Craving melt-in-your-mouth beef with minimal effort? This Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe delivers rich, succulent short ribs braised to perfection in a savory broth, all thanks to the slow cooker. With just 15 minutes of prep and a hands-off cook time, it’s an easy, hearty dish perfect for busy days or a cozy dinner. Infused with rosemary and Worcestershire, this Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe is a comforting classic that’ll warm your soul and satisfy your hunger.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fall-Apart Tender: Slow cooking makes these Crockpot Beef Short Ribs irresistibly juicy.
- Easy Prep: Just 15 minutes to get it going.
- Rich Flavor: Broth, Worcestershire, and spices create a deep, savory taste.
- Set and Forget: Perfect for busy schedules—let the crockpot do the work.
- Versatile: Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or veggies.
Tools Needed
To make these Crockpot Beef Short Ribs, you’ll need a few essentials. Want to upgrade your kitchen gear? Visit Our Shop at for top-quality tools! Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Slow Cooker: Braises the ribs low and slow for your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.
- Large Skillet: Sears the meat for extra flavor.
- Tongs: Flips ribs during searing without piercing them.
- Measuring Cups: Ensures precise broth and sauce ratios.
Ingredients
For the Beef Short Ribs
- 4 pounds beef short ribs (about 8 ribs, boneless or bone-in)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups beef broth
- ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
Directions
- Season and Sear: Season 4 pounds short ribs with 1 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Sear each rib on all 4 sides for 60 seconds per side until browned.
- Prep Slow Cooker: In the slow cooker, combine 3 cups beef broth, ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Stir well.
- Add Ribs: Place seared short ribs into the liquid in the slow cooker. Top with 1 rosemary sprig.
- Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
- Serve: Remove your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs from the slow cooker and serve hot with your favorite sides.
Expert Tips For Perfect Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
- Sear for Flavor: Browning adds depth to this Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe—don’t skip it.
- Check Tenderness: Test with a fork at 6 hours; extend if needed.
- Skim Fat: Remove excess fat from the broth before serving for a cleaner taste.
- Fresh Rosemary: Sub dried (½ teaspoon) if needed, but fresh is best.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping Sear: No browning means less flavor in your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.
- High Heat: Cooking on high can toughen the meat—stick to low.
- Overcrowding Skillet: Sear in batches for an even crust.
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the broth.
- Herb Swap: Use thyme instead of rosemary.
- Red Wine Boost: Replace 1 cup broth with red wine for richness.
- Veggie Add: Toss in carrots or potatoes in the last 2 hours.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover Crockpot Beef Short Ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a slow cooker on low with some broth for 1-2 hours, or microwave until warm (though texture softens). Freeze with broth for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen ribs for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Thaw first for even searing and cooking.
2. What sides go with Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Mashed potatoes, polenta, or roasted veggies pair perfectly.
3. Can I cook on high?
Yes, 3-4 hours, but low heat yields tenderer results.
4. How do I know they’re done?
Meat pulls apart easily with a fork after 6-8 hours.
5. Bone-in or boneless for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Both work—bone-in adds flavor, boneless is easier to eat.
6. Kid-friendly?
Yes—mild flavors make it a hit with kids.
Conclusion
These Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are a tender, flavorful triumph—slow-cooked to perfection with a rich, savory broth. Perfect for a hearty dinner or a no-fuss feast, they’re as easy as they are delicious. Season those ribs, fire up your slow cooker, and savor this Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe tonight—it’s comfort food at its finest!
