These beef short ribs cooked in a slow cooker come out super tender and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, they practically fall off the bone!
Who doesn’t love meat that’s so tender, it makes you want to dance? 🎉 I usually serve these ribs with mashed potatoes to soak up all that tasty sauce. You’ll want seconds for sure!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: This recipe relies on bone-in beef short ribs for their rich flavor and tenderness. If you can’t find them, try flanken-style short ribs, but adjust cooking time as they can vary in thickness.
Red Wine: The red wine adds depth to the sauce. If you prefer not to use it, replace it with more beef broth or use grape juice for a non-alcoholic option. I find the richness deepens with the wine, but it works without well!
Soy Sauce: This adds umami and salt. If you are gluten-free, opt for coconut aminos or tamari. Both provide similar flavor without gluten.
Tomato Paste: This ingredient helps thicken the sauce. If you don’t have it on hand, you can use canned crushed tomatoes, but it may change the flavor slightly.
Why is Browning the Meat Important?
Browning the beef short ribs gives them a deeper flavor. It develops a beautiful caramelized crust that enhances the overall taste of your dish. Plus, it seals in the juices!
- Start by patting the ribs dry; this helps them brown. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat, and brown each side for 3-4 minutes until golden.
- This step is crucial to building flavor, so don’t skip it, even if you’re in a rush!
Super Tender Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 pounds beef short ribs (bone-in)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional; can substitute with additional beef broth)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, with a cooking time of 8-9 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high in the slow cooker. Perfect for a busy day when you want to come home to a delicious, hearty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beef:
Start by patting the beef short ribs dry with a paper towel. Season them generously with salt and black pepper. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
2. Sear the Ribs:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the short ribs and brown them on all sides, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step is key to getting a great flavor! Once browned, transfer the ribs to the slow cooker.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté until softened, which takes about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. This will create a wonderful aroma!
4. Make the Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Bring this mixture to a simmer while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds even more flavor to your sauce!
5. Combine Ingredients:
Pour the sauce mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring they are well-coated.
6. Slow Cook the Ribs:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours, or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The beef should be extremely tender and falling off the bone when they are ready.
7. Finish Up:
Once cooked, carefully remove the short ribs from the slow cooker and cover them to keep warm. If you’d like a thicker sauce, strain the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer it until slightly thickened.
8. Serve:
Serve the short ribs with the sauce drizzled on top, alongside mashed potatoes or your favorite sides. Enjoy every tender bite!
Enjoy your super tender, fall-off-the-bone slow cooker beef short ribs!
FAQ for Super Tender Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
While this recipe is designed for beef short ribs, you can use other cuts like chuck roast. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary; ensure the meat is tender before serving.
Is There a Gluten-Free Option for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Substitute soy sauce with gluten-free alternatives like coconut aminos or tamari. You can also skip the red wine or use a gluten-free broth instead.
Can I Make This Recipe with Frozen Short Ribs?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best method is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re short on time, use the cold water method: seal in a plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover short ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or gently warm them on the stove with a splash of beef broth or water to keep them moist.
