When you want a meal that speaks comfort with every bite, these Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs deliver. Rich, melt-in-your-mouth tender meat with deep savory flavor is slow-cooked to perfection, giving you all the indulgence of a fancy restaurant dinner with hardly any effort.

The beauty of this dish is how the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting. You start with searing the beef for a golden crust, layer in aromatic vegetables, and let it all simmer low and slow in a luxurious sauce that thickens naturally. Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes or buttered noodles, and you’ve got a dinner that’s downright swoon-worthy.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs Recipe

This recipe is the definition of fuss-free comfort food. You get that classic slow-cooked flavor without hovering over a stove all day. The ribs become fall-off-the-bone tender and are packed with flavor from a deeply savory broth enriched with onions, garlic, and herbs.

Even better, it’s an ideal make-ahead meal. The flavor improves even more the next day, making leftovers an absolute treat. Whether it’s a family Sunday dinner or you’re simply craving something cozy, this dish hits all the right notes.

What Kind of Short Ribs Should I Use?

When shopping, look for English-cut beef short ribs. These are cut parallel to the bone and offer a good balance of meat and fat. Boneless short ribs can work too, but bone-in adds richness to the final dish as it cooks.

Flanken-style short ribs are best for grilling, so for this slow cooker recipe, stick with the English cut to get that classic tender texture and full flavor.

Ingredients for the Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

This hearty recipe leans on pantry staples to bring out incredible flavor. You’ll be surprised how these simple ingredients turn into something so deeply satisfying.

Beef short ribs – The star of the dish, these become incredibly tender as they slow cook.
Onion – Adds sweetness and depth as it caramelizes during cooking.
Garlic – A must-have for building robust flavor.
Beef broth – Creates the savory base and helps tenderize the meat.
Tomato paste – Adds body and a slight tang that enhances the sauce.
Red wine – Optional, but recommended for a rich, full-bodied flavor.
Worcestershire sauce – Brings umami that balances the richness of the beef.
Thyme & rosemary – Earthy herbs that infuse the dish with aroma.
Salt & pepper – Simple seasoning that ties everything together.
Olive oil – For browning the ribs before they go into the slow cooker.

How To Make the Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

Step 1: Sear the Ribs

Pat the short ribs dry and season them generously with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the ribs on all sides until nicely browned. This step locks in flavor and gives a caramelized exterior.

Step 2: Layer in the Flavor

Transfer the seared ribs to your slow cooker. Add sliced onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, herbs, Worcestershire sauce, and pour in the beef broth and wine (if using). Give everything a gentle mix so the flavors combine.

Step 3: Cook Low and Slow

Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the meat is fall-apart tender. If you’re short on time, you can cook on high for 5-6 hours, but low is best for maximum tenderness.

Step 4: Serve and Savor

Remove the ribs carefully—they’ll be very tender. If you want a thicker sauce, pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and simmer for a few minutes until slightly reduced. Serve the ribs with your favorite side and spoon that rich sauce on top.

How to Serve and Store Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs

This recipe serves about 4 to 6 people depending on portion size. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner with loved ones or even a cozy dinner party.

Serve these short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes, polenta, or buttered egg noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a dash of fresh cracked pepper for a polished finish.

To store leftovers, transfer the ribs and sauce to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs?

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are the ultimate pairing, soaking up every bit of the sauce.

Roasted Garlic Green Beans

Bright and fresh, these bring a bit of crunch and contrast to the rich meat.

Buttery Egg Noodles

Simple and satisfying, noodles let the beef and sauce shine.

Creamed Spinach

A velvety green side that complements the deep flavors of the short ribs.

Dinner Rolls

Use them to mop up that slow-cooked gravy—so good.

Glazed Carrots

A touch of sweetness balances the savory meat beautifully.

Parmesan Polenta

Creamy polenta adds a touch of elegance and is just as comforting.

Apple Walnut Salad

A crisp salad offers brightness and a bit of acidity to refresh the palate.

Want More Beef Dinner Ideas?

If you love these Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs, here are more beefy dishes you might enjoy:

Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a cheesy, family-friendly comfort dish.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that comes together fast with a luscious texture.
Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for indulgent, cheesy goodness.
Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you’re craving extra-rich pasta with hearty ground beef.
Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce that gives you baked comfort with a gooey top.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use wine or skip it? Did you go with mashed potatoes or noodles?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food dishes and family-friendly meals on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy recipe.