Baked Short Ribs with Gremolata: A Flavorful and Elegant Dish

There’s something truly special about baked short ribs with gremolata. The slow-cooked, fall-apart tender beef, infused with deep, rich flavors, pairs beautifully with the bright, zesty gremolata topping. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner at home or hosting a special gathering, this dish delivers elegance and bold flavors with minimal effort.

With a simple combination of garlic, lemon zest, parsley, and horseradish, the gremolata adds a fresh, tangy contrast to the succulent short ribs. The result? A restaurant-quality meal that’s both comforting and gourmet.

Why You’ll Love This Baked Short Ribs with Gremolata Recipe

✔️ Melt-in-Your-Mouth Beef – Slow-baked to perfection for ultimate tenderness.
✔️ Rich and Flavorful – The deep umami of short ribs pairs perfectly with the fresh gremolata.
✔️ Elegant Yet Easy – Minimal ingredients, simple steps, and an impressive presentation.
✔️ Perfect for Special Occasions – Ideal for holidays, date nights, or Sunday dinners.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Short ribs taste even better the next day!

Ingredients for Baked Short Ribs with Gremolata

This simple yet flavorful dish uses pantry-friendly ingredients to create an incredible depth of flavor.

For the Short Ribs

Ingredient	Amount
Bone-in beef short ribs (English-style, 10″)	4 lbs
Salt	To taste
Ground black pepper	To taste
Olive oil	1 tbsp

For the Gremolata

Ingredient	Amount
Panko breadcrumbs	¼ cup
Garlic, finely minced	2 cloves
Flat-leaf parsley, chopped	¼ cup
Prepared horseradish	1 tbsp
Finely grated lemon zest	1 tbsp
Fresh lemon juice	1 tbsp
Olive oil	2 tbsp

How to Make Baked Short Ribs with Gremolata

Step 1: Prepare the Short Ribs

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Season the short ribs generously with salt and black pepper on all sides.
• In a large ovenproof skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
• Sear the short ribs on all sides until deep golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
• Remove the short ribs and set them aside.

Step 2: Bake the Short Ribs

• Return the seared short ribs to the Dutch oven, arranging them in a single layer.
• Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil.
• Transfer to the preheated oven and bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls off the bone.

Step 3: Prepare the Gremolata

• While the short ribs are baking, prepare the gremolata topping.
• In a small bowl, combine:
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • Minced garlic
  • Chopped parsley
  • Prepared horseradish
  • Lemon zest and lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Finish the Short Ribs

• Once the short ribs are done baking, remove them from the oven.
• Increase the oven temperature to 400°F (204°C).
• Sprinkle the gremolata mixture evenly over the short ribs.
• Return the skillet to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the gremolata is golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from the oven and let the short ribs rest for a few minutes.
• Transfer to a serving platter and spoon any remaining pan juices over the ribs.
• Garnish with extra chopped parsley and serve hot.

What to Serve with Baked Short Ribs

This savory, rich dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides.

🔹 Creamy Mashed Potatoes – A classic pairing to soak up the delicious pan juices.
🔹 Roasted Root Vegetables – Adds natural sweetness to balance the richness.
🔹 Garlic Butter Green Beans – A simple, fresh contrast to the hearty beef.
🔹 Buttery Polenta – A smooth and comforting side.
🔹 Crusty Bread – Perfect for scooping up every last drop of sauce.

Health Benefits of Short Ribs and Gremolata

This dish not only tastes incredible but also provides nutrients and essential vitamins.

🥩 Short Ribs

• High in protein – Helps build muscle and keeps you full.
• Rich in iron and B vitamins – Supports energy levels and immune function.

🌿 Gremolata (Parsley & Lemon)

• Loaded with antioxidants – Helps fight inflammation.
• Supports digestion – Lemon and parsley aid in digestion.

🧄 Garlic & Horseradish

• Boosts immune health – Known for antibacterial properties.
• Adds bold, fresh flavor – Enhancing the dish’s overall taste.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil.

Freezer:

• Freeze short ribs without the gremolata in a sealed container for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~450
Protein	32g
Carbohydrates	8g
Fat	30g
Fiber	2g

(Values may vary based on ingredients.)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use boneless short ribs?

Yes, but bone-in short ribs provide more flavor. Reduce cooking time by 30 minutes if using boneless.

2. What can I substitute for horseradish in gremolata?

Try Dijon mustard or a dash of grated fresh ginger for a unique twist.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! The flavors deepen overnight. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the short ribs first, then cook on low for 8 hours. Add gremolata before serving.

5. What wine pairs best with short ribs?

A bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, or Malbec pairs beautifully.

6. Can I use fresh breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, but panko creates a crispier topping. Fresh breadcrumbs will have a softer texture.

Final Thoughts: A Gourmet Yet Easy-to-Make Dish

This baked short ribs with gremolata recipe is rich, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to make. With fall-apart tender beef, bold flavors, and a crispy, fresh gremolata topping, it’s the perfect dish to impress guests or enjoy as a comforting meal.

Next time you’re looking for an elegant yet effortless dinner, give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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