Irresistible Crockpot Beef Short Ribs for Cozy Nights

Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are like a warm hug on a chilly day, enveloping your senses with their savory aroma and tender texture. Imagine succulent, fall-off-the-bone beef that practically begs to be paired with mashed potatoes or a crusty piece of bread. It’s the kind of dish that makes you forget your worries and say “I love you” in ways that words just can’t capture.

Now, picture this: It’s Sunday evening, and the whole family is gathered around the table as the rich scent of beef short ribs wafts through the air. You can almost hear their stomachs growling in anticipation. This dish isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories and sharing stories over delicious comfort. Trust me, you’ll want to make this for every gathering, holiday, or simply when you need an excuse to indulge in something utterly divine.

Ingredients for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Beef Short Ribs: Look for well-marbled ribs for optimal tenderness and flavor; about 3-4 pounds should do.

• Onions: Sweet onions work best; they add depth to the flavor while caramelizing beautifully during cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring a fragrant kick; don’t skimp on them unless you’re trying to ward off vampires.

• Beef Broth: A rich broth enhances the beefiness; opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.

• Red Wine: A good choice here is a dry red wine; it adds complexity and balances the flavors.

For the Sauce:

• Balsamic Vinegar: This brings a tangy sweetness that complements the savory elements perfectly.

• Brown Sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by chopping up your onions and mincing those garlic cloves like they owe you money. Set them aside because they’re about to become stars of this show.

Step 2: Sear the Ribs

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, sear your short ribs on all sides until they’re gloriously browned—about three minutes per side. This step adds depth and flavor that will make everyone wonder if you hired a chef.

Step 3: Assemble Everything in Your Crockpot

Place those beautiful ribs in the crockpot along with the onions and garlic. Pour in the beef broth and red wine like you’re conducting an orchestra—gracefully and artfully.

Step 4: Mix Up Your Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and brown sugar until well combined. Pour this heavenly mixture over the ribs in the crockpot. Don’t worry; it will work its magic as everything cooks down.

Step 5: Set It and Forget It

Cover and cook on low for about eight hours or high for four hours. You’ll want your kitchen smelling like heaven by now—just try not to eat all of it before serving!

Step 6: Serve Up

Once done, transfer those succulent short ribs onto plates or bowls with some of that glorious sauce drizzled on top. Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for an unforgettable meal that’ll have everyone begging for seconds.

This recipe invites laughter, storytelling, and perhaps even some spilled wine—because who doesn’t love a little chaos when good food is involved? So roll up those sleeves, gather your favorite people (and maybe some napkins), and get ready for an unforgettable culinary adventure!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by seasoning the beef short ribs generously with salt and pepper. Sear them in a hot skillet for that golden crust. While they’re sizzling, chop your veggies and prepare the sauce. Finally, transfer everything to the crockpot and let time work its magic.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your crockpot beef short ribs by adding different vegetables like carrots or mushrooms. You can also swap out the beef broth for red wine for an extra depth of flavor, or toss in some herbs like rosemary or thyme.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover crockpot beef short ribs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat or pop them back into the crockpot until heated through.

Sometimes I recall the time I made these crockpot beef short ribs for a dinner party and everyone kept coming back for seconds—my heart swelled as I realized I had created food magic!

FAQs :

What are the best sides to serve with Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?

Crockpot Beef Short Ribs pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider creamy mashed potatoes, which absorb the rich sauce perfectly. Roasted vegetables add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast. A fresh green salad balances the meal, while buttery cornbread can soak up the savory juices. For a heartier option, serve with polenta or rice. These sides enhance the dish without overpowering the tender beef, making for a well-rounded dining experience.

How long do you cook Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?

Cooking Crockpot Beef Short Ribs generally takes about 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 4 to 5 hours on high heat. The longer cooking time allows the meat to become exceptionally tender and flavorful as it breaks down in the slow cooker. Ensure that you check for doneness; the meat should easily fall off the bone when done. Adjust cooking times based on your specific crockpot model for optimal results.

Can I prepare Crockpot Beef Short Ribs in advance?

Yes, you can prepare Crockpot Beef Short Ribs in advance, which is one of their many benefits! Simply season and sear the ribs ahead of time, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator overnight. You can also assemble all ingredients in your crockpot insert and refrigerate it separately. In the morning, place it directly into your slow cooker and set it to cook. This method saves time and allows flavors to meld beautifully.

What type of beef is best for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?

For delicious Crockpot Beef Short Ribs, choose bone-in short ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness. These cuts contain marbled fat that renders down during cooking, enriching your dish. Look for ribs with good meat coverage on the bone; this ensures a juicy outcome. Chuck short ribs are also an excellent alternative due to their flavor profile and texture when slow-cooked. Always opt for quality beef from a trusted source for the best results.

Conclusion for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs :

Crockpot Beef Short Ribs offer a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With simple preparation and minimal active cooking time, this dish allows flavors to deepen as it simmers slowly. Pairing it with complementary sides enhances its richness while providing balance on your plate. Whether made ahead or enjoyed fresh, these tender short ribs promise satisfaction with every bite, making them an ideal choice for family dinners or gatherings. Enjoy this hearty recipe that embraces simplicity and robust flavors!

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Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

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Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are the ultimate comfort food, featuring tender, fall-off-the-bone meat simmered in a rich, savory sauce. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and enjoy a meal that brings everyone together around the table.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 8 hours
• Total Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3 lbs beef short ribs
• 2 medium sweet onions, chopped
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar

Instructions

1. Season beef short ribs with salt and pepper. In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the ribs on all sides until browned (about 3 minutes per side).
2. Place seared ribs in the crockpot with chopped onions and minced garlic.
3. Pour in beef broth and red wine.
4. In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and brown sugar; pour over the ribs.
5. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
6. Serve hot with sauce drizzled on top.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 rib (approximately 170g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 95mg

Keywords: - For added flavor, consider adding carrots or mushrooms to the crockpot. - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.