Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Recipe

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Craving melt-in-your-mouth beef that practically falls apart? This Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe delivers rich, savory short ribs braised to perfection in a slow cooker, with just 15 minutes of prep. Seasoned simply and simmered in a flavorful broth with a hint of rosemary, it’s an effortless dish that’s ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests. Let the crockpot do the work, and enjoy these succulent Crockpot Beef Short Ribs after a hands-off 8-hour cook that fills your home with irresistible aromas.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Tender Meat: Slow cooking makes these Crockpot Beef Short Ribs unbelievably juicy.
  • Minimal Prep: Just 15 minutes to start, then set it and forget it.
  • Rich Flavor: Broth, Worcestershire, and rosemary create a deep, savory taste.
  • Versatile: Bone-in or boneless—works either way.
  • Comfort Food: Perfect for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Tools Needed

Milk Frother

Milk Frother

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Meat Thermometer

Meat Thermometer

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Olive Oil Sprayer

Olive Oil Sprayer

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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:

  • Crockpot (Slow Cooker): Braises the ribs low and slow for your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.
  • Large Skillet: Sears the meat for extra flavor.
  • Tongs: Handles ribs easily during searing.
  • Measuring Cups: Ensures accurate broth and seasoning 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

  1. Season and Sear: Season 4 pounds of short ribs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Sear each of the 4 sides of the ribs for 60 seconds per side until browned.
  2. Prep Crockpot: In the slow cooker, combine 3 cups beef broth, ¼ cup Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon onion powder. Stir well.
  3. Add Ribs: Place the seared short ribs into the liquid in the crockpot. Top with 1 rosemary sprig.
  4. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart.
  5. Serve: Remove your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs from the crockpot and serve hot with the cooking juices, if desired.

Expert Tips For Perfect Crockpot Beef Short Ribs

  • Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip browning—it locks in taste for this Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe.
  • Check Tenderness: Test with a fork—meat should shred easily.
  • Adjust Time: Bone-in ribs may need closer to 8 hours.
  • Skim Fat: Spoon off excess grease from the broth before serving.

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: Browning adds depth—don’t rush your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.
  • High Heat: Cooking on high can toughen the meat—stick to low.
  • Overcrowding Skillet: Sear in batches if needed for even browning.

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Variations

  • Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes to the broth.
  • Herb Swap: Use thyme instead of rosemary.
  • Wine Boost: Replace ½ cup broth with red wine for richness.
  • Veggie Add: Toss in carrots or onions for a one-pot meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Crockpot Beef Short Ribs in an airtight container with broth in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a slow cooker on low for 1-2 hours or microwave until warm, adding a splash of broth to keep moist. Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and reheat gently.

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FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ribs for Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Thaw first for even searing and cooking.

2. What sides pair with Crockpot Beef Short Ribs?
Mashed potatoes, polenta, or roasted veggies soak up the juices.

3. Can I cook on high instead?
Yes, for 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. Can I skip Worcestershire?
Yes, substitute with soy sauce or extra broth in your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.

6. Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely—mild flavors make it a family hit.

Conclusion

These Crockpot Beef Short Ribs are a slow-cooked dream—tender, flavorful, and effortless, with a rich broth that elevates every bite. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a low-effort feast, they’re a set-it-and-forget-it winner. Sear those ribs, fire up your crockpot, and savor this Crockpot Beef Short Ribs tonight—it’s hearty simplicity at its best!

Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs Recipe

Course: crockpot recipes, RecipesCuisine: American
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

5

hours 
Calories

300

kcal
Total time

5

hours 

15

minutes

Craving melt-in-your-mouth beef that practically falls apart? This Crockpot Beef Short Ribs recipe delivers rich, savory short ribs braised to perfection in a slow cooker, with just 15 minutes of prep. Seasoned simply and simmered in a flavorful broth with a hint of rosemary, it’s an effortless dish that’s ideal for cozy dinners or impressing guests. Let the crockpot do the work, and enjoy these succulent Crockpot Beef Short Ribs after a hands-off 8-hour cook that fills your home with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients

  • 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 of short ribs with 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper. Heat a large skillet over high heat. Sear each of the 4 sides of the ribs for 60 seconds per side until browned.
  • Prep Crockpot: 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 the seared short ribs into the liquid in the crockpot. Top with 1 rosemary sprig.
  • Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the meat is tender and easily pulls apart.
  • Serve: Remove your Crockpot Beef Short Ribs from the crockpot and serve hot with the cooking juices, if desired.