Slow Cooker Short Ribs

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Before diving into my favorite slow cooker short ribs recipe, let’s talk about what you can enjoy with this delightful dish. Short ribs are rich and hearty, making them perfect for a variety of pairings.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food duo. Mashed potatoes can soak up that savory sauce beautifully. You can add a touch of garlic or chives for extra flavor.
Crusty Bread: A good loaf of sourdough or baguette can be the perfect tool for sopping up the delicious juices. Trust me; you won’t want to waste any of that flavor.
Fresh Green Salad: A bright, crisp salad balances the richness of the short ribs. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with a bit of olive oil and salt can complement the dish wonderfully. Think carrots, Brussels sprouts, or zucchini.

With those pairings in mind, let’s take a closer look at short ribs, shall we?

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There’s something truly special about a plate of slow-cooked short ribs. Picture this: succulent beef that melts in your mouth, steeped in a rich, savory sauce, all conjured up in the convenience of a slow cooker. The first time I tasted them, I felt like I had unearthed a culinary gem. Ever since, I’ve been on a mission to get that perfect, tender bite every time I make this dish.

Slow cooker short ribs can be your secret weapon at gatherings or cozy family dinners. They’re straightforward to prepare and can easily be made in bulk. Plus, they free up your time, letting you enjoy the company around you. Whether you’re a busy parent or just someone who loves good food, this recipe is for you.

What are Slow Cooker Short Ribs?

Slow cooker short ribs are beef ribs cooked slowly in a moist environment until they become fork-tender. The method of slow cooking allows the meat to absorb flavors while breaking down the connective tissue.

This results in a dish that’s not just filling, but also packed with flavor and comfort. You pour in layers of savory ingredients, throw in the ribs, and let the slow cooker turn your kitchen into a fragrant haven.

Why This Recipe Works

Why does this method yield such tasty results? It’s simple: the low, slow cooking breaks down the tough fibers in the meat, making them incredibly tender. Add to this the depth of flavor from red wine, garlic, and broth, and you have a recipe that delivers deliciousness on a plate.

The ingredients work beautifully together. The acidity of the wine balances the richness of the beef. Garlic and onion provide a flavor base that enhances everything. The long cooking time melds these flavors into something greater than their parts. You get a dish that’s not just a meal but an experience.

What You’ll Need to Make This Dish

Let’s gather our ingredients. To create your culinary masterpiece of slow cooker short ribs, you will need:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
5 to 6 beef short ribs, each weighing 300–400g (10–14 oz)
2 dried bay leaves
3 garlic cloves, smashed
2 cups (500 ml) dry red wine
1½ teaspoons salt
1 large onion, roughly chopped (brown, yellow, or white)
2 tablespoons concentrated tomato paste
2 cups (500 ml) low-sodium beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 celery stalks, diced
1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 fresh thyme sprigs (optional)
2 carrots, diced

These ingredients work in harmony to create rich, flavorful short ribs.

How to Make Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Making slow cooker short ribs is straightforward. The process breaks down into a few easy steps that yield incredible flavors. Let me guide you through it.

Step 1: Searing the Ribs

First things first, heating a large skillet over medium-high heat is crucial. Add the olive oil, letting it get nice and hot. Season your beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Once the oil shimmers, place a few ribs in the pan, searing them on all sides until they develop a lovely brown crust. This step is vital because it locks in flavors and adds depth to the dish. Set the seared ribs aside on a plate.

Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics

In the same skillet, take advantage of the drippings in the pan. Add the roughly chopped onion, diced celery, and carrots. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Toss in the smashed garlic cloves and stir for an additional minute.

Step 3: Deglazing the Pan

Here’s the fun part! Pour in the red wine. Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon, gathering all those flavorful browned bits. Let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes. This helps to reduce the acidity while enhancing the flavor profile.

Step 4: Building the Slow Cooker Base

Now, transfer the sautéed mixture into your slow cooker. It’s time to add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, bay leaves, and beef broth. Stir everything together to create a delicious sauce that will coat the ribs.

Step 5: Adding the Ribs

Nestle the seared ribs into the slow cooker. Ensure they are mostly submerged in the flavorful liquid. You want every bite to be saturated with sauce.

Step 6: Slow Cooking

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low for about 8 hours (or high for 4 hours if you’re short on time). The slow cooking will work its magic as the meat becomes tender enough to fall off the bone.

Step 7: Serving up the Goodness

Once cooked, carefully remove the ribs. Discard the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if required. You can thicken the sauce on the stove if it’s too thin, or serve it as is. The swelling aromas will captivate everyone at the table.

Tips

Don’t Skip Searing: Those browned bits add so much flavor. It’s worth the extra time.
Use Quality Wine: The wine will directly influence the dish’s flavor, so pick one you’d enjoy sipping.
Add Vegetables Wisely: Mix and match vegetables. You can toss in potatoes or mushrooms for added texture.
Adjust Cooking Time: Every slow cooker operates differently. Check for doneness by ensuring the meat is tender before serving.
Garnish for Flavor: Fresh herbs on top can elevate the dish visually and add freshness.

How to Store Leftovers?

Storing your delicious leftovers is simple. Place any remaining short ribs in an airtight container, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Refrigerate if you plan to eat within a few days. For longer storage, freeze them in portions. They keep well for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Information

Slow cooker short ribs are hearty but can be enjoyed guilt-free. A single serving (about 200g) typically contains:

Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 1g

Keep in mind that nutrition can vary based on specific brands and preparation methods.

How Would I Recommend Serving Slow Cooker Short Ribs?

Serve with Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The sauce from the ribs dripping over buttery potatoes will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Create a Short Rib Sandwich: Pile the meat onto a crusty roll and drizzle some sauce. It’s an indulgent lunch option.
Incorporate into Tacos: Shred the short ribs and serve them up in corn tortillas with fresh cilantro, diced onions, and a squeeze of lime.
Pair with Polenta: The creamy texture of polenta alongside the rich sauce makes for a divine pairing.

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients If Not Available?

Red Wine: Use beef broth if you want to skip the wine. It will still yield a flavorful dish, although it won’t have the same depth.
Short Ribs: Chuck roast is a fantastic substitute if short ribs aren’t available. It will still become tender and delicious in the slow cooker.
Worcestershire Sauce: You can replace it with soy sauce for a similar umami flavor, though the taste will differ slightly.
Vegetables: If carrots or celery are not handy, use parsnips or bell peppers instead. They add a different flavor profile but are just as satisfying.

Carolyn Richardson

Before diving into my favorite slow cooker short ribs recipe, let’s talk about what you can enjoy with this delightful dish.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 15

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

Skillet, Slow Cooker

Ingredients

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
5 to 6 beef short ribs each weighing 300–400g (10–14 oz)
2 dried bay leaves
3 garlic cloves smashed
2 cups 500 ml dry red wine
1½ teaspoons salt
1 large onion roughly chopped (brown, yellow, or white)
2 tablespoons concentrated tomato paste
2 cups 500 ml low-sodium beef broth
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
2 celery stalks diced
1½ teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 fresh thyme sprigs optional
2 carrots diced