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Tender Slow Cooker Short Ribs on a white plate with vibrant carrots and fresh thyme, glistening with rich sauce

Slow Cooker Short Ribs

This Slow Cooker Short Ribs recipe transforms tough beef into tender perfection with minimal effort. Enjoy a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that saves you time while delivering rich, comforting flavors.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 6 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 6 hours 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 pounds bone-in beef short ribs
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 4 medium carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 4 fresh thyme sprigs
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 2 large onions, cut into 1/2-inch wedges
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups dry red wine or beef broth
  • 4 teaspoons cornstarch
  • 3 tablespoons cold water
  • to taste Salt and pepper

Method
 

  1. Season the short ribs: Sprinkle the ribs evenly with salt and pepper on all sides.
  2. Brown the beef: Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the ribs in batches, browning them on all sides. Transfer to your slow cooker.
  3. Prepare the veggies: Place the carrots, broth, thyme, and bay leaf over the ribs in the slow cooker.
  4. Sauté the aromatics: Using the same skillet, cook the onions for 8-9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. Add garlic and tomato paste; cook for 1 more minute. Pour in the wine and bring to a boil. Cook for 8-10 minutes, reducing the liquid by half.
  5. Combine and slow cook: Pour the onion-wine mixture into the slow cooker. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the beef is fork-tender.
  6. Thicken the sauce: Remove the ribs and veggies. Strain the juices into a small saucepan, discarding the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Skim fat, then bring to a boil. Mix the cornstarch and water, then stir into the pan. Cook for 1-2 minutes until nicely thickened.
  7. Serve: Plate the ribs and veggies, and spoon over that velvety sauce. Enjoy!

Notes

Don't skip searing the ribs. It adds richness to the final dish.