Slow Cooker Short Ribs are a culinary delight that transports you to comfort food heaven with every bite. This melt-in-your-mouth dish is not just delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal effort, you can enjoy a hearty meal that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. Using the slow cooker allows the flavors to develop beautifully, making this recipe one you’ll want to repeat again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Short Ribs

There are countless reasons to adore this slow cooker short ribs recipe. First, the simplicity of cooking in a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it ideal for busy weeknights. Second, these braised short ribs are infused with deep flavors from the rich broth and spices. Third, the meat becomes so tender that it practically falls off the bone, offering a truly satisfying eating experience. Fourth, this dish is versatile; you can serve it with mashed potatoes, rice, or even in a sandwich. Additionally, it’s perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers. Lastly, it fits well into a gluten-free diet, making it a safe choice for many guests.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Gather these items:

4 lbs Bone-in Beef Short Ribs
1/4 cup Cornstarch
to taste Salt
to taste Black Pepper
1 tsp Onion Powder
1 tsp Garlic Powder
1/4 tsp Cayenne Pepper
2 tbsp Avocado Oil
2 medium Sweet Onions
4 cloves Garlic Cloves
1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar or Worcestershire Sauce
4 cups Beef Broth
2 tbsp Tomato Paste
2 sprigs Fresh Thyme
2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary
2 leaves Bay Leaves
2 cups Carrots
to taste Optional Garnish Herbs (Parsley, Rosemary, Thyme)

How to Make Slow Cooker Short Ribs Step-by-Step

Step 1: Pat the bone-in beef short ribs dry with paper towels. Mix cornstarch, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Coat the ribs evenly with this mixture.
Step 2: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat, add avocado oil, and sear the short ribs for about 5 minutes each side until deeply browned. Transfer to a plate.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add sweet onions and minced garlic, sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Scrape up browned bits.
Step 4: Pour balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce into the skillet, stirring to deglaze. Then add beef broth, tomato paste, fresh thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves.
Step 5: Transfer the short ribs to a slow cooker and pour the broth mixture over them. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 4-6 hours. Add chopped carrots 1-2 hours before finishing.
Step 6: Once cooked, ensure the ribs are tender. Remove bay leaves and serve with gravy over mashed potatoes, rice, or bread. Garnish with fresh herbs.

Slow Cooker Short Ribs: 5 Secrets to Perfectly Tender Ribs - Slow Cooker Short Ribs - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Keep these in mind:

For the best flavor, use high-quality, well-marbled beef short ribs.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonings to find your perfect blend.
Cooking on LOW offers the best results for tenderness; this is ideal for the slow cooked beef ribs.
Don’t skip the searing step; it adds depth to the overall flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Slow Cooker Short Ribs

These crockpot short ribs pair beautifully with various sides. Here are some delicious ideas:

Serve over creamy mashed potatoes for a classic comfort dish.
Accompany with roasted vegetables for a healthier option.
For a twist, try them in a sandwich with some coleslaw.

How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Short Ribs

After enjoying your meal, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or in a pot on the stove over low heat. This meal prep-friendly dish is great for quick lunches throughout the week.

Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Short Ribs

What’s the secret to perfect Slow Cooker Short Ribs?

The key to perfect slow cooker short ribs is allowing them to cook low and slow, which helps to break down the tough meat fibers. Additionally, searing the ribs before cooking enhances the flavor.

Can I make Slow Cooker Short Ribs ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the delicious short ribs slow cooker recipe a day in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Slow Cooker Short Ribs?

To avoid mistakes, ensure you don’t overcrowd the slow cooker and always season your meat well. Pay attention to the cooking time to prevent overcooking or drying out your fall off the bone short ribs.

Variations of Slow Cooker Short Ribs You Can Try

Here are some variations to keep things exciting:

Try adding different vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for added texture.
Make a slow cooker BBQ short ribs version by adding your favorite barbecue sauce during the last hour of cooking.
For a unique twist, use different herbs like oregano or add a splash of red wine for depth.

Slow Cooker Short Ribs: 5 Secrets to Perfectly Tender Ribs - Slow Cooker Short Ribs - additional detail

For more tips on cooking techniques, check out this guide. If you’re looking for side dishes, here’s a great resource for ideas. Don’t forget to explore these variations to keep your meals exciting!