These beef short ribs are cooked low and slow in a crockpot, making them super tender and flavorful! With tasty seasonings and a rich sauce, they really are a comfort food treat.
Honestly, you’ll love how easy it is! Just pop everything in the crockpot and let it work its magic. You’ll have a delicious meal waiting for you without much fuss. What’s better than that? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Short Ribs: This cut is key for tenderness. You can also use beef chuck roast if short ribs are hard to find. It’s still rich and flavorful!
Olive Oil: For searing, olive oil works great, but you could use vegetable or canola oil if you prefer. They have a higher smoke point.
Red Wine: Adding wine enhances flavors, but if you’d rather skip it, just double the beef broth. You can also use grape juice for a non-alcoholic option!
Soy Sauce: This adds depth, but if you’re avoiding gluten, try tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute.
Brown Sugar: While it adds sweetness, you can replace it with honey or maple syrup for a different flavor twist.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Short Ribs?
The secret to packing your short ribs with flavor lies in searing and the sauce. Start by searing the ribs in olive oil which caramelizes the meat and creates a rich base.
- Heat the skillet well before adding the ribs to get a nice browning.
- Don’t rush the sauce! Let the onions and garlic soften before mixing in the liquids. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Cooking low and slow in the crockpot is essential for tenderness. It gives the meat time to absorb all those delicious flavors.
Follow these tips, and you’ll end up with short ribs that are not only tender but also bursting with flavor! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 3 to 4 pounds beef short ribs
- 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 more beef broth)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes for preparation, plus a cooking time of about 7 to 8 hours on low (or 4 to 5 hours on high). You’ll spend a little time searing the meat and sautéing the aromatics, but then you can relax while the crockpot does the work!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Ribs:
Start by generously seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and black pepper all over. This will help enhance the flavor of the meat as it cooks.
2. Searing the Meat:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Once hot, add the short ribs in batches (if they don’t fit all at once) and sear them until they are browned on all sides, which should take about 3-4 minutes per side. Once browned, transfer the ribs to the crockpot.
3. Sautéing the Aromatics:
In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the aroma. This will make a delicious base for your sauce!
4. Preparing the Sauce:
Stir in the beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, thyme, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Bring this mixture to a simmer, allowing it to cook for about 3-5 minutes to meld all those wonderful flavors together.
5. Combining Everything:
Pour the sauce mixture over the short ribs in the crockpot, making sure to cover them well with the sauce.
6. Cooking Time:
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 7 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours. The beef should be fork-tender and fall off the bone when it’s done.
7. Serving the Ribs:
When the cooking time is up, carefully remove the short ribs and place them on a serving platter. If you like, you can strain the cooking liquid to remove the solids, then reduce it in a small saucepan over medium heat to thicken it slightly. Drizzle the sauce over the short ribs before serving.
8. Garnishing:
Garnish the dish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot with your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Enjoy your super tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef short ribs!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use a Different Cut of Beef?
Yes! While beef short ribs are ideal for their tenderness and flavor, you can substitute them with beef chuck roast for a similar delicious result. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as different cuts may vary in tenderness.
Can I Cook This Recipe Without Wine?
Absolutely! If you prefer not to use wine, you can simply double the amount of beef broth instead. This will maintain the flavor without any alcohol.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep the meat moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance! Just cook it as directed, cool it, and refrigerate. When ready to serve, reheat on the stove or in the crockpot until warmed through.
These tips should help you enjoy your super tender crockpot beef short ribs even more! Happy cooking!
