This Easy Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe is a real winner! With fall-apart tender meat and a rich sauce, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner. Just season, set, and let the slow cooker work its magic!
Honestly, who can resist a dish that cooks itself? I love coming home to the smell of these tasty ribs. Pair them with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, and you’re in for a treat! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: Rich and flavorful, short ribs are the star of this dish. If you’re short on time or want a different option, you can use beef chuck or brisket, though the cook times may vary.
Olive Oil: This adds a nice flavor for searing. You can substitute it with any cooking oil, like vegetable or canola oil, if you prefer a neutral taste.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics bring depth to the dish. For a milder flavor, you might swap them with shallots. And if you’re not a fan of garlic, just leave it out!
Beef Broth: Using beef broth enhances the flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, vegetable broth works too, or even chicken broth if that’s what you have on hand.
Soy Sauce: This adds saltiness and umami. If you’re gluten-free, you can use tamari or liquid aminos as a substitute.
How Do I Get Tender, Fall-Apart Ribs?
Getting those beautiful, tender ribs relies on low and slow cooking. Here’s how to do it right:
- Searing: Always start by searing the ribs until they’re browned. This step locks in flavor and gives you a nice crust.
- Cooking Time: The longer, the better! Cooking on low for 8 hours allows the meat to break down and become super tender.
- Resting: Let the ribs rest a few minutes after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, making them even more delicious when you serve.
Easy Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 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 soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 2 carrots, cut into chunks
- 2 stalks celery, cut into chunks
How Much Time Will You Need?
This easy recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep, and then it’s hands-free cooking in the crockpot! You’ll need to cook the short ribs on low for about 8 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. So why not set it up in the morning and come home to a delicious dinner?
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Ribs:
Start by seasoning your beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. This step ensures that every bit of meat is packed with flavor!
2. Sear the Ribs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, sear the short ribs on all sides until they’re nicely browned, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. This step adds great flavor and texture. Once done, transfer the ribs to your crockpot.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in your sliced onions and minced garlic. Sauté these ingredients for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent. This will create a delicious base for your sauce!
4. Make the Sauce:
Add the beef broth, soy sauce, brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and optional smoked paprika to the skillet with onions and garlic. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This will help to mix all the flavors together.
5. Combine Everything in the Crockpot:
Pour this delicious sauce over the short ribs in the crockpot, ensuring they’re nicely coated. Then, add the chunks of carrot and celery around the meat for added flavor and nutrition.
6. Start Cooking:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The meat is done when it’s fall-apart tender—just how we love our short ribs!
7. Finish Up:
When the cooking time is up, gently remove the ribs and veggies from the crockpot. If you’d like to thicken the sauce, you can strain the cooking liquid and simmer it on the stove until it thickens up a bit.
8. Serve:
Serve your fall-apart tender ribs topped with the rich sauce. These go perfectly with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that amazing flavor!
Enjoy your delicious, tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Can I use different cuts of beef?
Absolutely! While short ribs are preferred for their rich flavor and tenderness, you can substitute with beef chuck or brisket, though the cooking time may vary a bit. Just ensure it’s a cut that becomes tender with slow cooking!
What should I do if I don’t have beef broth?
No worries! You can substitute beef broth with chicken broth or even vegetable broth if you’re looking for a lighter option. Both will still provide great flavor to the dish.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover beef short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to keep them moist!
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the short ribs and even make the sauce a day in advance. Store everything in the refrigerator, and then simply combine them in the crockpot to cook when you’re ready. Just keep in mind that cooking times may be slightly shorter since the ingredients are already chilled.
