slow cooker short ribs recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
slow cooker short ribs recipe
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The Best slow cooker short ribs recipe

I have been making these slow cooker short ribs for years and they are hands down one of my family’s favorite meals. The meat comes out so tender it falls right off the bone, and the sauce is rich and savory. My kids love when I make this for Sunday dinner because the whole house smells amazing while it cooks. It is also a great recipe for busy weeknights since the slow cooker does all the work. These short ribs are packed with protein and iron, making them a hearty and nutritious choice for any meal.

Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Slow Cooker Short Ribs

4.7 from 1796 votes

These slow cooker short ribs are fall-apart tender with a rich, savory sauce. Perfect for a comforting family dinner or a special occasion.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time6 hrs
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time6 hrs 20 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Ribs

3-4 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1/2 cup red wine (optional)
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 bay leaves

👨‍🍳Directions

1Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
2Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Work in batches if needed.
3Place the seared ribs in the slow cooker.
4In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
5Pour in the beef broth and red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the soy sauce, brown sugar, tomato paste, and thyme.
6Pour the sauce over the ribs in the slow cooker. Add the bay leaves.
7Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is very tender and pulls away from the bone.
8Carefully remove the ribs from the slow cooker. Skim any excess fat from the sauce. Discard the bay leaves. Serve the ribs with the sauce spooned over the top.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Large skillet
Tongs
Cutting board
Knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 120mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 10g🥦Dietary Fiber: 1g🍬Sugars: 6g🥩Protein: 35g

📝Notes

For a thicker sauce, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Short Ribs Works

This slow cooker short ribs recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to a holiday gathering. The meat is incredibly tender and the sauce is full of flavor, making it a dish that everyone will love. I hope you enjoy making this as much as my family does.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Short Ribs

1. Can I use boneless short ribs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless short ribs work well. They may cook a bit faster, so check for tenderness around 5 hours on low.

2. Do I have to sear the ribs before putting them in the slow cooker?

Searing is highly recommended. It adds a deep flavor and helps keep the meat moist. You can skip it, but the flavor won’t be as rich.

3. Can I make this recipe without wine?

Absolutely. Just replace the wine with additional beef broth. The recipe will still be delicious.

4. How do I store leftover short ribs?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often get even better the next day.

5. Can I freeze cooked short ribs?

Yes, you can freeze them in the sauce for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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