Imagine walking into your kitchen and being greeted by the most incredible aroma of slow-cooked beef that practically melts in your mouth. These Easy Slow Cooker Short Ribs are not just a meal – they're a culinary experience that transforms an ordinary dinner into an extraordinary feast. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is your ticket to becoming the hero of your family's dinner table, without spending hours slaving over a hot stove.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 8 hrs
Total Time: 8 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 3 lbs beef short ribs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves. Set them aside for later use.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, season the beef short ribs with salt and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the short ribs and sear them on all sides until they are browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.
- After searing, transfer the short ribs to the slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the ribs.
- In a separate bowl, combine the beef broth, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Stir well until the brown sugar is dissolved.
- Pour the beef broth mixture over the short ribs and vegetables in the slow cooker, ensuring that the ribs are well-coated.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for 8 hours. This slow cooking process will make the short ribs tender and flavorful.
- After 8 hours, check the ribs for tenderness. They should be falling off the bone. If they are, carefully remove them from the slow cooker and place them on a serving platter.
- Optionally, you can skim off any excess fat from the sauce in the slow cooker. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can transfer the sauce to a saucepan and simmer it over medium heat until it reduces to your desired consistency.
- Serve the short ribs with the sauce drizzled over them. They pair well with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Enjoy your Easy Slow Cooker Short Ribs with family and friends!
Tips
- Choose the Right Cut: Look for well-marbled beef short ribs, as the fat content contributes to that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.
- Searing is Non-Negotiable: Never skip the searing step! Those beautiful brown edges lock in flavor and create a delicious crust that elevates the entire dish.
- Low and Slow is the Way to Go: Resist the temptation to rush the cooking process. Eight hours on low heat ensures the most tender, fall-apart meat.
- Sauce Thickness Matters: If you prefer a thicker sauce, create a quick slurry with cornstarch and water, then stir it into the cooking liquid during the last 30 minutes.
- Make Ahead Friendly: These short ribs actually taste even better the next day, so don't hesitate to prepare them in advance for meal prep or entertaining.
- Flavor Boosters: For an extra flavor kick, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of tomato paste to the braising liquid.Pro tip: Let the meat rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is incredibly succulent!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 120mg
