Jul 14 2026
Restaurants›ZAZA Italian Gastrobar›Short Rib Mac & Cheese Recipe

Short Rib Mac & Cheese Recipe

Inspired by ZAZA Italian Gastrobar
Time3h
Serves6

Creamy mozzarella, shredded short rib, crispy crust.

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Ingredients

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Short Rib

Mac & Cheese

Method

Preparing Short Ribs

  1. 1

    Sear the Short Ribs

    In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and black pepper. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the short ribs and set aside.

  2. 2

    Sauté Aromatics

    In the same pot, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.

  3. 3

    Braise the Short Ribs

    Return the short ribs to the pot and add the beef broth and bay leaf. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let cook for about 2.5-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

  4. 4

    Shred the Meat

    Once cooked, remove the short ribs from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Discard the bones and bay leaf. Set the shredded meat aside.

Making Mac & Cheese

  1. 5

    Cook the Pasta

    While the short ribs are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add elbow macaroni and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. 6

    Prepare the Cheese Sauce

    In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until bubbly. Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.

  3. 7

    Add Cheese

    Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the mozzarella and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.

  4. 8

    Combine Ingredients

    Add the cooked macaroni and shredded short ribs to the cheese sauce. Stir until well combined.

  5. 9

    Prepare for Baking

    Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.

  6. 10

    Bake

    Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.

  7. 11

    Garnish and Serve

    Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot.

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