Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

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If you’re dreaming of tender, fall-off-the-bone beef that’s rich in flavor and melts in your mouth, these Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs are just the comfort food you need. With deep, savory notes from slow braising and an irresistible, sticky glaze, this dish brings the kind of hearty warmth you crave on a chilly evening.

Perfect for Sunday dinners or special gatherings, these ribs require minimal prep yet deliver a restaurant-quality result. The slow cooker does all the work, transforming humble ingredients into a luxurious main course. Served over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery noodles, this is the kind of meal that earns a spot in your regular rotation.

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What Kind of Beef Short Ribs Should I Use?

For best results, use bone-in English-cut beef short ribs. These are thick, meaty, and perfect for long braising. Flanken-style ribs can also be used, but keep in mind they cook faster and may not offer the same rich texture. Always choose ribs with good marbling—the fat renders down beautifully during cooking and adds loads of flavor.

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Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

Beef Short Ribs: The star of the show—choose bone-in, well-marbled ribs for maximum tenderness and richness.

Onion: Adds aromatic sweetness and depth to the base of the sauce.

Garlic: Essential for bold, savory notes that round out the flavor.

Beef Broth: A rich, umami-packed liquid that enhances the natural beef flavor.

Worcestershire Sauce: Brings a tangy complexity and helps deepen the sauce’s savory profile.

Tomato Paste: Adds body, a hint of acidity, and vibrant color to the sauce.

Brown Sugar: Balances the savory with a touch of sweetness that caramelizes beautifully.

Thyme & Bay Leaf: These herbs infuse the sauce with subtle earthiness and aroma.

Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that allow the other flavors to shine.

Cornstarch (optional): For thickening the sauce into a luscious gravy at the end.

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How To Make the Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

Step 1: Sear for Flavor

Season the short ribs with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet, sear them on all sides until they develop a deep brown crust. This step locks in flavor and adds depth to the finished dish.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

In the same pan, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar. Cook briefly to caramelize.

Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker

Place the seared ribs in the slow cooker. Pour the sauce over them, then add beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

Once the ribs are fork-tender, remove them carefully. Skim off any excess fat. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry and simmer in a saucepan until thickened.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the ribs over mashed potatoes, noodles, or creamy polenta. Drizzle with sauce and garnish with fresh thyme.

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Tips for Serving and Storing Your Beef Short Ribs

These beef short ribs are best served hot, straight from the slow cooker. They pair beautifully with buttery mashed potatoes or a rustic root vegetable mash.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep them moist. They also freeze well for up to 3 months—perfect for meal prepping.

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What to Serve With Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

The silky texture complements the richness of the beef and soaks up all that delicious sauce.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

Try these Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes for an earthy-sweet side.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

This cheesy potato casserole brings extra indulgence to the plate.

Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls

Sop up every drop of sauce with pillowy, garlicky rolls.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

Crispy and golden, these potatoes add texture to your meal.

Creamy Cranberry Salad

A refreshing, creamy salad to lighten up the plate.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If these slow cooker beef short ribs made your day, you’ll love these other Savor Queen favorites:

• Easy Beef Stroganoff for creamy comfort in under 30 minutes.
• Slow Cooker Chicken and Dumplings that wrap you in warmth.
• French Onion Beef Rice Casserole for savory, cheesy bliss.
• Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy if you’re craving stick-to-your-ribs comfort.
• The Best Turkey Meatloaf for a lighter, juicy twist on classic meatloaf.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this cozy favorite to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it on your next craving-for-comfort-food kind of night.

Did you try a twist on this classic? Maybe added a splash of red wine or used balsamic glaze? I’d love to hear your version—drop it in the comments below.

For more recipe inspiration, check out my daily kitchen creations on Savor Queen on Pinterest. Your next crave-worthy dinner could be waiting for you there.

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