even better!
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash

Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward a delicious meal! This recipe uses a combination of fresh produce, savory herbs, and high-quality short ribs to create a truly unforgettable dish. Don’t be intimidated by the list; most of these items you probably already have in your pantry or fridge. Let’s get started!
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Ingredients:
This recipe calls for bone-in beef short ribs, which provide the best flavor and texture. You’ll also need aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery to build a flavorful base for braising. Red wine adds depth, while beef broth keeps the ribs moist and tender. Fresh herbs like thyme and bay leaves infuse the dish with wonderful aromas. For the garlic mash, you’ll need Yukon Gold potatoes, garlic, butter, milk, and a touch of salt and pepper to season.
- 4-6 bone-in beef short ribs (about 2 pounds total)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dry red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- For the Garlic Mash:
- 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 4-6 cloves garlic, peeled
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk, warmed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How to Make Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash
This recipe might seem like a labor of love, but the hands-on time is minimal, and the results are well worth it. The slow braising process does most of the work, allowing you to relax and enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen. Here’s how to bring this classic dish to life, step by step.
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Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs
Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs in batches, browning on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the short ribs and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Don’t rush this step – it builds the flavor foundation!
Step 3: Deglaze and Braise
Pour in the red wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the beef broth, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Return the short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. Bring to a simmer.
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Step 4: Braise in the Oven
Cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C). Braise for 3-4 hours, or until the short ribs are fork-tender. The meat should be easily pulling away from the bone. While the ribs braise, prepare the garlic mash.
Step 5: Make the Garlic Mash
While the short ribs are braising, prepare the garlic mash. Boil the potatoes and garlic in salted water until tender. Drain, then mash with butter and warmed milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Serve the short ribs over the garlic mash.
Recommended Tools & Equipment for Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash
Having the right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen. For this recipe, you’ll need a few essential items to ensure a smooth cooking process and delicious results. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create this amazing meal:
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- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with a lid: Essential for braising the short ribs. Make sure it’s oven-safe!
- Tongs: For easily searing and turning the short ribs.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board: For chopping vegetables.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Potato masher or ricer: For the smoothest, creamiest garlic mash.
- Mixing bowls: For preparing the garlic mash.
PRO TIPS for Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash
Tips for success:
For extra flavor, sear the short ribs in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot. Don’t be afraid to let the vegetables caramelize a bit before adding the wine. For a richer sauce, you can strain the braising liquid after cooking and reduce it on the stovetop. And finally, don’t skip the resting time – it allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
Variations & Serving Ideas
While this recipe is perfect as is, feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking! You can easily adapt this dish to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
- Add vegetables: Include other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips in the braising liquid for added flavor and texture.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a touch of heat.
- Herb it up: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to change the flavor profile.
- Serve with different sides: Instead of garlic mash, try creamy polenta, mashed sweet potatoes, or roasted vegetables. A simple green salad is also a great accompaniment.
- Garnish: Garnish the finished dish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers of this dish are a true gift! Properly stored, the flavors only deepen overnight. Here’s how to make the most of your delicious braised short ribs and garlic mash:
Store the short ribs and garlic mash separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat the short ribs gently in a saucepan or in the oven at a low temperature until heated through. Reheat the garlic mash in the microwave, stirring occasionally, or in a saucepan with a splash of milk or butter to restore its creaminess. Enjoy!
Final Thoughts

Braised short ribs with garlic mash is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s about savoring the process, the aromas, and the joy of sharing a delicious, comforting dish with loved ones. I hope this recipe brings warmth and happiness to your table. So, gather your ingredients, put on some music, and enjoy the journey of creating this culinary masterpiece. Happy cooking!
FAQs About Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash
Question 1?
What if I don’t have a Dutch oven?
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Braised Short Ribs with Garlic Mash and cozy, comforting meal for you
- Total Time: 4 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
Tender, fall-off-the-bone braised short ribs served with creamy garlic mashed potatoes. A perfect comfort food dish for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 4–5 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 4 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bottle (750ml) dry red wine
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Garlic Mashed Potatoes:
- 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup butter
- 4–6 cloves garlic, roasted or minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Short Ribs: Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C). Season short ribs generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot over medium-high heat. Sear short ribs in batches until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove short ribs and set aside.
- Add onions, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in red wine and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Cook for 5 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Add beef broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper. Return short ribs to the pot, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot and transfer to the preheated oven. Braise for 3-3.5 hours, or until the short ribs are fork-tender.
- Prepare the Garlic Mashed Potatoes: While the short ribs are braising, cook potatoes in a large pot of salted boiling water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain potatoes.
- In the same pot, add milk and butter. Heat until butter is melted. Add roasted or minced garlic.
- Mash potatoes until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- To Serve: Remove short ribs from the braising liquid. Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the braising liquid. Serve short ribs over garlic mashed potatoes. Spoon braising liquid over the short ribs.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in short ribs.
- If you don’t have a Dutch oven, you can sear the short ribs in a large skillet and then transfer everything to a roasting pan.
- You can prepare the short ribs a day ahead. Let them cool, then refrigerate. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the oven.
- Roasting the garlic before adding it to the mashed potatoes adds a deeper, sweeter flavor.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 750
- Fat: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 45g







