crockpot beef short ribs recipe
- The Best crockpot beef short ribs recipe
- Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction
The Best crockpot beef short ribs recipe
I love this recipe because it’s so versatile. You can serve it over mashed potatoes, with crusty bread, or even as a standalone dish with a simple green salad. It’s perfect for game days, holidays, or just when you want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the slow cooking method means the meat stays juicy and tender, and the process is hands-off—ideal for when you need to relax while dinner takes care of itself. And the health benefits? Well, lean beef short ribs are packed with protein and iron, which keeps energy levels steady, especially for growing kids or anyone who needs extra fuel. It’s a way to eat well without feeling like you’re missing out on flavor.

Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction
Tender beef short ribs simmered in a rich red wine sauce for a restaurant-quality meal that’s easy to prepare. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef short ribs
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp kosher salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp granulated sugar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup dry red wine
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 cup diced onions
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and sugar. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ribs on all sides until browned, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. -
2
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in beef broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Pour the liquid over the ribs, then transfer everything to the crockpot. -
3
Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours, until the ribs are fork-tender and easily pull apart. -
4
While the ribs cook, prepare the sauce: In a separate skillet, sauté diced carrots, celery, and onions until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomato paste, flour, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf, cooking for 2 minutes. -
5
Pour the red wine into the skillet and simmer until reduced by half, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in the cooked broth mixture from the ribs and simmer for another 5 minutes. Discard the bay leaf. -
6
Remove the ribs from the crockpot, reserving the cooking liquid. Slice the ribs and spoon the warm sauce over the top. Serve with the reserved broth and any remaining sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Crockpot
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow-Cooked Beef Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction
How long should I cook the beef short ribs in the crockpot?
Cook the beef short ribs on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 5 hours, depending on the size of the ribs. The meat should be tender and easily pull away from the bone when tested with a fork.
Do I need to brown the beef short ribs before putting them in the crockpot?
Yes, searing the ribs in a hot pan first adds flavor. Pat the ribs dry, season generously with salt and pepper, and cook them in a cold skillet over medium-high heat until browned on all sides (about 4–5 minutes per side). This step enhances the crockpot’s natural taste.
What can I use as a liquid in the crockpot for the beef short ribs?
A simple liquid base works best: use 1 cup beef broth, ½ cup red wine (optional), or even 1 cup water + 1 tablespoon tomato paste. Avoid heavy sauces like gravy, as they can make the ribs soggy.
Can I add vegetables or other ingredients while the ribs cook?
Yes, but do it carefully. For extra flavor, add 1 onion, 2 carrots (chopped), 1 celery stalk (chopped), and 2 garlic cloves (minced) while the ribs cook on high. Avoid overcrowding the pot—space ingredients so they don’t steam the meat.
