These tender beef short ribs cooked in a crockpot are a total treat! With rich flavors and a fall-off-the-bone texture, they make every meal feel special without all the fuss.
Honestly, who can resist coming home to the smell of delicious ribs? I love serving them with mashed potatoes for a cozy dinner that feels fancy but is super easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: These are the stars of the dish, rich and flavorful. If you can’t find short ribs, try using chuck roast or brisket cut into large pieces. They won’t be quite the same, but they’ll still come out delicious.
Red Wine: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with more beef broth or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor. I always recommend using wine for the richness it adds, but it’s okay to skip if needed!
Tomato Paste: This helps deepen the flavor. If you don’t have it, try crushed tomatoes or even a tablespoon of ketchup in a pinch. It offers a different dimension but still works well.
Fresh Herbs: Dried thyme and rosemary are perfect here, but if you have fresh herbs, feel free to use them. Use about three times the amount if fresh. I love the burst of freshness they provide!
How Can I Ensure My Short Ribs are Tender?
The key to tender short ribs is slow cooking! Cooking them low and slow allows the connective tissues to break down, making the meat melt in your mouth. Here are some tips:
- Sear your ribs first to lock in flavor and encourage browning.
- Make sure the ribs are submerged in sauce for even cooking.
- The longer you cook them, the better they get. Don’t rush the process!
Lastly, patience pays off. Let them sit for a few minutes after cooking before serving. It helps the flavors settle, making every bite delicious!
Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pounds beef short ribs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional but recommended)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take approximately 15 minutes to prepare and then 7-8 hours to cook on low or 4-5 hours on high. Perfect for a day when you want something hearty and delicious with minimal effort!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Ribs:
Start by seasoning the beef short ribs with a generous amount of salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. This step adds flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Ribs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ribs and sear them on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step helps lock in the flavor. Once browned, transfer the ribs to your crockpot.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Cook them until they become soft, around 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute, or until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
Next, stir in the beef broth, red wine, soy sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for 3-5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
5. Combine in the Crockpot:
Pour this savory sauce over the short ribs in the crockpot, ensuring they are well coated.
6. Let It Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The ribs should be incredibly tender and fall off the bone when done!
7. Final Touches:
Once cooked, carefully remove the bay leaves. Plate the ribs and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a lovely pop of color and freshness.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the tender short ribs hot, spooning the delicious sauce over the top. They pair perfectly with fluffy mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for This Recipe?
Yes! While short ribs are ideal for this recipe thanks to their rich flavor and tenderness, you can use chuck roast or brisket cut into large pieces if short ribs are unavailable. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the cut you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Red Wine?
No problem! You can substitute the red wine with additional beef broth. If you want to enhance the flavor a bit, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar in place of the wine. It’ll still be delicious!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little extra broth if needed to keep them moist and flavorful!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the short ribs and sauce a day in advance, then refrigerate them. On the day you plan to serve, simply reheat the mixture in the crockpot until warmed through. This makes it perfect for meal prep or entertaining!
