As the sun begins to set and a hint of coolness fills the air, there’s nothing like the comforting aroma of beef short ribs simmering away in my kitchen. This Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe has transformed my weeknight dinners from mundane to magnificent. Just picture it: a busy day melts away as these flavorful ribs cook low and slow, allowing the rich essence of red wine and thyme to seep into every tender bite.
One evening, feeling uninspired by takeout, I turned to my trusty crockpot and created a dish that not only impressed my family but became an instant favorite. With just 10 minutes of prep, these succulent ribs practically cook themselves, making them the perfect solution for those who crave homemade goodness without fuss. Serve them alongside creamy mashed sweet potatoes, and you have a dinner that rivals any restaurant experience. Trust me, your taste buds will be singing! Ready to dive into this savory delight? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs a Must-Try?
Simple prep with only 10 minutes of hands-on time means less hassle for you.
Flavors meld beautifully with the richness of red wine and fresh thyme, creating a heavenly taste.
Unmatched tenderness as the meat practically falls off the bone after 8 hours of slow cooking.
Versatile serving options, pair with creamy mashed sweet potatoes or your favorite side dish for a delightful meal.
Crowd-pleasing dish that guarantees satisfaction, perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Enjoy the comfort of homemade food without the usual cooking stress!
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Ingredients
For the Ribs
• 3 lbs Bone-In Beef Short Ribs – Best choice for rich flavor and easy tenderness when slow-cooked.
• Salt To Taste – Enhances the savory profile of the dish.
• Pepper To Taste – A sprinkle adds just the right kick to balance the richness.
For the Vegetables
• 3 Cups Baby Carrots – Adds a touch of natural sweetness to complement the beef.
• 2 Cups Mushrooms Sliced – Infuses an earthy depth to the overall flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Garlic Minced – Elevates the dish with aromatic goodness.
For the Cooking Liquid
• 2 Cups Beef Broth – Ensures moisture and robust flavor during slow cooking.
• 1 Cup Red Wine – A key ingredient that deepens the taste of these super tender crockpot beef short ribs.
• 2 tablespoon Tomato Paste – Thickens the sauce slightly and adds richness.
• 3 tablespoon Unsalted Butter – Provides a luscious mouthfeel to the finished dish.
For Aromatics
• 1 Bay Leaf – Adds a subtle, aromatic note that enhances the savory profile.
• 8 Sprigs Fresh Thyme – Fresh herbs contribute a fragrant touch, making every bite delightful.
Now gather these ingredients, and let’s keep the warmth of home cooking alive!
How to Make Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
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Season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Then, in a large skillet over medium heat, brown each side for about 20 seconds until a beautiful golden crust forms. This adds depth and flavor to your dish!
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Combine all the ingredients in your trusty crockpot. Layer in the browned short ribs, baby carrots, mushrooms, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, unsalted butter, bay leaf, and fresh thyme, ensuring everything is well mixed.
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Cook on low for 8 hours. Relax and let the magic happen! You’ll know it’s ready when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
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Remove the short ribs and vegetables once finished. Discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs, but hold onto the cooking liquid. This luscious juice will elevate your dish when served.
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Serve immediately, plating the short ribs alongside creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Drizzle the flavorful cooking liquid over the top for an incredible homemade experience!
Optional: Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs for an elegant touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Variations
Feel free to make this recipe uniquely yours with these delightful variations!
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Wine-Free: Substitute the red wine with an equal amount of beef broth for a non-alcoholic option. The dish will still be rich and flavorful!
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Vegetable Boost: Add colorful bell peppers or parsnips to the mix for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. They bring a delightful sweetness!
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Spicy Kick: Incorporate a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a fiery twist that warms your palate with each bite. A touch of heat brings excitement!
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Sweet Twist: Use maple syrup instead of tomato paste to create a subtly sweet and savory glaze, perfect for balancing flavors. Your taste buds will be in for a treat!
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Herb Variations: Switch out fresh thyme for rosemary or oregano to introduce different herbal notes that play well with the beef. Each herb adds its unique character!
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Dairy-Free: Replace the unsalted butter with olive oil or vegan butter to keep this dish creamy without dairy. Our vegan friends will love this adaptation!
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Umami Boost: Throw in a tablespoon of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to elevate the umami flavor, intensifying the deliciousness of your short ribs.
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Mushroom Medley: Experiment with different mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, to change up the texture and earthy flavor profile. It’s a fungi fiesta you won’t want to miss!
What to Serve with Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Imagine setting your table for a cozy family dinner, where every dish sings in harmony with the savory experience of these tender short ribs.
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Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes: The buttery goodness pairs beautifully, balancing the rich flavors of the beef and adding a comforting touch.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and soft within, it’s perfect for soaking up the luscious cooking liquid that drips from the short ribs.
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Green Beans Almondine: This crunchy, nutty side adds a fresh contrast, providing a delightful crunch that complements the tender texture of the meat.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and creamy dressing enhance your meal by introducing a zesty freshness that cuts through the richness.
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Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slightly bitter taste, caramelized to perfection, plays wonderfully against the savory depth of the short ribs.
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Red Wine: Pair with the same robust red wine used for cooking for an elegant dining experience that resonates with the meal’s flavors.
Whichever you choose, each side will enhance your feast, making every bite a cherished moment of home-cooked goodness!
Expert Tips for Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
• Perfect Seasoning: Always season the short ribs well with salt and pepper before browning to enhance their flavor.
• Browning Matters: Don’t skip the browning step! It caramelizes the meat and forms a deeper flavor that enhances your super tender crockpot beef short ribs.
• Avoid Oversaturation: Make sure not to overfill the crockpot; it should have enough space for steam to circulate and cook the meat evenly.
• Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, consider mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stirring it into the cooking liquid after removing the ribs.
• Resting is Key: Allow the short ribs to rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This keeps the juices locked in, ensuring every bite is tender and flavorful.
• Storage Tip: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but the flavor will deepen and improve over time.
Make Ahead Options
These Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are a lifesaver for busy schedules! You can season and brown the short ribs up to 24 hours in advance, making dinner prep a breeze. Simply refrigerate the seasoned meat in an airtight container, along with chopped vegetables, to preserve flavor and freshness. For even easier meal prep, combine all ingredients in your crockpot and refrigerate overnight; just be sure to let the crockpot sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking to avoid damaging it. When you’re ready to serve, just cook on low for 8 hours, and you’ll have a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal effortlessly ready for your table!
How to Store and Freeze Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Fridge: Store leftover beef short ribs in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making them even more delicious!
Freezer: For longer storage, place the ribs in a freezer-safe container, ensuring they’re covered in the cooking liquid. They’ll remain tasty for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen ribs in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through, ensuring they retain their tenderness.
Wrapping: If you have leftover cooking liquid, keep it in a separate airtight container for added moisture when reheating your super tender crockpot beef short ribs.
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best beef short ribs?
Absolutely! Look for bone-in beef short ribs with ample marbling and bright red color. Avoid ribs that are dry or show dark spots, as this indicates age. The marbling ensures a juicy and flavorful result after slow cooking, which is key for our Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.
What’s the best way to store leftover beef short ribs?
After enjoying your delicious meal, place any leftover beef short ribs in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Your leftovers will taste even better as the flavors continue to meld together during storage, so don’t hesitate to dig in!
Can I freeze the Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Very! To freeze, carefully place the short ribs and sauce in a freezer-safe container, ensuring everything is submerged in the cooking liquid to maintain moisture. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on low, either on the stove or in the microwave for best tenderness.
What do I do if the beef short ribs are tough after cooking?
If you find your short ribs are tough, they may not have cooked long enough. Ensure your crockpot is set to low and allow them to cook for the full 8 hours. The meat should easily pull away from the bone when it’s done. Also, always check that you’ve added enough liquid, as it’s essential for tenderness!
Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?
Absolutely! While baby carrots and mushrooms provide a tasty base, feel free to get creative! Potatoes, parsnips, or even celery make excellent additions. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables may require a bit more time to cook through.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Yes! This recipe contains red wine, which might not be suitable for some dietary restrictions. If you’re looking to avoid alcohol, substitute the red wine with additional beef broth or a mix of grape juice and vinegar. Also, always consider checking for allergies related to the ingredients, especially if serving guests.
Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs You’ll Crave Forever
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Season your short ribs generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Then, in a large skillet over medium heat, brown each side for about 20 seconds until a beautiful golden crust forms.
- Combine all the ingredients in your trusty crockpot. Layer in the browned short ribs, baby carrots, mushrooms, minced garlic, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, unsalted butter, bay leaf, and fresh thyme.
- Cook on low for 8 hours. Relax and let the magic happen! You'll know it's ready when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
- Remove the short ribs and vegetables once finished. Discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs, but hold onto the cooking liquid.
- Serve immediately, plating the short ribs alongside creamy mashed sweet potatoes. Drizzle the flavorful cooking liquid over the top.