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Easy Dump Slow Cooker Beef Short Ribs Recipe Perfect for Busy Weeknights

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A simple, set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker recipe for tender, fall-off-the-bone beef short ribs with rich, savory flavor—perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3–4 pounds beef short ribs (well-marbled)
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • A few sprigs fresh thyme (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for searing)

Instructions

  1. Pat the short ribs dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
  2. Optional: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the ribs 2-3 minutes per side until browned.
  3. Place sliced onions and minced garlic at the bottom of the slow cooker.
  4. Arrange the ribs on top of the onions and garlic, stacking carefully without overcrowding.
  5. In a bowl, combine beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar; stir until well mixed.
  6. Pour the sauce evenly over the ribs, making sure they are mostly submerged but not swimming.
  7. Add a few sprigs of fresh thyme for herbal brightness.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours until ribs are tender and fall off the bone.
  9. Remove ribs and keep warm. To thicken sauce, simmer cooking liquid in a saucepan over medium heat until reduced and syrupy.
  10. Serve ribs with sauce spooned over, paired with mashed potatoes, polenta, or a fresh green salad.

Notes

Searing ribs is optional but recommended for deeper flavor. Do not overcrowd the slow cooker to ensure even cooking. Avoid lifting the lid during cooking to prevent extended cooking time. Sauce can be thickened by simmering or adding a cornstarch slurry. Adjust seasoning after cooking. For gluten-free, verify Worcestershire sauce label. Variations include adding chipotle for spice or swapping Worcestershire for soy sauce for an Asian twist.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker beef short ribs, dump and go recipe, easy beef ribs, weeknight dinner, slow cooker recipe, beef ribs slow cooked

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