Short Rib Ravioli: A Rich and Decadent Italian Delight

Introduction to Short Rib Ravioli

Short Rib Ravioli is a culinary masterpiece that blends the rustic charm of homemade pasta with the tender, melt-in-your-mouth luxury of slow-braised short ribs. This Italian-inspired dish is perfect for romantic dinners, special occasions, or when you want to recreate a restaurant-quality experience at home.

The true magic of Short Rib Ravioli comes from its layers of flavor. Braised beef short ribs, cooked low and slow with garlic and aromatics, create a savory and buttery filling. Combined with creamy ricotta, parmesan, and earthy mushrooms, the filling is wrapped in delicate, handmade pasta dough. Finished with a simple sauce, like brown butter or creamy mushroom reduction, this dish becomes a decadent delight.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or new to pasta-making, this guide will take you step by step to create the perfect Short Rib Ravioli. Prepare to impress your guests and family with a dish that is truly a labor of love.

What Is Short Rib Ravioli?

Understanding This Italian Ravioli Recipe

Short Rib Ravioli is a luxurious variation of the classic Italian ravioli. Traditionally, ravioli features simple fillings like cheese, spinach, or meats, but slow-cooked short ribs elevate the dish to a gourmet level.

Why Short Rib Ravioli Is Special

This dish stands out for its rich textures and bold flavors:

Braised Beef Short Ribs: Slow cooking transforms short ribs into tender, flavorful meat that melts in your mouth.
Fresh Pasta Dough: Delicate yet sturdy, homemade pasta perfectly balances the hearty short rib filling.
The Luxurious Filling: A blend of shredded short ribs, ricotta cheese, parmesan, and sautéed mushrooms creates an indulgent, creamy interior.

A Perfect Meal for Every Occasion

The versatility of Short Rib Ravioli makes it perfect for any setting:

Special Events: Impress your guests at holidays, dinner parties, or romantic date nights.
Everyday Comfort Food: While it takes time, the effort is well worth it for a memorable family meal.

Key Ingredients for Short Rib Ravioli Recipe

Short Rib Ravioli Filling

To achieve the perfect Short Rib Ravioli, focus on high-quality ingredients:

Beef Short Ribs: Use bone-in or boneless beef short ribs for their tender texture and rich flavor. If unavailable, boneless beef chuck roast works well as a substitute.
Beef Broth: Provides moisture and infuses the filling with savory, umami-rich flavor.
Unsweetened Pomegranate Juice: A non-alcoholic option that adds subtle sweetness and depth. Alternatively, mix beef broth with balsamic vinegar for a tangy balance.
Garlic and Onions: These aromatics form a fragrant base for the braised beef.
Tomato Paste: A touch of acidity balances the richness of the meat.
Butter: Adds creaminess and rounds out the luxurious texture of the filling.

Homemade Ravioli Dough

Flour: Caputo 00 flour creates silky, smooth pasta, but all-purpose flour works well too.
Eggs: Fresh eggs provide structure and a vibrant golden hue to the dough.
Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the pasta.
Water: Adjust the consistency of the dough to ensure it’s soft, elastic, and easy to work with.

Toppings and Sauces for Short Rib Ravioli

Sautéed Mushrooms: Cook mushrooms in butter until golden to add an earthy, savory note.
Brown Butter Sauce: A simple yet elegant sauce that complements the ravioli’s rich filling with its nutty flavor.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds a salty, savory finish.
Fresh Herbs: Garnish with chopped parsley or basil to brighten the dish with a pop of color and flavor.

Step-by-Step Short Rib Ravioli Recipe

1. Braise the Beef Short Ribs

Sear the Ribs: Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear on all sides until browned.
Braise the Meat: Add garlic, onions, beef broth, and unsweetened pomegranate juice (or balsamic broth mix). Stir in tomato paste and fresh thyme. Cover and braise in the oven at 325°F for 3-4 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
Shred the Beef: Remove bones and shred the meat. Reduce the remaining liquid into a thick sauce for added flavor.

2. Prepare the Mushrooms

Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced mushrooms, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Sauté until mushrooms are golden and tender. Set half aside for serving later.

3. Make the Short Rib Ravioli Filling

In a food processor, combine the shredded short rib meat, ricotta, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, and half the mushrooms.
Pulse until smooth but still slightly textured. Add a bit of the short rib sauce for extra moisture.

4. Craft the Ravioli Dough

Mix flour, eggs, salt, and water in a bowl. Knead until smooth, then wrap the dough in plastic and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Roll the dough into thin sheets using a pasta machine or rolling pin.

5. Assemble the Ravioli

Place scoops of filling onto a sheet of dough, spaced evenly. Cover with another sheet and press to seal. Use a pasta cutter or knife to create individual ravioli.

6. Cook the Ravioli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Gently drop the ravioli in and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until they float to the top.

7. Serve with Sauce and Toppings

Heat the reserved mushrooms in butter. Plate the ravioli and top with mushrooms, brown butter sauce, parmesan cheese, and fresh herbs. Serve immediately for the best flavor.

Best Sauce Pairings and Side Dishes

Sauces to Enhance Short Rib Ravioli

Brown Butter Sauce: Nutty, simple, and luxurious.
Creamy Mushroom Sauce: A decadent option made with mushrooms, butter, and cream.

Ideal Side Dishes

Fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette for a bright, refreshing contrast.
Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts to add texture and balance.

Wine Pairings

Red Wine: Bold wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Chianti enhance the deep flavors of the short rib filling.
White Wine: A buttery Chardonnay complements creamy sauces beautifully.

FAQs About Short Rib Ravioli

1. What pairs well with Short Rib Ravioli?
Pair it with brown butter sauce, creamy mushroom sauce, or a light olive oil drizzle. Serve alongside fresh greens, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread.

2. Do you cook meat before filling ravioli?
Yes, you must fully cook the meat. Braise the short ribs until tender, shred them, and mix with ricotta and parmesan for the filling.

3. What is the difference between ribs and short ribs?
Ribs are longer with less meat, while short ribs come from the lower ribcage and have more connective tissue, making them ideal for slow-cooking.

4. What are Mexican short ribs called?
Mexican short ribs are known as Costillas de Res. These are often marinated with spices and slow-cooked or grilled for bold, rich flavors.

Conclusion: A True Gourmet Delight

Short Rib Ravioli is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of flavor, texture, and the art of homemade cooking. The tender short rib filling wrapped in delicate pasta sheets, paired with a rich sauce, creates an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or treating your family to something extraordinary, this dish is worth every moment of effort.

Embrace the process, gather your ingredients, and bring the magic of Short Rib Ravioli to life in your own kitchen.

Short Rib Ravioli Recipe: Rich, Tender, and Irresistibly Delicious