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CrockPot Beef Short Ribs With Rich Gravy Recipe


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4.4 from 40 reviews

  • Author: Sara
  • Total Time: 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if flour omitted)

Description

Tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs slow-cooked in a rich, savory gravy. This comforting and deeply flavorful meal is perfect for cozy dinners, enhanced by aromatics and a luscious gravy made from beef broth, tomato paste, and herbs.


Ingredients

Beef Ribs and Vegetables

  • 3 pounds beef short ribs
  • 1 cup onion, sliced
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce

  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste


Instructions

  1. Season the ribs: Generously season the beef short ribs with salt and black pepper on all sides to build the foundation of flavor.
  2. Brown the ribs (optional): For extra depth of flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ribs on each side until well-seared, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step is optional but recommended.
  3. Arrange in crockpot: Place the ribs in the crockpot along with sliced onions, chopped carrots, and minced garlic, distributing evenly around the meat.
  4. Prepare cooking liquid: In a bowl, whisk together beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme until fully incorporated.
  5. Combine and cook: Pour the broth mixture over the ribs and vegetables. Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until the ribs are tender and falling off the bone.
  6. Remove ribs and keep warm: Carefully take out the ribs and set aside, keeping them warm for serving.
  7. Thicken the gravy (optional): Pour the cooking liquid into a saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer on the stovetop. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to thicken the gravy, stirring constantly until you achieve a rich, smooth consistency.
  8. Serve: Plate the ribs and generously spoon the thickened gravy and cooked vegetables over them. Enjoy with mashed potatoes, rice, or your preferred side dish.

Notes

  • Serve the beef short ribs with creamy mashed potatoes or steamed rice to soak up the rich gravy.
  • For a lighter gravy, skim off excess fat from the cooking liquid before thickening.
  • If gluten-free, omit the flour or use a gluten-free thickening agent like cornstarch.
  • The optional browning step adds richness but can be skipped for convenience.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American