Beef Short Ribs in a Crock Pot

Recipe By:

Lily Hartwell

Posted:

July 7, 2025

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It’s a chilly Sunday evening when the air is filled with the aroma of savory goodness wafting through my kitchen. Picture tender beef short ribs, marinated in a flavorful sauce, bubbling away in a cozy crock pot. The anticipation is palpable as I pop open the lid to reveal this culinary masterpiece that promises to warm both hearts and stomachs alike.

I remember the first time I made these delicious beef short ribs in a crock pot for my friends. Their eyes widened with delight as they took their first bite—their enthusiastic “Mmm!” echoed throughout the room like sweet music. It was one of those moments where you just know you’ve hit the jackpot in the kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare; simply toss everything into the crock pot and let it do its magic.
The flavor profile is rich and robust, making every bite memorable.
Visually, the dish presents beautifully with succulent meat that practically falls off the bone.
It’s versatile enough for casual dinners or special occasions—perfect for impressing guests!

I once made these for a casual game night and ended up running out—who knew my friends could devour so much deliciousness?

Essential Ingredients

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

Beef Short Ribs: Choose well-marbled ribs for maximum flavor and tenderness; bone-in works best.
Onions: Sweet onions will add a lovely depth of flavor; chop them roughly for an easy prep.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; they infuse an aromatic punch into the dish.
Beef Broth: Low-sodium broth helps control saltiness while adding moisture and flavor.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce for taste without overwhelming saltiness; it’s perfect here.
Brown Sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.
Dried Thyme: A wonderful herb that complements meat dishes; sprinkle generously for extra flavor.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked pepper enhances all other flavors and adds just the right spice.
Carrots (optional): Chopped carrots not only add color but also enhance sweetness and nutrition.
Potatoes (optional): Tossing in some diced potatoes makes this dish even heartier; they’re perfect for soaking up flavors.

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

Let’s Make It Together

Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on your kitchen counter. Chop your onions and garlic finely to release their aromatic goodness while preparing your other components.

Sear the Short Ribs

Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear each side of your beef short ribs until they develop a beautiful brown crust—about 3-4 minutes per side adds depth to flavor.

Combine Everything in the Crock Pot

Place the seared short ribs into your trusty crock pot along with chopped onions, garlic, soy sauce, brown sugar, thyme, black pepper, and beef broth. If using carrots or potatoes, toss them in too!

Set It and Forget It

Cover your crock pot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours. When done, those aromas will make you want to dance around your kitchen.

Serve with Love

Once finished cooking, carefully remove the short ribs from the crock pot—they’ll be incredibly tender! Serve them alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up that glorious sauce.

Enjoy!

Dig into this comforting meal with family or friends—expect lots of satisfied sighs at every table!

Now you have everything you need to create mouthwatering beef short ribs in a crock pot that’s sure to become an instant favorite! Enjoy this journey through flavors and textures while sharing delightful moments with loved ones around your dinner table.

You Must Know

Searing the beef short ribs enhances flavor and texture, creating a delicious crust.
Use a variety of vegetables for depth in flavor and color.
Letting the dish rest after cooking allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by searing your beef short ribs for that rich, caramelized flavor. While they rest, sauté onions and garlic in the same pot to capture all those tasty bits. Add your veggies and broth before returning the ribs to the party.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on seasonality or personal preference. Throw in sweet potatoes or even mushrooms for an earthy twist. A splash of soy sauce can also add an umami kick that elevates everything.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat on the stove or in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly tender beef short ribs, cook on low for at least eight hours; patience pays off!
Ensure you have enough liquid while cooking, as this prevents drying out.
When reheating, add a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

I once made beef short ribs for a family gathering, and everyone went back for seconds! Their smiles and full bellies reminded me why I love cooking—it’s about sharing joy with those you love.

FAQ

What cut of beef should I use for crock pot cooking?

Use well-marbled cuts like chuck roast or brisket for optimal flavor and tenderness.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep everything a day ahead and refrigerate before cooking.

What side dishes pair well with beef short ribs?

Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables to complement their richness.

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