Craving something rich, fall-off-the-bone tender, and deeply flavorful? Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs might just be your new comfort food favorite. These ribs are braised low and slow in a luscious sauce until they practically melt in your mouth, offering a taste that’s as satisfying as it is effortless to prepare.

Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re feeding a crowd, these short ribs are the definition of hearty home cooking. With just a few steps and a good slow cooker, you’ll have a dish that’s both rustic and elegant. Pair them with mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or even buttery noodles for a complete meal that everyone will remember.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Making Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs is as much about the process as it is about the flavor. Here’s what you need to get started:

1. Slow Cooker: This is the star of the show. A reliable slow cooker ensures low, consistent heat over several hours, allowing the meat to become incredibly tender without drying out.

2. Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Pan: For searing the short ribs before slow cooking. Searing caramelizes the surface, enhancing flavor and giving the dish that rich, savory depth.

3. Tongs: Essential for handling the meat during browning and transferring it safely.

4. Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: To prep vegetables like onions, carrots, or garlic if your recipe includes them.

5. Measuring Cups & Spoons: To get your sauce ingredients just right—especially when working with wine, broth, or soy sauce.

6. Whisk: Helpful for mixing the sauce or slurry if thickening the gravy at the end.

These tools make the cooking process more efficient and enjoyable, helping you build layers of flavor without the fuss.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

Beef Short Ribs
These are the centerpiece of the dish. Look for meaty, bone-in short ribs, which provide rich flavor and a satisfying texture when slow-cooked.

Onion
Sliced onions break down during cooking and add a sweet, savory undertone to the sauce.

Garlic Cloves
Garlic infuses the meat and sauce with a deep aromatic base that enhances the overall depth.

Carrots
Optional, but they absorb the beefy flavor and provide a tender contrast to the richness of the ribs.

Beef Broth
Acts as the primary braising liquid. Choose a high-quality broth for maximum flavor.

Red Wine
Adds depth, acidity, and complexity to the sauce. You can substitute with additional broth if you prefer to cook without alcohol.

Tomato Paste
Adds body and a slight tanginess that balances the richness of the meat.

Worcestershire Sauce
A small amount goes a long way in adding umami and enhancing the savory notes.

Bay Leaves & Fresh Thyme
These aromatics slowly release flavor over hours of cooking, giving the dish a subtle herbal touch.

Salt & Black Pepper
For seasoning and bringing out the full flavor of each ingredient.

Cornstarch (Optional)
Used to thicken the sauce at the end if a richer gravy is desired.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

Step 1: Sear the Ribs for Maximum Flavor

Heat a bit of oil in a cast iron skillet. Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Sear them on all sides until a golden crust forms. This step locks in juices and builds deep flavor.

Step 2: Prep the Aromatics

While the ribs are browning, slice onions and carrots. Mince the garlic. Add these to the bottom of your slow cooker.

Step 3: Layer and Pour the Sauce

Place seared ribs over the vegetables. In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. Pour the mixture over the ribs.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The meat should be tender and pull apart easily with a fork.

Step 5: Finish with Sauce Reduction (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the ribs and veggies, then pour the liquid into a saucepan. Simmer until reduced. Stir in a cornstarch slurry if you want a gravy-like consistency.

How to Serve and Store Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

When ready to serve, spoon the tender short ribs over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, or a velvety polenta base. Their robust flavor pairs beautifully with starchy sides that can soak up the rich, slow-cooked sauce.

For an elegant presentation, garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme or a sprinkle of chopped parsley. A side of roasted vegetables or crusty bread can round out the meal.

To store leftovers, let the short ribs cool completely. Transfer them to an airtight container along with the sauce. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep the meat juicy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cut of meat is best for this recipe?

Bone-in beef short ribs are ideal. They become incredibly tender when slow-cooked and the bone adds extra flavor to the dish.

Can I skip the searing step?

Technically yes, but it’s not recommended. Searing adds a depth of flavor that you won’t get by slow cooking alone.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors deepen overnight. Reheat on the stove or in the oven for best results.

What if I don’t want to use wine?

No problem—just use extra beef broth. You can also add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity.

How do I know when the ribs are done?

They should be fork-tender and easily pull apart. If they’re still tough, give them another hour in the slow cooker.

Can I use boneless short ribs?

Yes, though bone-in ribs provide more flavor and richness. If using boneless, adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook faster.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, a rich, meaty one-pan pasta dish that balances creamy sauce with tender beef.

Or check out the Hearty One-Pot Beef Stew Recipe, which brings rustic comfort with every bite.

For something saucy and cheesy, don’t miss the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti.

Also worth exploring: Wendy’s Chili Recipe for a cozy bowl full of bold flavor, or the Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce if you love creamy garlic-forward dishes.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

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If you try it, I’d love to hear your twist on it. Did you skip the wine? Add mushrooms? Share in the comments below—I’m always curious to see how you make it yours.

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