Name: Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-482485H55M11S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 1 cup dried cherries, chopped; 1/2 cup sliced almonds; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Last weekend, I had the joy of preparing Crockpot Beef Short Ribs for my family, and let me tell you—it was an absolute hit! The rich, savory flavors and the tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat filled our kitchen with the most comforting aroma, turning an ordinary evening into something truly special. My family, who can sometimes be picky eaters, couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. And even the leftovers didn’t stand a chance! As someone who loves sharing recipes that bring people together, this one is definitely a keeper.

Cooking is an art, but it’s also a way to connect with loved ones. Every dish has a story to tell, and this recipe is no different. As I was preparing it, I reflected on how food brings us together—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner, a celebration with friends, or a simple meal shared with family, there’s something magical about gathering around a table.

Why You’ll Love Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply enjoying a comforting meal for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing your slow cooker has done all the hard work, and all you have to do is enjoy! Or, picture serving this at a dinner party, where guests are left asking for the recipe by the end of the night.
Budget-Friendly: While beef short ribs may seem fancy, they are surprisingly affordable and packed with flavor. This dish proves that simple, hearty cuts of meat can create a meal that feels indulgent without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy: The slow cooker does most of the work, so you can spend your time enjoying your day, not hovering over the stove. The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep—perfect for beginners or anyone looking for an easy, no-fuss dinner.

Customizable: You can tweak the seasoning and ingredients to suit your tastes. Love bold flavors? Add a touch of smoked paprika or extra garlic. Want a slightly sweet glaze? Drizzle some honey or balsamic vinegar toward the end of cooking.
Crowd-Pleasing: These short ribs are a guaranteed hit with everyone at the table. Tender, flavorful meat that falls off the bone—what’s not to love? It’s hearty and satisfying, making it a perfect dish for families and guests alike.

Ingredients

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need. The full ingredient list and measurements are below in the recipe card.

For the Beef Short Ribs:

4-6 bone-in beef short ribs
1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups beef broth

1/2 cup red wine (optional, for depth of flavor)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
Salt to taste

For Garnish (optional):

Fresh parsley, chopped
Fresh rosemary sprigs (for extra flavor)

Mashed potatoes or rice (for serving)

Instructions

Let’s walk through the simple steps to make this flavorful, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs:

Sear the Ribs: Start by heating the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper, then sear them in batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they develop a rich, golden-brown crust. This step adds depth to the flavor.

Prepare the Slow Cooker: While the ribs are searing, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the bottom of the slow cooker.
Deglaze the Pan: Once the ribs are seared, set them aside. In the same pan, pour in the red wine (if using) and scrape up any brown bits left from the ribs. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly, then add the beef broth, soy sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, thyme, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
Add the Ribs to the Slow Cooker: Place the seared ribs on top of the onions and garlic in the slow cooker. Pour the broth mixture over the ribs, making sure they are mostly covered. Add the bay leaf, then cover and set the slow cooker to low. Let it cook for 7-8 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.

Finishing Touches: Once the ribs are done, remove them from the slow cooker. If you’d like to thicken the sauce, you can transfer it to a saucepan, bring it to a simmer, and cook until it reaches your desired consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the beef short ribs with the sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and rosemary. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4-6
Calories per serving: Approximately 500-600 calories (varies depending on serving size and sauce thickness)

How to Serve Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

These beef short ribs are hearty and satisfying on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your meal:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, perfect for soaking up the rich, savory sauce from the ribs.
Rice: A fluffy bed of rice is another great side dish that absorbs the sauce beautifully. Try a simple jasmine or basmati rice.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts add color, texture, and balance to the meal.
Fresh Salad: A crisp, green salad with a light vinaigrette will offer a refreshing contrast to the richness of the ribs.
Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or dinner rolls are perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce!

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to ensure your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs turn out perfect:

Prep Ahead: The beauty of this recipe lies in the slow cooker. You can prep the short ribs and sauce ingredients the night before, then just toss them in the slow cooker in the morning.
Spice It Up: Want to add some heat? Throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the broth for a spicy kick.

Dietary Adjustments: If you’re watching your sodium intake, use a low-sodium soy sauce and broth. You can also use a gluten-free soy sauce if needed.
Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The meat will remain tender and delicious.
Freezer-Friendly: This recipe freezes beautifully! Once cooled, place the short ribs and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use boneless short ribs instead of bone-in?
A1: Yes! Boneless short ribs will work well, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Boneless ribs cook faster than bone-in, so check for tenderness after 6 hours.

Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for make-ahead meals. You can prepare it the day before, store it in the fridge, and reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat on the stove with a little extra broth to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! This dish freezes beautifully. Once cooled, transfer the ribs and sauce to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Reheat the beef short ribs on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra broth or water to maintain the sauce’s texture. You can also reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Yes! If you’re cooking for a larger group, feel free to double the recipe. Just make sure your slow cooker can accommodate the extra volume. Cooking time should be similar, but check for tenderness around the 7-hour mark.

Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
A7: Yes! This recipe is naturally low in carbs, so it’s great for a keto or low-carb diet. Just skip the sugar in the sauce for a fully keto-friendly version.

These Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are the epitome of comfort food—rich, flavorful, and easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Tender, fall-off-the-bone ribs paired with a savory, aromatic sauce are what make this recipe an instant favorite! Enjoy!