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Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Recipe

Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Recipe

5.1 from 7 reviews

This Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone meat infused with rich and savory flavors. Slow-cooked for hours, these short ribs become incredibly tender and perfectly meld with a smoky, slightly sweet sauce made with a blend of spices, soy sauce, and Worcestershire. Ideal for an effortless, hearty meal, this recipe pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice and is sure to impress with its deeply comforting taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Beef Short Ribs

  • 4 to 5 lbs beef short ribs
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Aromatics and Sauce

  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 2 bay leaves

Instructions

  1. Season the Ribs: Start by generously seasoning the beef short ribs on all sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step enhances the natural flavor of the meat before cooking.
  2. Sear the Ribs: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs and sear them until they develop a nice brown crust on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This browning adds depth of flavor. Transfer the seared ribs to your crockpot.
  3. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened, scraping up any browned bits from the pan to incorporate those flavors into the dish.
  4. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic with the onions and cook for about 30 seconds until aromatic, filling your kitchen with a wonderful scent.
  5. Make the Sauce: Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for a couple of minutes to blend the flavors.
  6. Combine and Add Bay Leaves: Pour the sauce over the short ribs in the crockpot evenly. Add the bay leaves to impart additional flavor throughout the slow cooking process.
  7. Cook in the Crockpot: Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours. The long cooking time ensures the ribs become incredibly tender and fall off the bone.
  8. Rest the Ribs: Carefully remove the cooked ribs from the crockpot and cover them to keep warm while you prepare the sauce.
  9. Make the Sauce (Optional): For a more concentrated flavor, pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan, skim off excess fat, and simmer over medium heat until reduced and thickened to your preference.
  10. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the short ribs with the sauce spooned on top. These ribs pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy your hearty, comforting meal!

Notes

  • You can omit the red wine to keep the recipe alcohol-free without sacrificing flavor significantly.
  • For a richer sauce, reduce the cooking liquid on the stove and adjust seasoning before serving.
  • Short ribs can be found bone-in or boneless; bone-in is traditional and adds more flavor.
  • Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
  • Skimming fat is recommended if you want a leaner sauce, but some fat adds flavor and richness.

Nutrition

Keywords: beef short ribs, crockpot ribs, slow cooked beef, tender ribs, comfort food, easy beef recipe