These beef short ribs are cooked slowly in a crockpot, making them super tender and full of flavor! With juicy meat and a rich sauce, they’re perfect for a cozy dinner.
I love how simple it is to toss everything in the pot and let it cook. Plus, the smell while it’s cooking? Oh my goodness, it’s like a hug for your kitchen! 😍
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: The star of the dish! Look for well-marbled ribs for the best flavor. If you can’t find short ribs, you can use chuck roast instead, but it might not have the same rich taste.
Olive Oil: This is used for searing, but any cooking oil works. If you want something healthier, avocado oil is a great substitute.
Red Wine: It adds depth to the sauce, but if you prefer to skip it, just use more beef broth or some balsamic vinegar for a hint of acidity.
Beef Broth: Homemade broth is great if you have it, but store-bought works just fine. You can also swap with chicken broth in a pinch!
Brown Sugar: This balances the flavors perfectly. If you want a healthier option, try using honey or maple syrup instead.
How Do You Achieve Perfectly Searing Beef Short Ribs?
Searing the ribs before cooking them in the crockpot really enhances the flavor. Follow these steps for a great sear:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil. This helps create a nice crust.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can make the meat steam instead of sear. Work in batches if you need to.
- Leave the ribs undisturbed for a few minutes to let that beautiful browning happen.
After searing, let the ribs rest for a moment. This keeps them juicy during cooking. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Ribs:
- 4 to 5 pounds beef short ribs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For The Sauce:
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more beef broth)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 bay leaves
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of preparation time plus 7 to 8 hours of cooking time in the crockpot. With just a little bit of effort upfront, you’ll have an amazing meal waiting for you at the end of the day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Ribs:
Start by patting the short ribs dry with paper towels. This helps with browning. Generously season the ribs with salt and pepper on all sides for extra flavor.
2. Sear the Ribs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs to the skillet. Sear them on all sides until they are nicely browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds wonderful flavor!
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
After searing, transfer the ribs to the crockpot. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook until softened, around 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
To the skillet, stir in the beef broth, optional red wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, tomato paste, thyme, and smoked paprika. Make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to loosen any tasty browned bits. Once combined, pour this delicious mixture over the short ribs in the crockpot.
5. Add Bay Leaves and Cook:
Add the bay leaves to the crockpot and give everything a gentle stir. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 7 to 8 hours. The meat will become incredibly tender and fall off the bone!
6. Finish the Sauce:
Once cooked, carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot and set them aside. If you’d like, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan. Simmer it over medium heat until slightly thickened for a delicious sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the ribs hot, generously spooning the rich sauce over the top. Don’t forget to sprinkle chopped fresh parsley as a lovely garnish. Enjoy the melt-in-your-mouth goodness!
Dig into your super tender crockpot beef short ribs and savor every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Another Cut of Meat for This Recipe?
Yes! While beef short ribs are ideal for this recipe, you can also use chuck roast or brisket. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut of meat used, so always check for tenderness before serving.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover beef short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water to keep them moist.
Can I Freeze the Ribs?
Absolutely! After cooking and cooling, place the ribs in airtight containers or freezer bags, and you can freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What Can I Serve with These Short Ribs?
These beef short ribs are delicious served over mashed potatoes or creamy polenta, or alongside roasted vegetables. You could also pair them with a simple salad or crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce!
