Short Rib Mac and Cheese Recipe for Ultimate Comfort Meal

There’s something incredibly comforting about the classic mac and cheese, but when you add tender, savory short ribs into the mix, it turns into a decadent, crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for special dinners or indulgent weeknights.

This Short Rib Mac and Cheese recipe combines the rich, slow-cooked flavors of beef short ribs with creamy, cheesy pasta, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Whether you’re a fan of traditional Southern comfort food or just love experimenting with hearty, flavorful meals, this recipe brings a gourmet twist to a beloved favorite.

Slow-cooked short ribs add a melt-in-your-mouth element that pairs beautifully with a luscious cheese sauce made from sharp cheddar, Gruyere, and a touch of Parmesan. The recipe is straightforward, allowing you to focus on layering flavors and enjoying the cooking process.

Best of all, it’s versatile enough to serve at family dinners, potlucks, or even holiday gatherings. Ready to elevate your mac and cheese game?

Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Short Rib Mac and Cheese offers a perfect balance of creamy, cheesy richness and deeply savory, tender beef. Unlike traditional mac and cheese, the addition of slow-braised short ribs introduces a depth of flavor and texture that transforms the dish into something truly special.

This recipe is ideal for those who love hearty comfort food but want to impress guests or family with a gourmet twist. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, combining pasta, cheese, and meat into a satisfying baked casserole.

You’ll appreciate the melt-in-your-mouth ribs and the perfectly creamy cheese sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

It’s also highly adaptable! You can prepare the short ribs ahead of time or use leftover ribs, making it a fantastic way to repurpose delicious meat.

Whether you’re cooking for two or a crowd, this recipe scales beautifully.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef short ribs, bone-in or boneless
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup red wine (optional but recommended for richness)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 ½ cups Gruyere cheese, shredded
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 lb elbow macaroni or cavatappi pasta
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: ½ tsp cayenne pepper for a little heat

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Medium saucepan
• Baking dish (9×13 inch recommended)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater
• Colander
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board

Instructions

1. Season the short ribs: Generously season the short ribs with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides.
2. Sear the short ribs: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the short ribs and sear until browned on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the ribs and set aside.
3. Sauté the aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the pot: Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let it simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Braise the short ribs: Return the short ribs to the pot. Add the beef broth until the ribs are partially submerged. Cover with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let the ribs braise gently for 2 to 2 ½ hours, or until the meat is very tender and falling off the bone.
6. Prepare the pasta: About 20 minutes before the ribs are done, cook the elbow macaroni in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
7. Shred the short ribs: Remove the short ribs from the pot and let cool slightly. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding any bones and excess fat.
8. Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Slowly add the heavy cream, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the shredded cheddar, Gruyere, and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add smoked paprika and cayenne pepper (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Combine pasta, short ribs, and cheese sauce: In a large mixing bowl or directly in the baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, shredded short ribs, and cheese sauce. Mix thoroughly to ensure every piece of pasta is coated.
10. Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
11. Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the mac and cheese uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
12. Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“For even richer flavor, braise your short ribs a day ahead — the flavors deepen overnight!”

Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese sauce for a little kick.

Switch up the cheese: Try mixing in fontina or smoked gouda for a different flavor profile.

Use leftover short ribs: This recipe is perfect for using up leftover short ribs or other braised beef cuts, saving time without sacrificing flavor.

Crunchy topping: For added texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with melted butter on top before baking.

Make it vegetarian: Replace the short ribs with caramelized mushrooms or roasted butternut squash for a hearty vegetarian version.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Short Rib Mac and Cheese pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or asparagus also complement the dish well.

If you’re serving this for a special occasion, consider pairing it with a full-bodied red wine such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to enhance the deep flavors of the short ribs.

For a casual meal, serve alongside some crusty garlic bread or a side of pickled vegetables to add brightness and texture.

Conclusion

Short Rib Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food elevated with rich, tender meat and a creamy, cheesy sauce that will satisfy any craving. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the familiarity of classic mac and cheese and the luxurious indulgence of slow-braised beef.

It’s perfect for cozy nights at home, special family gatherings, or impressing guests with minimal effort.

With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant but feels like home. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a holiday feast, this recipe promises to deliver warmth, flavor, and plenty of smiles around the table.

Happy cooking!

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