What to Serve with Beef Short Ribs: The 15 Best Side Dishes

Beef short ribs are a delicious, hearty meal that deserves equally tasty side dishes to complement their rich, savory flavor With the right sides, you can create a well-rounded dining experience that delights the palate In this article, we’ll explore 15 of the best side dishes to serve with beef short ribs.

Creamy, Comforting Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic accompaniment to beef dishes. When making mashed potatoes to serve with short ribs consider using red potatoes or Yukon Golds which have a velvety texture when mashed. Infuse the potatoes with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary or chives to add aromatic depth. A touch of garlic or cheese elevates the flavor even further. For ultimate decadence, pipe the mashed potatoes into cakes and brown the exterior for a crispy crust.

Sour cream or cream cheese mashed potatoes are tangy alternatives, countering the richness of the short ribs beautifully. For something warm and comforting, baked potatoes loaded with butter, sour cream, cheese and bacon are bound to satisfy.

Savory Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables like potatoes, carrots, parsnips and Brussels sprouts caramelize beautifully in the oven, developing a sweet, earthy depth that pairs impeccably with short ribs. Toss the veggies with olive oil, salt, pepper and fresh herbs before roasting. For Brussels sprouts, add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor. The interplay of textures from the tender beef and crisp roasted veggies makes for a stellar meal.

Velvety Creamed Spinach

Few side dishes reach the same level of decadence as creamed spinach. Blending spinach with creamy béchamel and nutmeg enhances its natural sweetness Top with crunchy panko breadcrumbs or Parmesan cheese for an irresistible pairing with beef short ribs The spinach cuts through the meat’s richness while matching its indulgence.

Cheesy Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread adds a savory crunch to balance out the short ribs’ tenderness. Opt for a loaf with cheese baked right in or brush the bread with garlic-herb butter before serving. Focus on bread with a crispy exterior and fluffy interior to contrast the ribs’ texture. Garlic bread sopping up the beefy pan juices is about as satisfying as it gets.

Tangy Coleslaw

Cool, crisp coleslaw comprised of shredded cabbage and carrots tossed in a vinegar dressing provides bright contrast next to hearty beef short ribs. The slaw’s crunch and acidity help cut through the rich meat. Customize the dressing with mayonnaise, sour cream, herbs and spices to strike the right tangy, creamy balance. Try swapping in different vegetables like broccoli, kale or apple for unique flavor and texture.

Sautéed Green Beans

Quick-cooking green beans sautéed with olive oil, garlic, lemon and herbs make an easy vegetable side. Blanching or steaming the beans briefly before sautéing ensures they retain their snap. Toasted almonds or panko breadcrumbs lend a delightful crunch. The bright green beans balance the deep flavors of braised short ribs.

Fresh Green Salad

A simple green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette provides brightness alongside rich short ribs. Spinach, kale, arugula and romaine all work nicely. Top with crunchy croutons or nuts, tangy cheese like feta or blue, and fresh herbs. The light greens and acidic dressing cut through the short ribs’ richness for a balanced meal.

Macaroni and Cheese

For the ultimate comforting side dish, try macaroni and cheese with short ribs. The creamy, cheesy pasta complements the beef’s richness. Use sharp cheddar for tang or Gruyère for nuttiness. Top the mac and cheese with crispy breadcrumbs or baked in the oven until golden and bubbly for an indulgent match to the braised ribs.

Polenta

Creamy, smooth polenta has a mild flavor that pairs well with pronounced short rib flavors. Parmesan cheese and garlic add savory depth, while herbs contribute freshness. Polenta is the perfect blank canvas for soaking up the stellar pan juices. Crispy grilled or fried polenta cakes add nice texture contrast too.

Wild Rice Pilaf

Chewy wild rice pilaf provides a nutty, savory base for braised short ribs. Toast the rice in butter before simmering in broth and wine for maximum flavor. Mix in sauteed mushrooms or leeks and fresh herbs, if desired. The simple preparation of wild rice lets the short ribs shine while offering texture and earthiness.

Cornbread

Warm cornbread boasts a slightly sweet, gritty texture that offsets delicious short ribs. Bake yours with corn kernels, peppers, herbs and cheese for a more interesting bite. The cornbread’s crumb soaks up meat juices and pan sauces divinely. For perfect portions, make individual corn muffins or bread sticks.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille, a medley of sauteed vegetables like eggplant, zucchini, tomatoes and bell peppers, provides a fresh counterpoint to beef short ribs. The colorful mix of flavors and textures re-energizes the palate between bites of succulent meat. Garlic, herbs like basil, and olive oil tie the veggies together nicely.

Baked Beans

These saucy, smoky beans offer the comfort of barbecue alongside braised short ribs. Opt for canned beans jazzed up with molasses, mustard and spices or cook dried beans from scratch for superior flavor. Bacon adds a delightful crunch and extra smokiness. The beans’ sweetness offsets the salty, savory ribs.

Glazed Carrots

Glazed carrots caramelize in a pan with butter, brown sugar and citrus for a sweet-tart complement to rich short ribs. Peel and slice carrots on the bias for oval shaped pieces that cook quickly and absorb the glaze. Toasted nuts lend crunch while fresh herbs provide vibrancy. The carrots’ bright orange color livens up the plate too.

Fennel Salad

For a light, refreshing accompaniment, try shaved fennel salad with short ribs. Thinly slice the raw fennel bulb and toss with lemon juice, olive oil, Parmesan and herbs. The crisp texture and anise-like flavor reinvigorate the palate. Pair it with peppery arugula for a burst of contrasting flavors and textures.

In conclusion, beef short ribs pair wonderfully with an array of side dishes. Comforting potatoes, roasted vegetables, fresh greens, polenta and cornbread satisfy. For indulgence, try mac and cheese or garlic bread. Bright acidic salads and slaws cut through the meat’s richness. With the right sides, short ribs become an unforgettable meal.