Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)

These Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients) are a delightful dish that combines simplicity with rich flavors. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe guarantees tender meat enveloped in savory marinara sauce. With minimal ingredients and effortless preparation, you can enjoy a comforting meal that pairs wonderfully with pasta, mashed potatoes, or even as a filling for sandwiches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Preparation: With just three main ingredients, making this dish is a breeze.
• Rich Flavor: The slow-cooking process melds the flavors of marinara and beef broth for a deliciously satisfying result.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy these short ribs over pasta, on a bed of mashed potatoes, or in your favorite sandwich.
• Family-Friendly Meal: This dish appeals to both adults and kids, making it great for family dinners.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe fits right in.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process as smooth as possible, having the right tools is essential. These will help you achieve the best results while preparing your Easy Short Ribs in Marinara.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Dutch oven
• Measuring spoons
• Oven mitts
• Serving utensils

Why These Tools Matter

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking, it retains heat well and allows for even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accuracy in seasoning, enhancing flavor without guesswork.
• Oven mitts: Protects your hands from hot surfaces when handling the Dutch oven.

Ingredients

These Easy Short Ribs in Marinara are slow-cooked until fall-apart tender in a rich blend of marinara sauce and beef broth. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you get a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for pasta, mashed potatoes, or sandwiches.

Ingredients:
– 3 lbs boneless short ribs
– 24 oz marinara sauce (traditional, garlic, or grape juice-infused work great)
– 32 oz beef broth (or beef bone broth)
– 2 tsp kosher salt

How to Make Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 325°F to prepare for slow cooking.

Step 2: Assemble Ingredients

In your Dutch oven:
1. Add the boneless short ribs.
2. Pour in the marinara sauce.
3. Add the beef broth.
4. Sprinkle in the kosher salt.
5. Stir to combine all ingredients well.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and place it in the preheated oven.
– Cook for 4-5 hours or until the short ribs are fork-tender.

Step 4: Shred and Serve

Once cooked:
1. Remove from the oven carefully using oven mitts.
2. Shred the meat directly in the pot using two forks.
3. Mix it thoroughly with the sauce to combine flavors.
4. Serve hot over pasta or mashed potatoes, or use as a filling for sandwiches.

Enjoy your delicious creation!

How to Serve Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)

These Easy Short Ribs in Marinara are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delicious ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Over Pasta

• Serve the shredded short ribs over a bed of spaghetti or fettuccine for a hearty meal. The marinara sauce will cling beautifully to the pasta.

On Toasted Bread

• Create a delightful sandwich by placing the short ribs on toasted ciabatta or baguette slices. Add some fresh herbs for an extra touch.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Pair the short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting dish. The sauce makes a great gravy that complements the potatoes perfectly.

In Tacos

• For a fun twist, serve the meat in corn tortillas topped with diced onions and cilantro. A squeeze of lime adds brightness to this dish.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Accompany your short ribs with grilled seasonal vegetables. The smoky flavor will balance well with the rich sauce.

How to Perfect Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)

To ensure your Easy Short Ribs in Marinara turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose Quality Meat: Select well-marbled beef short ribs for more flavor and tenderness after cooking.
• Don’t Rush Cooking: Allow the ribs to cook low and slow for the best texture; this helps them become fork-tender.
• Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the kosher salt or add spices like pepper or garlic powder for personalized flavor.
• Mix Sauces: Experiment with different marinara sauces such as spicy or vegetable-infused versions to find your preferred taste.
• Rest Before Shredding: Let the meat rest for a few minutes after cooking before shredding; this helps retain moisture.
• Store Leftovers Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later use.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)

Complement your Easy Short Ribs in Marinara with these delightful side dishes. Each one adds its own flavor profile, enhancing your meal’s overall experience.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up extra sauce and adding a crunchy texture.
2. Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the short ribs.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The caramelized edges of roasted Brussels sprouts add depth and nuttiness to your plate.
4. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf serves as a fluffy base that absorbs all those delicious juices.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings freshness and crunch, balancing the richness of the meat dish.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is an easy-to-make side that pairs wonderfully with marinara flavors.
7. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds color and a healthy touch alongside your hearty meal.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: These provide sweetness and earthiness, making them a great complement to savory short ribs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Bold ingredient selection: Using low-quality marinara sauce can lead to a bland dish. Always choose a sauce with rich flavors.
• Bold cooking time: Cooking the short ribs for too little time will result in tough meat. Ensure you follow the recommended 4-5 hours for tenderness.
• Bold seasoning oversight: Skipping or underestimating salt can dull the flavors. Be sure to measure the kosher salt carefully for optimal taste.
• Bold inadequate mixing: Not properly combining ingredients before cooking can result in uneven flavor distribution. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
• Bold ignoring resting time: Failing to let the dish rest after cooking can affect texture and flavor absorption. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before serving.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Divide into portions for easier thawing and reheating later.
• Make sure to leave space at the top of the container as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)

• Bold Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Bold Microwave method: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Bold Stovetop method: Heat on low in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of short ribs should I use for Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients)?

You can use boneless short ribs or bone-in short ribs depending on your preference; both work well with this recipe.

Can I customize the marinara sauce?

Absolutely! You can add herbs like basil or oregano, or even mix in some crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

How do I know when my short ribs are done?

The short ribs are done when they become fork-tender and easily shred apart.

Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?

You could use low-sodium beef broth and opt for leaner cuts of beef if desired.

Can I serve Easy Short Ribs in Marinara (3 Ingredients) with something other than pasta?

Yes! These short ribs pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or even crusty bread.

Conclusion

These Easy Short Ribs in Marinara offer a deliciously comforting meal with minimal effort. Perfectly tender and packed with flavor, this dish is versatile enough to accompany various sides. Feel free to customize it further with your favorite herbs or spices!

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