Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are a hearty, comforting dish that’s full of rich, deep flavors. Slow-cooked until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender, these ribs are perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. The crockpot does all the work, making it an easy, hands-off way to enjoy a gourmet-style meal at home.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

beef short ribsolive oiloniongarlicbeef brothred wine (optional)tomato pasteWorcestershire saucethymebay leavesaltblack pepper

directions

Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper on all sides.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides. Transfer to the crockpot.

In the same skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.

Deglaze the skillet with red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits.

Pour the onion mixture into the crockpot over the ribs.

Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and bay leaves to the crockpot.

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.

Remove the ribs and skim excess fat from the sauce. Optional: simmer the sauce to thicken before serving.

Serve hot with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4-6 people.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 8 hours (low) or 4-5 hours (high)Total time: 8-8.5 hours

Variations

Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine for a tangy twist.

Add carrots and mushrooms to the crockpot for a built-in side dish.

Try fresh rosemary in place of thyme for a different herb flavor.

Serve over creamy polenta for a restaurant-style presentation.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.The cooked ribs can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this without searing the ribs?

Yes, but searing adds flavor and helps lock in juices.

Can I cook this recipe overnight?

Absolutely, set it on low before bedtime and it’ll be ready by morning.

Can I use boneless short ribs?

Yes, though bone-in provides more flavor and richness to the sauce.

What can I use instead of red wine?

Beef broth with a splash of balsamic vinegar or grape juice works well.

Do I need to thicken the sauce?

Not necessarily, but simmering the liquid separately can create a richer glaze.

Can I use a different cut of beef?

Chuck roast or beef shanks can be good substitutes, though cooking time may vary.

Is it okay to skip the tomato paste?

You can, but it adds depth and umami to the sauce.

Can I add potatoes directly in the crockpot?

Yes, cut them into large chunks and add during the last 3-4 hours of cooking.

Are crockpot ribs better on low or high?

Low and slow yields the most tender results, but high is fine for a quicker meal.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

Conclusion

Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are the ultimate comfort food—rich, flavorful, and effortlessly delicious. Perfect for busy days or elegant dinners, this recipe brings gourmet flavor with minimal effort. Once you try them, these ribs are sure to earn a regular spot in your meal rotation.