When the chilly breeze starts to whisper through my windows, I bring out my trusty Crockpot and prepare for an evening of warm, comforting flavors. There’s something truly delightful about sinking into a bowl of slow-cooked beef short ribs, their aroma mingling with the rich notes of red wine and fragrant herbs as they simmer away. This recipe has become a staple in my home, transforming busy weeknights into cozy family dinners or special occasions that feel just a bit more magical.
With each bite, the meat practically melts in your mouth, enveloped in a thick, savory sauce that pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re an experienced home chef or someone simply looking to escape the routine of fast food, this dreamy dish will delight your taste buds and impress your loved ones. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to savor the ultimate comfort food that effortlessly combines ease with indulgence—your Crockpot is calling!
Why love Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Comforting Flavor: The tender beef short ribs infused with red wine create a rich, robust flavor that warms the soul.
Effortless Cooking: Simply sear, add ingredients, and let the Crockpot work its magic while you enjoy your day.
Family Approved: This dish brings everyone together, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Hearty Satisfaction: The thick, savory sauce is simply irresistible over creamy mashed potatoes, ensuring a fulfilling meal every time.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with seasonal veggies or herbs to match your family’s preferences.
Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
• Get ready for a cozy cooking experience!
For the Beef
- Bone-in beef short ribs – Offers rich flavor; use boneless if trimming fat for a leaner option.
- Kosher salt and pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust amounts based on your taste preferences.
For the Aromatics
- Olive oil – Perfect for searing the ribs to lock in flavors; do not skip this step!
- Onion – Adds depth; slice evenly for consistent cooking; shallots are a fine substitute.
- Garlic cloves – Minced for aromatic goodness; fresh garlic is crucial for the best taste.
For the Veggies
- Baby carrots – Naturally sweet and nutritious; substitute with chopped root veggies if desired.
For the Cooking Liquid
- Dry red wine – Provides acidity and complexity; beef broth with balsamic vinegar works as a great non-alcoholic substitute.
- Beef broth – Boosts richness; opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
- Tomato paste – Thickens the sauce and adds a hint of sweetness; no substitutes recommended.
For the Herbs
- Dried thyme, dried parsley, bay leaf – Enhance flavor; fresh versions can be used, just adjust the quantities slightly.
For Thickeners
- Cornstarch – Used for thickening the sauce; you may use flour mixed with water as an alternative.
For Serving
- Mashed potatoes – A perfect side to absorb the delicious sauce; consider roasted veggies or polenta for variety!
Now that you have gathered your ingredients, it’s time to dive into the comforting world of Crockpot Beef Short Ribs!
How to Make Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
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Sear Meat: Season the beef short ribs generously with kosher salt and pepper. Heat a splash of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the ribs for about 1-2 minutes on each side until they are beautifully browned.
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Prep Crockpot: Transfer the perfectly seared ribs into your Crockpot. Sprinkle in sliced onions, minced garlic, and the washed baby carrots. Let those aromatic flavors mingle!
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Add Liquids: Pour in the dry red wine, followed by the beef broth and a good dollop of tomato paste. Toss in the dried herbs—trust me, your kitchen will sing with mouth-watering aromas!
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Cook: Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. When the meat is tender and just falls off the bone, it’s ready to shine.
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Thicken Sauce: About an hour before the cooking time ends, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the delicious broth to thicken it, then cover and let it finish cooking.
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Serve: Ladle the savory short ribs and sauce over creamy mashed potatoes, and garnish with fresh herbs to elevate your dish.
Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious sauce!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
• Perfectly Sear: Let your seasoned beef rest at room temperature for 20 minutes before searing to achieve a beautiful, caramelized crust.
• Enhance Flavor: Searing the ribs really amplifies the richness of the dish, so don’t skip this crucial step for the best taste!
• Time Matters: Stick to the 6 to 8-hour cooking time on low; checking for tenderness will ensure you achieve that fall-off-the-bone perfection without overcooking.
• Freezing Tip: This delicious Crockpot beef short ribs recipe freezes wonderfully! Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months for easy future meals.
• Savour the Sauce: Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning in the sauce before serving; a pinch more salt or herbs can elevate the flavor!
Variations & Substitutions for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Get ready to unleash your creativity with this dish and make it your own!
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Budget-Friendly: Swap the bone-in beef short ribs for chuck roast, which offers a similar flavor at a lower cost. You won’t sacrifice tenderness, making it a win-win!
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Vegetable Swaps: Replace baby carrots with sweet parsnips or roasted red potatoes. This adds a delightful sweetness and a different texture to your dish.
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Alcohol-Free: For a non-alcoholic alternative, increase the amount of beef broth and incorporate a splash of balsamic vinegar for that necessary depth and complexity.
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Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano in place of dried thyme and parsley. Fresh herbs add a vibrant taste and aromatic flair to your ribs.
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Spicy Kick: Want to heat things up? Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a little extra zip. It’ll create a fantastic contrast to the richness of the dish.
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Umami Boost: Incorporate a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce alongside your liquids for enhanced depth of flavor. Your taste buds will thank you for this savory upgrade!
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Creamy Addition: For creaminess, mix a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese into the mashed potatoes before serving them alongside the ribs. It’s a luscious addition that elevates the overall dish!
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Slow Cooker Size: If you’re cooking for a crowd, feel free to double the ingredients, ensuring that your Crockpot is large enough to accommodate the extra servings.
Let your culinary spirit shine by trying out these variations, and enjoy the delicious outcome!
How to Store and Freeze Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on medium heat on the stove for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in 1-2 minute increments until heated through.
Tip: Enjoy the flavors of your Crockpot beef short ribs whenever you crave a comforting meal!
Make Ahead Options
These Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can sear and season the ribs, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, you can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and wash the baby carrots a day in advance. Just make sure to keep everything covered to prevent browning. When you’re ready to serve, simply layer the prepped ingredients in the Crockpot, add your liquids, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to enjoy with minimal effort, making dinner feel effortless on busy nights!
What to Serve with Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Creating a cozy meal means pairing those tender, savory short ribs with delightful sides that elevate the entire dining experience.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate classic side that soaks up the rich sauce and balances the hearty meat beautifully.
- Roasted Root Vegetables: Caramelized and sweet, these veggies add an earthy contrast to the richness of the beef, enriching every bite.
Imagine a plate piled high with tender meat atop velvety mashed potatoes. It’s pure comfort!
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up every luscious drop of sauce, providing that satisfying crunch to complement the tender meat.
- Garlic Bread: A flavorful twist on traditional bread, its buttery garlic richness pairs beautifully, enhancing your short rib experience.
A warm slice of garlic bread beside your ribs will elevate your dinner to a whole new level of cozy indulgence.
- Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette will cut through the richness of the meat, providing a refreshing palette cleanser.
- Red Wine: A glass of the same dry red wine used in cooking deepens the flavor experience, creating a harmonious dining atmosphere.
Sipping a glass while enjoying your meal adds warmth to your dining experience; it’s a match made in heaven!
Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best beef short ribs?
Absolutely! Look for bone-in beef short ribs that are well-marbled with fat, as this will provide the richest flavor and tender texture. Avoid any that have dark spots all over or appear dry; fresh cuts should be red with a bit of shiny fat.
How should I store leftovers of Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure they cool down completely before sealing to help maintain freshness. Enjoy them as tasty leftovers—you won’t be disappointed!
Can I freeze Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Very much! To freeze, place the cooled short ribs in airtight containers or freezer bags and store them for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator, and then reheat on the stove or microwave.
What if my sauce doesn’t thicken the way I want?
If the sauce isn’t thickening sufficiently, don’t worry! In the last hour of cooking, mix about 1-2 tablespoons of cornstarch with a little cold water to make a slurry. Stir it into the sauce, cover it, and let it cook until thickened. This should do the trick!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely, it’s always best to check! If anyone has allergies, make sure to avoid any triggers like gluten if you’re using flour in place of cornstarch. Additionally, if you’re cooking for pets, be cautious as ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to them.
What are some variations to try with this Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe?
Feel free to switch things up! You might use chuck roast instead of short ribs for a budget-friendly option or substitute the baby carrots with parsnips or sweet potatoes for a twist in flavor and texture. Enjoy experimenting with seasonal veggies and fresh herbs!
Irresistible Crockpot Beef Short Ribs for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season the beef short ribs generously with kosher salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the ribs for about 1-2 minutes on each side until browned.
- Transfer the seared ribs into your Crockpot. Add sliced onions, minced garlic, and washed baby carrots.
- Pour in the dry red wine, then beef broth and tomato paste, followed by the dried herbs.
- Cover the Crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.
- About an hour before the cooking time ends, mix cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry. Stir this into the broth to thicken it.
- Serve the short ribs and sauce over creamy mashed potatoes, garnished with fresh herbs.