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SLOW COOKER SHORT RIBS

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These slow cooker short ribs are incredibly tender, fall-off-the-bone delicious, and rich in flavor. With a savory sauce made from beef broth, red wine, garlic, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special dinner. Set it up in the slow cooker, and come back to a melt-in-your-mouth dinner!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 lbs beef short ribs, bone-in
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup red wine (or extra beef broth if preferred)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 3 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
  • 1 bay leaf

Instructions

  1. Season the Ribs: Generously season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the short ribs and sear each side for 2-3 minutes until browned. Transfer to a slow cooker.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add onions, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened. Transfer to the slow cooker.
  4. Make the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and soy sauce. Pour over the ribs in the slow cooker.
  5. Add the Herbs: Place thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf into the slow cooker.
  6. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the ribs are tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
  7. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and herb sprigs. Serve the ribs with the sauce from the slow cooker over mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta.

Notes

  • For extra flavor: Add 1-2 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of brown sugar for a slightly sweet, tangy depth.
  • Red Wine Substitute: If avoiding wine, use an additional cup of beef broth and a splash of apple cider vinegar for acidity.
  • Vegetable Additions: For more variety, add mushrooms or celery when sautéing the vegetables.