Ah, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: **Crockpot Beef Short Ribs**! 😊 There’s something magical about throwing a few ingredients into a slow cooker, setting it, and then getting cozy while the aromas waft through your home. This recipe brings back fond memories of chilly winter evenings spent with loved ones gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter over a hearty meal.
And if you’ve ever enjoyed a perfectly tender, fall-off-the-bone short rib, you know exactly why I adore this dish! It’s a hug in a bowl, all made effortlessly in your crockpot. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!
What’s in Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Let’s talk about the star players in this dish and what makes each one special!
Beef Short Ribs: The star of the show! They’re rich, flavorful, and once they’re cooked low and slow, they melt in your mouth. I usually look for well-marbled options to maximize flavor.
Olive Oil: A little fat to help with that magical searing process before we put the ribs in the crockpot. I prefer extra virgin olive oil for its vibrant flavor!
Salt and Pepper: Simple but essential ingredients that enhance the natural flavors of the beef. Don’t be shy with the seasoning!
Onion: This vegetable adds a depth of sweetness and flavor. I love using yellow onions, but white or even sweet onions will do just fine!
Garlic: Because, let’s face it, everything’s better with garlic! It adds a lovely aroma and flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
Beef Broth: This is the base for our braising liquid. I usually choose low-sodium to control the saltiness of the final dish, but feel free to use your favorite brand!
Red Wine: Optional, but highly encouraged. It adds richness to the sauce. If you’re not a wine drinker, no worries! Just replace it with more beef broth.
Soy Sauce and Worcestershire Sauce: These two sauces bring a savory umami boost that takes the flavor over the top. Choose a low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake.
Dried Thyme and Rosemary: Aromatic herbs that complement beef perfectly. Fresh herbs are fabulous, too, if you have them on hand!
Bay Leaf: A classic addition that infuses the dish with flavor; just remember to fish it out before serving!
Fresh Parsley: For garnish! It adds a pop of color and freshness to the hearty dish.
Is Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Good for You?
Now, let’s chat health a bit! While these short ribs are a total treat, they do come with some considerations.
**Beef Short Ribs:** They’re high in protein, iron, and essential vitamins, but also on the richer side in fat and calories. Enjoy them in moderation, especially if you’re watching your fat intake.
**Olive Oil:** A healthy fat that can provide heart benefits, but I like to use it in moderation here since we’re also getting fat from the beef!
**Garlic and Onion:** Packed with antioxidants and beneficial compounds, both of these ingredients have some notable health benefits while also enhancing flavor.
Feel free to tweak the recipe by opting for more vegetables or serving it with a fresh salad to balance the richness!
Ingredients
– 3-4 pounds beef short ribs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
– 1 bay leaf
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Serves:** 6-8 portions of pure bliss!
How to Make Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Get ready, because this part is easy-peasy!
1. Start by seasoning the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper all over. This step is super important to build up those flavors!
2. In a large skillet, heat that lovely olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until they’re beautifully browned, about 2-3 minutes each. This step adds incredible flavor, so don’t skip it! Transfer those ribs to your trusty crockpot.
3. In the same skillet, toss in the chopped onion and let it cook until it softens, about 4-5 minutes. Now, add in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute—hello, delicious aroma!
4. Pour in the beef broth, red wine (if you’re feeling fancy), soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir it all together and be sure to scrape up any tasty bits from the bottom of the skillet—don’t waste that flavor!
5. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, and add the bay leaf. Now, pour this glorious mixture right over the short ribs in the crockpot.
6. Cover and let it work its magic! Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. You’ll know they’re ready when the meat is tender and practically falling off the bone.
7. Once done, carefully remove the short ribs and set them aside. Don’t forget to fish out that bay leaf—no one wants to find that in their serving!
8. If you want a thicker sauce, transfer it to a saucepan and simmer on the stove until it reduces to your liking.
9. Serve those delightful ribs with sauce drizzled over the top and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Voilà! You’ve made magic happen!
Serve Up a Feast!
Let’s spice this up a little! Want variations? Try adding carrots or potatoes to the crockpot for added veggies—easy peasy! Or, serve these short ribs on top of creamy mashed potatoes, rice, or even noodles for an extra indulgent meal.
I truly hope you give this recipe a try! It’s one of those dishes that warms not just your stomach but your heart too. If you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Let’s cook up some love together! 🍽️💖
