How To Cook Short Ribs In Slow Cooker [GUIDE]

Short ribs are a cut of beef that exudes rich flavor and hearty texture, making them a favorite among home cooks and professional chefs alike. Derived from the lower portion of the cow’s rib cage, these ribs are characterized by their marbling and connective tissue, which, when cooked properly, transforms into a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness. Cooking short ribs in a slow cooker is an ideal method for coaxing out the deepest flavors while keeping the meat juicy and tender. The slow, gentle heat allows the fat and collagen to render slowly, infusing the meat with flavor and creating a luscious, almost silky texture.

Unlike quicker cooking methods, slow cooking allows the flavors of herbs, spices, and aromatics to develop and marry over hours, resulting in a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, slow-cooked short ribs offer a delicious, hands-off solution that elevates any dining experience.

Contents

• 1 How Long To Cook Short Ribs In Slow Cooker
• 2 How To Tell If It Is Done
• 3 Ingredients Needed
• 4 How To Cook Short Ribs In Slow Cooker
• 5 When Things Go Wrong
• 6 Expert Tips
• 7 Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?
• 8 Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker
• 9 FAQs
  • 9.1 What Is The Best Cut Of Short Ribs To Use For Slow Cooking?
  • 9.2 Should I Sear Short Ribs Before Slow Cooking Them?
  • 9.3 How Long Should Short Ribs Cook In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.4 What Is The Best Liquid To Use When Cooking Short Ribs In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.5 How Do I Season Short Ribs For Slow Cooking?
  • 9.6 Should I Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker With The Short Ribs?
  • 9.7 Can I Cook Frozen Short Ribs In A Slow Cooker?
  • 9.8 How Do I Know When Short Ribs Are Done Cooking In The Slow Cooker?
  • 9.9 Can I Thicken The Sauce From The Slow Cooker?
  • 9.10 Can I Cook Short Ribs In A Slow Cooker Overnight?

How Long To Cook Short Ribs In Slow Cooker

The cooking time for short ribs in a slow cooker depends on both the size of the ribs and the temperature setting of your slow cooker. Typically, on low heat, short ribs require 7 to 9 hours, while on high heat, they can be done in 4 to 5 hours. The low-and-slow approach is preferred because it allows the collagen in the meat to break down completely, creating a tender, almost fall-apart texture.

It’s essential to note that cooking time is not an exact science. Factors such as the thickness of the ribs, the type of slow cooker, and even the initial temperature of the meat can slightly alter the total cooking time. Always check for doneness rather than relying solely on the clock.

How To Tell If It Is Done

Short ribs are done when the meat is extremely tender and easily pulls away from the bone with minimal effort. The meat should have a rich, deep-brown color and a slightly glossy surface if braised properly. If you insert a fork, it should slide in effortlessly, and the meat should almost fall apart without needing to be cut aggressively.

Additionally, the internal temperature can serve as a guideline, though slow-cooked short ribs are better judged by texture than temperature. Generally, the meat reaches optimal tenderness at 190°F to 205°F (88°C to 96°C). The connective tissue should have fully gelatinized, creating a velvety sauce when combined with the cooking liquid.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare flavorful slow-cooked short ribs, the following ingredients are commonly used:

• Beef short ribs – 3 to 4 pounds, preferably bone-in for maximum flavor
• Salt and pepper – to season the meat before browning
• Onion – 1 large, sliced or chopped
• Garlic – 3 to 5 cloves, minced
• Carrots – 2 to 3, cut into chunks
• Celery – 2 stalks, chopped
• Beef broth or stock – 2 cups, for braising
• Red wine – 1 cup, optional but adds depth
• Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons, for richness
• Fresh herbs – thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves
• Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce – optional, for umami
• Olive oil or vegetable oil – for searing the meat

These ingredients form a flavor base that enhances the natural richness of the short ribs while creating a succulent braising liquid that can be served as sauce.

How To Cook Short Ribs In Slow Cooker

1. Prep the meat: Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt and pepper. Dry meat sears better, locking in flavor.
2. Sear the ribs: Heat a few tablespoons of oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the short ribs on all sides until a deep caramelized crust forms. This step is optional but highly recommended for richer flavor.
3. Prepare the aromatics: In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for a few minutes until softened and fragrant. Add tomato paste and cook briefly to caramelize slightly.
4. Deglaze the pan: Pour in red wine or a splash of broth, scraping up browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These bits are packed with flavor and will enrich the cooking liquid.
5. Transfer to slow cooker: Place the seared short ribs into the slow cooker, layering the vegetables on top. Pour the broth and deglazed wine mixture over the ribs. Add herbs and optional sauces.
6. Slow cook: Cover and cook on low for 7-9 hours or high for 4-5 hours, until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
7. Finish: Remove the ribs and strain the cooking liquid if desired, reducing it slightly on the stovetop to make a silky sauce. Serve ribs with sauce poured over them.

When Things Go Wrong

Even slow cooking can encounter hiccups:

• Ribs are tough: This usually means the ribs were undercooked or cooked at too high a temperature. Slow cook longer; the meat should eventually become tender.
• Liquid too thin: If the cooking liquid is watery, remove the ribs and reduce the liquid on the stove to thicken.
• Overcooked meat: Rare but possible if left in an extremely hot slow cooker, which can make the meat stringy. Stick to recommended times and low settings for best results.
• Bland flavor: Ensure proper seasoning and consider browning the meat and vegetables before slow cooking for depth.

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip searing: The Maillard reaction during searing adds complexity to the meat’s flavor.
• Layer flavors: Add herbs, wine, and aromatics to create a multidimensional taste.
• Bone-in vs. boneless: Bone-in ribs impart extra richness to the broth, while boneless cooks slightly faster.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the ribs rest in the liquid for 15-20 minutes. This allows flavors to redistribute.
• Skim fat if desired: Chill the cooking liquid; the fat will solidify on top and can be easily removed.

Can I Do This Without A Slow Cooker?

Yes! Short ribs can be braised in a Dutch oven or heavy pot on the stovetop or in the oven. For stovetop: simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours, covered, until tender. In the oven: cook at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours in a covered oven-safe pot. The principle remains the same: low and slow cooking to break down connective tissue.

Reheating Leftovers In Slow Cooker

To reheat short ribs:

1. Place leftover ribs and any remaining sauce in the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally.
3. Avoid high heat, which can overcook and dry out the meat.
4. Alternatively, reheat gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) covered with foil.

Slow reheating ensures the meat stays tender while allowing flavors to meld further.

FAQs

What Is The Best Cut Of Short Ribs To Use For Slow Cooking?

For slow cooking, the best cuts of short ribs are bone-in, as they provide the richest flavor. Look for English-style short ribs, which have a large portion of meat on each bone, or flanken-style ribs, which are cut across the bone into thinner pieces.

Should I Sear Short Ribs Before Slow Cooking Them?

Searing the short ribs before slow cooking them is highly recommended. It helps develop a deeper flavor by creating a caramelized crust on the meat. While it’s not essential, searing can make a noticeable difference in the final taste and texture.

How Long Should Short Ribs Cook In A Slow Cooker?

Short ribs typically take 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 4 to 5 hours on high heat to become tender and fully cooked in a slow cooker. The exact time can vary depending on the thickness of the ribs and the specific model of your slow cooker.

What Is The Best Liquid To Use When Cooking Short Ribs In A Slow Cooker?

The best liquids for cooking short ribs are broth (beef or vegetable), red wine, or a combination of both. You can also use BBQ sauce, a mixture of soy sauce and ginger, or beer for added flavor. The liquid helps to tenderize the meat while imparting moisture and flavor.

How Do I Season Short Ribs For Slow Cooking?

Season short ribs with salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. You can also use a dry rub made of spices like paprika, cumin, or onion powder. For more complex flavors, add soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, or even a touch of brown sugar.

Should I Add Vegetables To The Slow Cooker With The Short Ribs?

Yes, adding vegetables like carrots, onions, potatoes, and celery is a great way to enhance the flavor of your short ribs. These vegetables can cook alongside the meat, absorbing the flavors from the ribs and broth, and serve as a delicious side dish.

Can I Cook Frozen Short Ribs In A Slow Cooker?

It is not recommended to cook frozen short ribs directly in a slow cooker, as they may not cook evenly and can result in food safety concerns. It’s best to thaw the short ribs in the refrigerator overnight before slow cooking them.

How Do I Know When Short Ribs Are Done Cooking In The Slow Cooker?

Short ribs are done when they are fork-tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bone. You can check by using a fork or tongs to test the tenderness. If the meat falls apart easily, it’s ready to serve.

Can I Thicken The Sauce From The Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can thicken the sauce by transferring the liquid to a pot and simmering it over medium heat to reduce it. Alternatively, you can make a slurry with cornstarch and water, then stir it into the sauce and cook for a few minutes until it thickens.

Can I Cook Short Ribs In A Slow Cooker Overnight?

Yes, you can cook short ribs in a slow cooker overnight, but it’s important to use the low heat setting and monitor the cooking time. Most short ribs will cook perfectly for 8 hours on low, but they may become too soft if cooked longer. Consider setting your slow cooker on a timer if possible.