Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

A slow-cooked beef short rib dinner is the ultimate treat when you want to impress guests or make a family meal feel luxurious with hardly any work. Tender melt off the bone meat with rich gravy and vegetables sets the table for holidays or special nights at home.

The first Christmas I served this my partner was certain I spent hours in the kitchen but the crockpot did the heavy lifting and now it is our favorite cozy tradition

Ingredients

• Bone-in beef short ribs: These are the star for juicy tender meat Choose well-marbled ribs with plenty of meat attached
• Baby carrots: They add color sweetness and hold their shape while simmering Go for firm bright carrots
• Mushrooms sliced: Earthy mushrooms soak up flavor and add substance Use cremini or button for best texture
• Beef broth: The cooking liquid for richness Choose low sodium if you prefer
• Red wine: Optional but brings a restaurant depth to the sauce Use a wine you would drink or substitute with more broth
• Tomato paste: This builds savory depth and helps thicken the sauce Opt for a double concentrate tube for convenience
• Unsalted butter: Adds a silky finish and slight sweetness Look for high quality European style if available
• Bay leaf: Gives a subtle herbal note Dried or fresh will both work
• Fresh thyme: Bright fragrant flavor Select sprigs that are vibrant green
• Minced garlic: Boosts the savory notes Use fresh and mince right before cooking for best taste
• Salt and pepper: These are classic seasonings Adjust to taste as you assemble

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Short Ribs:

Rub salt and pepper onto all sides of each short rib piece This brings out the natural flavor and helps form a crust when browning

Brown the Meat:

Heat a large skillet to medium and place the short ribs in to sear all sides about twenty seconds per side This step creates flavorful caramelized bits that enrich the sauce

Layer into Crockpot:

Transfer the browned ribs into the crockpot Follow with carrots sliced mushrooms and fresh thyme for balanced flavor

Add Flavorings:

Pour in beef broth red wine if using and stir in tomato paste butter bay leaf and garlic Make sure everything is nestled together and herbs are on top

Slow Cook:

Set crockpot to low and cook for eight hours until the meat is so tender it falls off the bone The time lets the flavors meld and the beef turns buttery

Finish and Serve:

Carefully remove ribs and vegetables Strain out the herbs and save the flavorful liquid to drizzle over each serving If desired make the liquid into a thicker gravy on the stove with a water cornstarch mix

Pin

The richness of the beef short ribs never fails to bring everyone to the table in my home My little one always requests extra carrots and buttery sauce to pour over mashed potatoes

Storage Tips

Store any leftover short ribs and vegetables in a tightly sealed container in the fridge for up to four days Reheat portions gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of broth to keep things moist

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have red wine just add another cup of beef broth or use water The vegetables are very flexible root veggies like parsnips or chunks of potatoes also work well If you need to avoid butter try olive oil or ghee for a dairy free finish

Serving Suggestions

This dish shines next to creamy mashed sweet potatoes or a classic buttery mash A side of crusty bread or roasted green beans makes the meal feel extra special For holidays garnish the platter with fresh thyme sprigs

Cultural Context

Slow braised beef ribs are a timeless comfort dish in American home cooking and have roots in European cultures as well The crockpot version brings all the depth of traditional braising with the convenience of modern appliances making it perfect for any season where comfort is called for

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute red wine in this dish?

Yes, red wine can be replaced with additional beef broth or water. This keeps the sauce flavorful and suitable for all guests.

→ How do I thicken the cooking liquid?

Combine ½ cup water with 1 tablespoon cornstarch, then whisk this mixture into the cooking liquid on the stove until slightly thickened.

→ What sides go well with beef short ribs?

Mashed sweet potatoes, roasted vegetables, or creamy polenta make excellent companions to balance the rich, savory meat.

→ Can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Is browning the short ribs necessary?

Browning the ribs before slow cooking creates a deep, rich flavor. While optional, it elevates the final dish.