Slow Cooker Short Ribs

Introduction

Slow Cooker Short Ribs are a rich, tender, and comforting meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions. Beef short ribs are known for their deep flavor and juicy texture. When cooked slowly for several hours, the meat becomes incredibly tender and almost falls off the bone.

This recipe uses a slow cooker, which makes it very easy to prepare. Once the ingredients are added, the slow cooker does most of the work. The ribs cook slowly in a savory sauce made with broth, garlic, herbs, and spices. As they cook, the flavors blend together and create a delicious sauce.

One of the best things about slow cooker recipes is convenience. You can prepare the ingredients in the morning and let the ribs cook throughout the day. By dinner time, you will have a warm and flavorful meal ready to enjoy.

Slow Cooker Short Ribs are perfect when served with mashed potatoes, rice, or roasted vegetables. If you enjoy hearty meals that are simple to prepare but full of flavor, this recipe is definitely worth trying.

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Cooking Time & Prep Time

• Preparation Time: 15–20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 6–8 hours (low setting) or 4–5 hours (high setting)
• Total Time: About 6–8 hours
• Servings: 4 servings

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Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need:

• 2 pounds beef short ribs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped

Optional garnish

• Fresh parsley

Helpful Tip: Bone-in short ribs usually have the best flavor and become very tender when slow cooked.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season the ribs

Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels.

Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika on all sides.

This helps build flavor before cooking.

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2. Sear the ribs

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Place the ribs in the skillet and sear them for 2–3 minutes per side until browned.

Small Tip: Browning the ribs adds extra flavor to the dish.

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3. Prepare the slow cooker

Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the slow cooker.

These vegetables will flavor the sauce as the ribs cook.

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4. Add the ribs

Place the browned short ribs on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.

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5. Mix the sauce

In a bowl, combine the beef broth, tomato sauce, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and brown sugar.

Stir well.

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6. Add garlic

Sprinkle the minced garlic over the ribs.

Then pour the sauce mixture into the slow cooker.

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7. Cook the ribs

Cover the slow cooker with the lid.

Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

The ribs are ready when the meat becomes very tender.

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8. Check tenderness

The meat should easily pull away from the bone with a fork.

If it is still firm, cook for another 30 minutes.

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9. Thicken the sauce (optional)

If you want a thicker sauce, remove the ribs and simmer the liquid in a saucepan for about 5 minutes.

You can also add a small cornstarch slurry.

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10. Serve the ribs

Place the ribs on a plate and spoon the sauce and vegetables over the top.

Sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired.

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Tips & Variations

This recipe can be customized in several ways.

Add vegetables

Potatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers work well.

Make it spicy

Add red pepper flakes or chili powder.

Use red wine

Replace part of the broth with red wine for deeper flavor.

Make it gluten-free

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

Try different herbs

Bay leaves or oregano can add more flavor.

Extra flavor tip:
A splash of balsamic vinegar before serving adds richness.

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Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

Based on 4 servings.

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 10 g
• Fat: 28 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sodium: 580 mg

Values may vary depending on ingredients used.

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Health Benefits

Slow Cooker Short Ribs provide several nutrients.

High in protein

Beef provides protein that helps build and repair muscles.

Rich in iron

Red meat contains iron that supports healthy blood and energy levels.

Contains essential vitamins

Beef contains vitamins like B12 that support the nervous system.

Vegetables add nutrients

Carrots, celery, and onions provide vitamins and fiber.

Slow cooking enhances flavor

Cooking slowly allows natural flavors to develop without many extra ingredients.

Helpful Tip: Serving the ribs with vegetables helps create a balanced meal.

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Serving Suggestions

Slow Cooker Short Ribs pair well with many side dishes.

Serve with mashed potatoes

The creamy potatoes soak up the rich sauce.

Add rice

Rice is another great option for enjoying the flavorful sauce.

Serve with roasted vegetables

Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans add freshness.

Add crusty bread

Bread can be used to enjoy every bit of the sauce.

Storing leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

Short ribs freeze well for up to 3 months.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Short Ribs are a comforting and flavorful meal that becomes incredibly tender after hours of slow cooking. The rich sauce, soft vegetables, and juicy meat create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.

This recipe is simple to prepare and perfect for busy days when you want a homemade meal waiting for you. The slow cooker allows the flavors to develop while requiring very little effort.

Whether served with mashed potatoes, rice, or vegetables, Slow Cooker Short Ribs are sure to impress family and friends.

Try making this recipe at home and enjoy a warm, hearty meal that everyone will love. And if you enjoy it, share the recipe with others so they can experience it too!