As the sun dips below the horizon, the tantalizing aroma of Slow Cooker Tender Short Ribs wafts through the kitchen, wrapping me in a warm blanket of comfort. With rich marbling that promises melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, these short ribs are slow-cooked to perfection in a luscious red wine sauce that transforms them into an irresistible meal. The best part? This recipe not only allows for minimal prep time but also leaves you with a hearty, crowd-pleasing dish that will impress any guest. Whether you’re hosting a cozy gathering or looking to indulge in a soothing family dinner, these super tender crockpot beef short ribs will surely be your new go-to. Curious to find out how this delightful dish comes together? Let’s dive right in!
Why You’ll Love Super Tender Short Ribs
Comforting Warmth: The rich, savory flavors of beef short ribs slow-cooked in red wine create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Effortless Cooking: Just toss everything into your crockpot and let it work its magic. Perfect for busy days!
Fall-Off-The-Bone Texture: Experience the joy of biting into tender meat that practically melts in your mouth, perfect for savoring over creamy mashed potatoes.
Impressive Presentation: Serve these luxurious short ribs at your next dinner party; they’ll be the star of the show!
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it a day ahead and enjoy stress-free entertaining, just reheat and serve. For more delicious ideas, check out my Crockpot Garlic Butter or Crockpot Loaded Steak recipes!
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
• Short Ribs – 2 lbs of well-marbled short ribs ensures ultimate tenderness when cooked.
• Salt & Pepper – To taste, these essentials enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
For the Flavor Base
• Onion – 1 large, diced; it adds a sweet depth to the dish.
• Oil – 1 tablespoon (avocado, canola, or olive) for searing; it enhances browning and flavor.
• Butter – 1 tablespoon (salted or unsalted) creates a rich, flavorful crust.
• Garlic – 3 large cloves, finely chopped; the aromatic component for depth.
For the Sauce
• Beef Broth – 2 cups (about one 15 oz. can) serves as the cooking liquid, adding richness.
• Dry Red Wine – 1 cup (Cabernet Sauvignon recommended); it enhances complexity, but feel free to use beef broth for a non-alcoholic option.
• Brown Sugar – 2 tablespoons (dark or light) balances acidity in the sauce.
• Tomato Paste – 3 tablespoons provide richness and a beautiful color to the sauce.
• Worcestershire Sauce – 2 tablespoons; a splash of umami to elevate flavors.
• Thyme – 1 tablespoon fresh or 1 teaspoon dried; it complements beef beautifully.
• Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon for thickening the sauce if desired.
Enjoy the delightful journey of making these super tender crockpot beef short ribs, perfect for easy weekday dinners or impressing guests!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Step 1: Season the Ribs
Generously season the 2 lbs of short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides. This step enhances the natural flavors of the meat and prepares it for delicious caramelization. Set the ribs aside while you heat a large skillet over medium-high heat to get it ready for searing.
Step 2: Sear the Ribs
Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet. Once melted and shimmering, add the short ribs, searing them for about 30 seconds on each side, until they develop a beautifully browned crust. This locking in of flavors is essential for your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Once all sides of the short ribs are nicely browned, transfer them carefully to your slow cooker. Make sure they are laid flat, allowing them to simmer evenly in the rich sauce. This is where the ribs will take on all the flavors of the accompanying sauce.
Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add 1 large diced onion and 3 finely chopped garlic cloves. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. These aromatic flavors will enhance your sauce for the beef short ribs.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Pour in 2 cups of beef broth, followed by 1 cup of dry red wine, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 3 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce, and 1 tablespoon of thyme. Bring this mixture to a simmer, cooking for 10-15 minutes until it thickens slightly, providing depth and complexity to your sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Cook
Carefully pour the prepared sauce over the short ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well covered. Set the slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 8 hours, or on high for about 4 hours, until the beef is tender and falling off the bone, ensuring every bite of your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs is a delight.
Step 7: Thicken the Sauce
If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a cup of the sauce from the slow cooker in a small bowl, whisking until well combined. Return the mixture to the slow cooker, stirring well to blend, and allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes, thickening beautifully.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once the cooking time is complete, serve your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs hot, spooning the luscious sauce generously over each rib. For an exceptional meal, pair them with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up all that comforting flavor.
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Variations
Feel free to personalize your short ribs recipe with these delightful twists and substitutions that enhance flavor and accommodate different tastes!
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Beef Chuck Roast: Swap short ribs for a chuck roast. It cooks similarly and retains that fall-off-the-bone tenderness with richer marbling.
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Vegetable Boost: Add root vegetables like carrots or parsnips during the last hour of cooking for extra flavor and nutrition. They’ll soak up that delicious sauce!
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Wine Substitution: Use a different dry red wine such as Merlot or Syrah to suit your taste preference, but don’t forget the savory depth it adds.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños for a subtle level of heat that balances out the richness of the sauce.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a unique twist that brings a fragrant aroma to your kitchen.
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Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free variety, ensuring everyone can enjoy this hearty dish.
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Sauce Variety: Instead of the traditional tomato paste, try using a spoonful of miso paste for umami depth, enriching the sauce even further.
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Slow Cooker Specialties: For more flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar to the sauce; both bring a unique twist to the dish!
Enjoy crafting your perfect version of these Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs! If you’re after more comfort food inspiration, check out my One Pot Beef and Crockpot Thai Coconut recipes for more delicious ideas!
What to Serve with Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
As the rich aroma of slow-cooked short ribs fills your kitchen, the anticipation of a delicious meal begins to build.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The fluffy, buttery texture perfectly soaks up the savory red wine sauce, making each bite a delight.
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Crusty French Bread: Ideal for dipping and swiping up the luscious sauce; it adds a satisfying crunch to your meal.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots and parsnips, caramelized and tender, bring sweetness and a pop of color to your plate, enhancing the hearty flavors.
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Garlic Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed with garlic offer a fresh, crisp element that balances the richness of the ribs beautifully.
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Simple Side Salad: A crisp mix of greens with a light vinaigrette brings freshness and contrast, making for a well-rounded meal.
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Rich Red Wine: A glass of the same Cabernet Sauvignon used in your recipe complements the dish, deepening the flavors and enhancing the experience.
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Chocolate Dessert: A small slice of flourless chocolate cake or a chocolate mousse can serve as a rich, decadent conclusion to this comforting feast.
Make Ahead Options
These Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and sear the short ribs and prepare the aromatic base up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating everything separately to keep the quality intact. Store the seared ribs in an airtight container and the sauce in a separate bowl. When you’re ready to serve, simply transfer the ribs to the slow cooker, pour the sauce over them, and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. This method not only saves you time on busy weeknights but ensures that your short ribs remain just as delicious and tender, ready to impress your family or guests at dinner!
Expert Tips for Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
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Searing is Key: Make sure to sear the short ribs until they’re golden-brown. This enhances flavor and gives your dish a richer taste.
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Check the Temperature: Use a meat thermometer; ribs should reach internal temperatures of at least 190°F for that fall-off-the-bone tenderness you crave.
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Let It Rest: Allow the ribs to rest for about 30 minutes after cooking. This resting period lets the juices redistribute, keeping your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs moist.
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Thickening Tips: If you prefer a thicker sauce, adjust the cornstarch amount based on your desired thickness, and ensure to whisk it well before returning to the slow cooker.
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Versatile Veggies: Add some root vegetables like carrots or parsnips in the last hour of cooking for flavor and nutrition—an easy way to elevate your meal!
How to Store and Freeze Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Fridge: Store leftover short ribs in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and delicious while allowing you to enjoy the comforting flavors again.
Freezer: Freeze short ribs in a well-sealed, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain their fall-off-the-bone texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat the short ribs in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or sauce to keep them moist.
Make Ahead Tip: You can prepare and refrigerate the Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs a day in advance; simply reheat for a quick and satisfying meal.
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
What type of short ribs should I choose for the best results?
Absolutely! Look for well-marbled short ribs, usually an English cut, around 1½ to 2 inches thick. The marbling is key; it breaks down during cooking, resulting in that coveted melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
How should I store leftover Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Leftover short ribs can be safely stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just make sure they’re completely cooled before sealing to retain their rich flavors and moisture!
Can I freeze the short ribs, and if so, how long will they last?
Yes, you can freeze your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs! Place them in a well-sealed, freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain their tenderness.
What should I do if my sauce is too thin after cooking?
No worries! If you find your sauce isn’t thick enough after cooking, simply mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with a cup of sauce in a small bowl until smooth. Stir this mixture back into the slow cooker and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes. This will thicken the sauce beautifully, enhancing the overall dish.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Yes, if you’re cooking for someone with allergies, be cautious of the ingredients like Worcestershire sauce which may contain gluten or fish products. For non-alcoholic options, use beef broth instead of red wine. Always double-check ingredient labels to accommodate dietary restrictions!
Can I add vegetables to my short ribs while cooking?
Very much so! I often recommend adding root vegetables like carrots or parsnips during the last hour of cooking. This not only brings in additional nutrition but also enhances the dish’s flavor profile, making your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs even more delightful.
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs for Ultimate Comfort
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides.
- In a hot skillet, add butter and oil. Sear the short ribs for about 30 seconds on each side until browned.
- Transfer the seared short ribs to the slow cooker.
- In the skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Pour in beef broth, red wine, brown sugar, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Pour the sauce over the short ribs in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
- If desired, mix cornstarch with a cup of sauce and return to the slow cooker to thicken for an additional 30 minutes.
- Serve hot, spooning sauce generously over the ribs.
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