Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs
Think you need expensive equipment or chef-level skills to achieve fall-off-the-bone beef ribs? What if the secret to incredible texture lies not in a fancy smoker, but in the gentle, steady heat of your countertop appliance? The answer is a definitive yes, and this recipe for Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs proves it.
By using the slow cooker, you allow the tough connective tissues in the beef to break down gradually over several hours, transforming them into an unbelievably succulent and flavorful dish. This method is incredibly forgiving, making these Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Slow Cooker Beef Ribs
These slow cooker beef ribs are tender, succulent, and flavorful with an intensely beefy flavor and melt-in-your-mouth fat. They are cooked slowly for several hours and finished under the broiler for a perfect crust.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
- Method: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 4 pounds beef back ribs – 7-8 ribs
- 2 teaspoons smoked salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- If your ribs come in a full rack, turn the rack bone side up. Use a well-sharpened butcher's knife or chef's knife to cut the rack into individual ribs.
- Prepare the seasoning mix: In a small bowl, mix the smoked salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and dried thyme.
- Turn the ribs bone side down. Season them with the seasoning mix, pressing to help the spices adhere to the meat.
- Layer the ribs in a 6-quart slow cooker pan. Add ½ cup of water to the bottom of the pan.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6 hours.
- Fit an oven rack 6 inches below the broiler element (not directly below) and heat your broiler on high (500°F). Arrange the ribs on a foil-lined, rimmed baking sheet. Baste them with the cooking liquids.
- Broil the ribs briefly to brown them, for about 2 minutes.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
Searing the ribs before slow cooking is optional but adds extra flavor through caramelization. These ribs pair well with mashed potatoes, polenta, or gnocchi. Broiling at the end creates a delicious crust.
Nutrition
- Calories: 816
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 900
- Fat: 60
- Saturated Fat: 25
- Unsaturated Fat: 34
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 4
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 65
- Cholesterol: 180
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to cook beef short ribs in a crockpot?
For the most tender results, cook your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs on the low setting for 7-8 hours. Cooking on high for 4-5 hours is possible, but low and slow yields the best texture.
Should I sear the short ribs before putting them in the crockpot?
Yes, searing the ribs first is highly recommended. Searing creates a flavorful crust through the Maillard reaction, which significantly deepens the overall taste of your Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. These Super Tender Crockpot Beef Short Ribs reheat beautifully. Let the ribs cool in their cooking liquid, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
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