Short Ribs Crock Pot Recipe : Easy Tender Slow Cooker Dinner

Short Ribs Crock Pot Recipe : Easy Tender Slow Cooker Dinner delivers deeply flavorful, fall-off-the-bone meat with minimal effort, perfect for a comforting family meal.

This dish features beef short ribs, slow-cooked in a rich, savory sauce until the meat becomes incredibly tender and succulent. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, creating a deeply satisfying and comforting meal.

Imagine the rich aroma filling the kitchen, the sight of the glistening, mahogany-colored ribs, and the sensation of the fork gliding effortlessly through the meat. The taste is a symphony of savory and slightly sweet notes, with the beef’s natural richness enhanced by the slow-cooked sauce.

Slow cooking techniques have been cherished for generations, transforming tougher cuts of meat into culinary delights. This particular preparation elevates simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish, suitable for both casual weeknight dinners and special occasions.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and convenience. With minimal hands-on time, a slow cooker transforms humble short ribs into a tender, flavorful masterpiece. It’s an ideal solution for busy individuals who crave a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Variations might include adding a touch of red wine for a deeper flavor profile or incorporating root vegetables like carrots and potatoes for a complete one-pot meal. Popular pairings include creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ready to experience the ultimate in comfort food? Let’s explore the simple steps to creating these melt-in-your-mouth short ribs.

Recipe Metadata

• Categories: Cooking Techniques, Main Dishes, One Pot Recipes, Fall Recipes, Winter Recipes
• Courses: Dinner, Main Dishes
• Cuisines: American
• Keywords: Short Ribs, Slow Cooker, Crock Pot, Beef, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner, Tender Meat, Braised, Savory

Estimated Cost: $25.00 total

Preparation Time & Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Recipe Yield: Serves 4 people

Ingredients

• 2.5 pounds beef short ribs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening sauce)

Instructions

• Step 1: Sear the Short Ribs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season short ribs with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides until browned. This step enhances the flavor and richness of the dish.
• Step 2: Saut the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Saut until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
• Step 3: Deglaze the Pan: If using, pour red wine into the skillet and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. This adds depth of flavor to the sauce. Cook until the wine is mostly reduced.
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker: Transfer the sauted vegetables and deglazed wine mixture to the slow cooker. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir to combine.
• Step 5: Add Short Ribs to Slow Cooker: Place the seared short ribs on top of the vegetable mixture in the slow cooker. Ensure the ribs are partially submerged in the liquid.
• Step 6: Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the short ribs are very tender and easily pull apart.
• Step 7: Thicken Sauce (Optional): If desired, remove short ribs from the slow cooker and set aside. In a small bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour with 1/4 cup of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the sauce in the slow cooker. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
• Step 8: Serve: Return the short ribs to the slow cooker to coat with the sauce. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, polenta, or with crusty bread.

For a richer flavor, consider using bone-in short ribs. If you don’t have red wine, you can substitute with additional beef broth. The cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so check for tenderness after 7 hours on low.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutritional values per serving. Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Essential Cooking Equipment

To prepare this recipe efficiently, the following kitchen tools are recommended:

• Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger)
• Large Skillet
• Cutting Board
• Chef’s Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Tongs
• Whisk

Variations

This recipe can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs:

• Ingredient Swaps: Bone-in short ribs can replace boneless for a richer flavor. Substitute dry sherry or balsamic vinegar for red wine. Chicken or vegetable broth can stand in for beef broth.
• Regional Twists: Add a touch of smoked paprika for a Spanish-inspired flavor. Include soy sauce and ginger for an Asian-inspired variation. Incorporate a can of green chiles for a Southwestern flair.
• Dietary Adjustments: For a gluten-free version, ensure Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free and omit the flour slurry, consider using cornstarch to thicken sauce. For a lower-sodium option, use low-sodium beef broth and reduce or eliminate added salt.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways:

Serve the short ribs over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or risotto for a classic and comforting meal. Alternatively, shred the meat and use it as a filling for tacos, sandwiches, or sliders. It also pairs well with roasted root vegetables, steamed green beans, or a fresh salad. Consider serving the short ribs as a centerpiece for special occasions or a hearty weeknight dinner.

Storage Tips

Proper storage is crucial for preserving the freshness and flavor of the short ribs:

Allow the short ribs to cool completely before storing. Transfer the short ribs and sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Question 1: Can I cook this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, the short ribs can be cooked in an Instant Pot using the pressure cook function for approximately 45-50 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release.

Question 2: Do I need to sear the short ribs?

Searing the short ribs is highly recommended, as it enhances the flavor by creating a rich, browned crust. However, it can be skipped if time is limited.

Question 3: Can I add vegetables directly to the slow cooker?

Yes, root vegetables like carrots and potatoes can be added directly to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients. Note that their cooking time will vary depending on the size and type of vegetable.

Question 4: The sauce is too thin. How can I thicken it?

A slurry of cornstarch and water or a roux can be used to thicken the sauce after the short ribs are cooked. Alternatively, the sauce can be reduced on the stovetop for a more concentrated flavor.

Summary & Final Thoughts

This Short Ribs Crock Pot Recipe : Easy Tender Slow Cooker Dinner delivers a deeply satisfying and comforting meal with minimal effort, promising fall-off-the-bone tenderness and rich, savory flavors.

The recipe’s versatility allows you to customize it to your liking, whether by experimenting with different wines, adding your favorite root vegetables, or adjusting the spices to suit your palate. It’s a forgiving recipe that yields delicious results, no matter your cooking experience.

So, why not give this recipe a try and treat yourself and your loved ones to a truly unforgettable meal? We’re confident you’ll love the ease of preparation and the incredible flavor of these slow-cooked short ribs. Share your culinary adventures with us we’d love to see your photos and hear about any creative twists you added!

Happy cooking! Let us know how yours turns out!