Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

Succulent beef short ribs, slow-cooked until tender in a flavorful, savory sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner and pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 lbs beef short ribs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine (optional, for added richness)
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tsp brown sugar
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Sear the Short Ribs (optional but recommended):
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper.
  • Brown the ribs on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step helps develop a deeper flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.
  • Transfer the seared short ribs to the slow cooker.
  1. Prepare the Sauce:
  • In the same skillet, add chopped onions and garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in tomato paste, cooking for another minute, then pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
  • Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
  1. Slow Cook the Ribs:
  • Pour the sauce mixture over the short ribs in the slow cooker, ensuring the ribs are well-coated in the sauce.
  • Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, until the ribs are tender and easily fall off the bone.
  1. Serve:
  • Once cooked, remove the short ribs from the slow cooker and skim off any excess fat from the sauce.
  • Serve the ribs with the rich sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Enjoy!

These Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs are a hearty and comforting meal, perfect for a cozy dinner. The beef becomes incredibly tender, while the sauce is rich, savory, and full of flavor!

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