These Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are a real treat! Cooked low and slow, they become melt-in-your-mouth delicious with rich flavors from herbs and spices.
Honestly, I love how easy this recipe is! Just toss everything in your crockpot and let it work its magic while you relax. Perfect for busy days when comfort food is a must!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: The star of the dish! Look for well-marbled ribs for the best flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find short ribs, you can use chuck roast, but cooking times may vary.
Red Wine: This ingredient adds depth. If you’re not using wine, you can replace it with an equal amount of extra beef broth or grape juice for a non-alcoholic alternative.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami to the dish. If you’re avoiding soy, consider using tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. The flavor will still be rich and satisfying.
Fresh Herbs: Rosemary and thyme enhance the dish’s aroma. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried versions can work, but use about 1/3 of the amount since they’re more concentrated.
How Do I Sear Short Ribs Perfectly?
Searing short ribs is key to enhancing their flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Dry Thoroughly: Pat the short ribs dry. This helps them brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Heat the Skillet: Use medium-high heat and ensure your oil is hot before adding the ribs. You want a good sizzle!
- Don’t Crowd the Pan: If your skillet is too small, sear in batches. Overcrowding will trap steam and prevent browning.
- Monitor Time: Sear for about 3-4 minutes on each side until a nice brown crust forms. This caramelizes the meat and enhances the flavor.
Following these tips helps build a rich foundation for your delicious short ribs!
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 lbs beef short ribs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra beef broth)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe requires about 20 minutes of prep time and then 8-9 hours of cooking on low or 4-5 hours on high. It’s a great set-it-and-forget-it meal perfect for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Short Ribs:
Start by patting the short ribs dry with paper towels. This step is essential to ensure they sear nicely. Season the ribs generously with salt and pepper on all sides—this adds great flavor!
2. Sear the Ribs:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the short ribs. Sear them until they are browned on all sides, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. After browning, transfer the ribs to the crockpot.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onions. Sauté until they are soft and starting to caramelize, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant—you want to smell that delicious garlic!
4. Create the Cooking Liquid:
Pour in the beef broth and red wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. This step adds extra flavor! Stir in the soy sauce, tomato paste, and brown sugar until everything is well combined.
5. Combine Everything in the Crockpot:
Pour the flavorful liquid mixture over the short ribs in the crockpot. Now add the fresh rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves on top. These herbs will infuse lovely aromas into the meat.
6. Cook Low and Slow:
Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 8-9 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You want the ribs to be fall-off-the-bone tender, so patience is key!
7. Finishing Touches:
Once cooked, remove the ribs and herbs from the crockpot. If you’d like, you can skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. For a thicker sauce, reduce it on the stove over medium heat.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the tender ribs hot, spooning the sauce over them. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting meal. Enjoy your delicious feast!
Enjoy your super tender crockpot beef short ribs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Beef Short Ribs?
Definitely! You can use frozen short ribs, but be sure to thaw them completely in the fridge overnight before cooking for the best results. If you’re short on time, you can also use the cold water method: place the sealed bag of ribs in cold water and change the water every 30 minutes until thawed.
How Can I Adjust the Flavor of the Sauce?
If you want to enhance the sauce, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of Dijon mustard for extra depth. You can also adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of brown sugar based on your preference!
What Should I Do with Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the sauce thickens, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen it up. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the short ribs and the cooking liquid ahead of time. Just sear the ribs, combine everything, and store it in the crockpot insert in the fridge overnight. In the morning, simply place it in the slow cooker and set the timer for cooking!
