Making Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs is super easy and results in a fall-apart tender, decadent, gourmet dinner! Perfect for the holidays or a special birthday dinner.
1/2teaspoonred pepper flakes(increase if you want more heat)
2teaspoonssalt(plus more to taste)
1/2teaspoonblack pepper(plus more to taste)
5lbsbone-in English-style beef short ribs, trimmed of excess fat and cut crosswise into 2-inch pieces*
2tablespoonscornstarch(optional, but recommended)
Fresh parsley, chopped(as garnish)
*Ask your butcher to do this for you! You might even want to call ahead.
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Instructions
Prep Marinade: In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the beef broth, vinegar, soy sauce, honey, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Cook: Place the ribs in the crockpot. Pour the marinade over the top and stir to coat the ribs. Cover and cook on LOW for 8 to 10 hours. Use tongs to transfer the ribs to a serving platter.
Thicken Sauce: Optional, but recommended: Carefully pour or ladle the remaining juices from the crockpot into a medium saucepan. In a small bowl, stir together the cornstarch and 2 tablespoons water until smooth. Whisk this into the sauce and bring to a boil. Cook, whisking regularly, until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Serve: Drizzle some of the sauce over the ribs and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve warm with extra sauce on the side. Tip: These are delicious served over warm mashed potatoes or polenta.
Freezer Instructions
To Freeze For Later: Follow Step 1. Place the ribs and sauce in either a 2-gallon freezer bag or two, 1-gallon freezer bags. Seal tightly and freeze.Prepare From Frozen:Note: You will need cornstarch and parsley on hand to complete this meal. Thaw in the refrigerator completely. Follow Steps 2-4.
Notes/Tips
Be sure to ask the butcher counter to cut your short ribs into 2-inch pieces and to trim off some of the fat. It will be a huge help to you.
Instant Pot Version: Make this same recipe in your pressure cooker using our Instant Pot Short Ribs recipe.
Try This Recipe with Chuck Roast Instead: If you love this sauce but want a cheaper cut of beef, try making our Balsamic Shredded Beef. Delicious!
Alternative Way to Serve Short Ribs: Shred the meat off the bones and serve with the thickened sauce over mashed potatoes or polenta.