Slow cooker short ribs are fall-off-the-bone tender and packed with deep, rich flavor. Cooking them low and slow allows the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with a savory sauce that’s perfect for spooning over mashed potatoes or rice.
Ingredients:
- 3–4 lbs beef short ribs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (or more beef broth)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 sprigs fresh rosemary (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
- Season and sear the short ribs:
- Season the short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. Transfer the browned short ribs to the slow cooker.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Deglaze with wine:
- Pour in the red wine (or extra beef broth), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes, then transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add the remaining ingredients:
- Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves to the slow cooker. Stir everything together, ensuring the short ribs are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Slow cook:
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the short ribs are tender and the meat easily falls off the bone.
- Serve:
- Once the ribs are done, discard the rosemary sprigs, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Serve the short ribs with the rich sauce spooned over mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta, and enjoy!
These slow cooker short ribs are incredibly tender and flavorful, making them a perfect comforting meal for any occasion. The sauce is deeply savory, thanks to the red wine and herbs, creating a dish that’s rich and satisfying!
