Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Name: Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-489131H26M28S
Total time: 8 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 to 5 lbs beef short ribs; Salt and freshly ground 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); 1/4 cup soy sauce; 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 2 teaspoons smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; 2 bay leaves

Author: Amelia Sinclair

Published: October 18, 2025

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Introduction to Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to cooking dinner. That’s why I’m so excited to share my recipe for Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs! This dish is a game-changer. Imagine your family gathered around the table, devouring the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of beef short ribs after a long day. It’s comfort food at its finest, and the best part? You can throw it all in the crockpot and let time do the magic. Perfect for impressing your loved ones without the fuss, isn’t it?

Why You’ll Love This Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

This recipe is a true lifesaver for busy days. You can prep it in just 20 minutes, and then let the crockpot work its magic while you attend to other things. The result? Flavors that meld together beautifully, creating a dish that will delight everyone at your table. Not to mention, the tenderness of the short ribs will have your family asking for seconds, making it a meal to remember!

Ingredients for Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making these Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs a success! Here’s what you’ll need for this delicious dish:

Beef Short Ribs: Rich and meaty, these cuts are perfect for slow cooking. They become tender and flavorful as they cook.
Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these enhance the natural flavors of the beef.
Olive Oil: Used for searing, it adds a lovely richness and helps lock in juices.
Onion: When sautéed, onions provide a sweet and savory base for the sauce.
Garlic: Minced for a fragrant touch, garlic elevates the dish with its aromatic qualities.
Beef Broth: A flavorful foundation for the sauce that keeps the ribs moist during cooking.
Red Wine: (Optional) Adds depth and complexity to the sauce, but feel free to skip it if you prefer.
Soy Sauce: Adds umami and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Worcestershire Sauce: A staple for enriching sauces, it brings a unique zest to the dish.
Tomato Paste: This thickens the sauce and imparts a subtle sweetness that balances the flavors.
Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness that complements the savory notes beautifully.
Smoked Paprika: For a smoky depth, this gives the dish an extra layer of flavor.
Dried Thyme and Dried Rosemary: These herbs add aromatic notes that enhance the overall taste.
Bay Leaves: For a hint of earthiness, they’re perfect for slow-cooked dishes like this.

All exact measurements can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for you to print. Now that you’ve gathered everything, let’s get cooking!

How to Make Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients, let’s dive into the steps of making these Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs. Trust me; you’ll love how easy and rewarding this recipe is!

Season the Ribs

Season Generously

Start by seasoning the beef short ribs with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Don’t hold back—season them generously on all sides. This little step enhances the natural flavor of the meat and sets the stage for something incredible!

Sear the Ribs

Browning for Flavor

Next, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the ribs. Sear them for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they’re beautifully browned. This browning is key. It locks in juices and creates a delicious crust that’ll make every bite irresistible!

Sauté the Onions

Adding Depth of Flavor

In the same skillet, add sliced onion after removing the ribs. Cook them for about 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become translucent. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. These two, my friend, are the foundation for a flavor-packed sauce!

Prepare the Sauce

Combining Ingredients

Now, let’s make the sauce! Pour in the beef broth, and if you’re using red wine, add it now. Follow up with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, smoked paprika, and herbs. Stir everything well and bring this mixture to a simmer for a couple of minutes. This step melds all those wonderful flavors together!

Cook in the Crockpot

Setting It Up

Time to combine it all! Pour the sauce over the seared short ribs in your crockpot. Don’t forget to toss in the bay leaves! Cover it and let it cook on low for 8 to 10 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours. The harder it works, the more tender and juicy your ribs will be!

Finish the Ribs

Serving Steps

Once they’re cooked to perfection, gently remove the ribs from the crockpot. Cover them with foil to keep warm while you enhance the sauce. Pour the remaining cooking liquid into a saucepan, skim off any excess fat, then simmer until it thickens to your liking. Finally, serve those tender ribs topped with your rich, flavorful sauce. They’re sure to please everyone at dinner!

Tips for Success

Don’t skip the searing step; it adds incredible flavor!
Use fresh herbs for a brighter taste whenever possible.
Let the ribs rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
Try adding your favorite vegetables to the crockpot for a one-pot meal.
Make the sauce ahead of time to save extra minutes on busy days.

Equipment Needed

Crockpot: Essential for slow cooking. If you don’t have one, a Dutch oven works too.
Large Skillet: Needed for searing. A non-stick or cast-iron skillet will do the trick.
Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping your ingredients.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helpful for accurate ingredient portions.
Slotted Spoon: Perfect for serving the ribs without the sauce running off.

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy twist.
Mushroom Medley: Include sliced mushrooms in the crockpot for an earthy flavor.
BBQ Style: Substitute some beef broth with your favorite BBQ sauce for a smoky, tangy profile.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh thyme or basil instead of dried herbs for a fresh aroma.
Vegetarian Option: Use jackfruit in place of beef, following the same cooking method for a plant-based meal.

Serving Suggestions for Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice for a classic pairing.
Roasted vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a healthy crunch.
A glass of full-bodied red wine complements the richness of the ribs beautifully.
Finish with fresh herbs on top for an elegant presentation.

FAQs about Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Can I use other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef short ribs are ideal, you can use chuck roast or brisket. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are tender.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for future meals!

Can I cook this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes, you can make it on the stovetop. Simmer the ingredients in a heavy pot, covered, for about 3 to 4 hours until the ribs are fork-tender.

What can I serve with beef short ribs?
These ribs pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery corn, or even a crisp salad to cut through the richness.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Certainly! Just ensure you use gluten-free soy sauce and check all labels for any hidden gluten in the ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Making these Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs is truly a delightful experience that brings joy to both the cook and the diners. The aroma wafting through your home while they cook is simply irresistible. You’ll find that they not only nourish the body but also create cherished family moments around the dinner table. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish will be a star attraction. So, gather your loved ones, share stories, and relish every tender bite; it’s comfort food that warms the heart as much as it fills the belly!