These beef short ribs are super easy to make in a crockpot! With tender meat that falls off the bone, they soak up all the tasty flavors from the sauce.
I love how I can just toss everything in the pot and let it do its magic while I relax. Perfect for a cozy dinner! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: This cut of meat is key for a rich and flavorful dish. If you can’t find short ribs, you can substitute with chuck roast. Just cut it into chunks and adjust cooking time.
Olive Oil: I recommend olive oil for searing the meat. However, you can also use avocado oil or canola oil if you prefer. They have high smoke points and work well for browning.
Beef Broth: Beef broth adds depth to the sauce. If you’re low on beef broth, chicken broth is a good substitute. You can also use water with a little added beef bouillon for flavor.
Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of regular soy sauce. It has a similar taste and works beautifully in this recipe.
Brown Sugar: If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup, but remember to adjust the amount to taste as they can be sweeter.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor While Searing the Ribs?
Searing the meat is an important step to develop deep flavors. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the oil; this helps to achieve a good sear.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet—sear in batches if necessary. This ensures each side gets a nice brown color.
- Allow the meat to cook without moving it for a couple of minutes until browned, then flip it to sear the other side.
This step boosts the flavor and makes a big difference in the final dish!
How Can I Make the Sauce Even Better?
If you want to enhance your sauce, consider these tips:
- After sautéing the onions and garlic, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine before adding the broth. It adds a nice depth!
- Feel free to add a tablespoon of horseradish or dijon mustard to the sauce for a little kick.
- Add some chopped carrots or celery with the onions for extra nutrition and sweetness.
These little adjustments can elevate an already delicious dish!
Easy Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef short ribs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 7-8 hours to cook on low (or 4-5 hours on high) in your crockpot. Perfect for a lazy day where you want a delicious meal waiting for you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Ribs:
Start by generously seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and freshly ground black pepper on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
2. Sear the Ribs:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, carefully sear the short ribs on all sides until they are nicely browned, which should take about 2-3 minutes per side. This step helps develop a rich flavor! After browning, transfer the ribs to the crockpot.
3. Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes or until they are softened and fragrant. This will build a tasty base for your sauce!
4. Make the Sauce:
Add the beef broth, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and tomato paste to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine everything, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Combine in the Crockpot:
Pour the sauce mixture over the short ribs in the crockpot, making sure they are well coated.
6. Add Herbs:
Add the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf to the crockpot. Cover the pot with a lid.
7. Cook:
Set your crockpot to cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The meat should be very tender and falling off the bone.
8. Final Touches:
Once cooked, carefully remove the ribs from the crockpot and keep them warm. If you like, you can skim any excess fat from the sauce and simmer it on the stovetop for a few minutes to thicken it slightly.
9. Serve:
Serve the tender short ribs with the rich sauce spooned over the top. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your tender, flavorful beef short ribs that practically melt in your mouth!
FAQ for Easy Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Can I Use Frozen Short Ribs in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen short ribs! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water. If cooking from frozen, add an extra hour to the cooking time.
Can I Substitute the Soy Sauce for a Gluten-Free Option?
Absolutely! Use tamari instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative. It has a similar taste and works perfectly in this recipe.
How Do I Store Leftover Short Ribs?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little broth to keep them moist.
What Can I Serve With These Short Ribs?
These short ribs are delicious over creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta. You can also serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
