The Best Short Ribs in Crock Pot: Fall-Off-The-Bone & High-Protein

When it comes to hearty comfort food, short ribs in crock pot are hard to beat. This recipe takes a flavorful, fall-off-the-bone cut of beef and transforms it into a rich, satisfying dish all with the magic of slow cooking. No need to fuss over the stove or heat your oven. Just set it and forget it, and come home to the irresistible aroma of perfectly cooked short ribs in crock pot.

This high-protein meal is ideal for anyone looking for something cozy, nourishing, and simple to prepare. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, feeding a crowd, or meal prepping for the week, short ribs in crock pot offer the kind of taste and tenderness that makes everyone ask for seconds.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best recipe for short ribs in crock pot, storage and meal prep tips, nutrition facts, serving suggestions, and delicious variations. If you’re ready to turn your crock pot into your favorite kitchen tool, this is the dish that will make it happen.

Great! Let’s dive into the Recipe Section. This includes:

• Prep & Cook Time
• Ingredients
• Step-by-step instructions
• Pro tips
• Realistic nutritional breakdown per serving

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Slow Cooker Short Ribs Recipe (Crock Pot)

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 7–8 hours on low (or 4–5 hours on high)
• Total Time: ~8 hours
• Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

• 3 to 3.5 lbs bone-in beef short ribs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
• 1 large yellow onion, sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup of dry red wine for richness, or swap it for beef broth if you’d rather skip the alcohol.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Sear the Short Ribs

Warm olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet set to medium-high. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper. Brown the ribs evenly on all sides, cooking each for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a crust. This adds a rich depth of flavor to your short ribs in crock pot.

2. Build the Flavor Base

Transfer the seared ribs to the crock pot. In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and carrots for 3–5 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, then deglaze with red wine.

3. Add to Crock Pot

Pour the skillet mixture over the short ribs. Add beef broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Ensure the short ribs are mostly submerged in the cooking liquid for even braising. Place the lid on and slow-cook for 7–8 hours on low or 4–5 hours on high, until the meat is fork-tender and easily pulls from the bone.

4. Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

Remove the ribs and vegetables, and set aside. Turn the crock pot to high. Whisk 1 tablespoon cornstarch with 2 tablespoons cold water, stir into the liquid, and cook uncovered for 10–15 minutes to thicken.

5. Serve

Serve your short ribs in crock pot over mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash, polenta, or buttered noodles. Spoon the rich sauce over the top.

Pro Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Short Ribs

• Don’t skip the sear. Browning the ribs is essential for a deep, beefy flavor.
• Use bone-in ribs. Bone-in ribs maintain their shape during slow cooking and release natural collagen that enriches the sauce.
• Red wine tip: A dry wine like Cabernet or Merlot works best to avoid sweet wines.
• Make-ahead tip: This dish tastes even better the next day. Cool completely and reheat gently.

Realistic Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~520 kcal
Protein	~38g
Fat	~35g
Saturated Fat	~12g
Carbohydrates	~8g
Fiber	1.5g
Sugar	~3g
Sodium	~540mg
Cholesterol	~115mg

Nutrition estimates based on USDA data for beef short ribs and listed ingredients.

Meal Prep & Storage Tips for Short Ribs in Crock Pot

Making short ribs in crock pot isn’t just about creating an unforgettable dinner; it’s also about getting the most out of your time and ingredients. This dish is perfect for meal prep because it stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Safe Storage Guidelines (USDA-Approved)

Storing leftover short ribs safely ensures you get all the flavor without risking foodborne illness. Here’s what the USDA recommends:

• Cool quickly: Transfer leftovers to shallow containers and refrigerate within 2 hours.
• Refrigerator: Store cooked short ribs for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags.
• Reheat safely: Warm slowly in a covered pan on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to retain moisture.

Meal Prep Tips

These slow-cooked beef short ribs get better with time, making them ideal for prep-ahead meals.

• Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a future weeknight dinner.
• Next-day flavor boost: After chilling overnight, skim the fat off the top before reheating for a cleaner, richer sauce.
• Pre-portion meals: Pair individual servings with sides like mashed cauliflower or roasted veggies.

Want more protein-packed prep ideas? Check out these reader favorites:

• Crock Pot Chicken Shawarma – high in protein, bold in flavor
• Crock Pot Beef Stew – another slow-cooker comfort classic
• High-Protein Burger Bowls – meal prep perfection without the bun

Storage Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t leave ribs in the crock pot on “warm” for more than 2 hours. Bacteria can grow at unsafe temperatures.
• Don’t refreeze previously thawed and reheated ribs. This can degrade texture and safety.

For full guidelines, visit the USDA Slow Cooker Food Safety page.

Nutrition & Health Benefits of Short Ribs in a Crock Pot

When prepared correctly, short ribs in crock pot offer more than just melt-in-your-mouth flavor; they provide a serious nutritional punch that supports everything from muscle growth to immune function.

Here’s what makes this meal not just satisfying, but smart.

High in Protein for Muscle Recovery

Beef short ribs are naturally rich in complete protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids. Each serving of crock pot short ribs offers around 38 grams of protein, helping:

• Repair and build lean muscle
• Support hormone and enzyme production
• Promote satiety and reduce mindless snacking

See USDA short rib protein data

Rich in Micronutrients

Slow-cooked short ribs aren’t just about macronutrients. They also provide essential micronutrients like:

• Iron: Critical for oxygen transport and energy
• Zinc: Supports immune function and wound healing
• B vitamins (especially B12): Help regulate energy production and support cognitive health

These nutrients come from both the meat and the bone marrow, which slowly infuses the broth during long, low cooking.

Collagen & Connective Tissue Support

When you cook short ribs in crock pot, you’re not just softening the meat; you’re breaking down collagen from the bones and connective tissue. This collagen becomes gelatin, which may:

• Improve joint and skin health
• Support gut lining integrity
• Aid recovery from strenuous workouts

Mindful of Fat & Sodium

Short ribs are a fattier cut, which is part of what gives them their tenderness and flavor. However, that means they also contain:

• ~35g total fat, with ~12g saturated fat per serving
• Varying levels of sodium, depending on your broth or seasoning

👉 Pro tip: Use low-sodium beef broth and trim excess fat before cooking for a leaner, heart-healthier version.

USDA sodium & fat data for cooked beef short ribs

Balanced Comfort Food

Pairing your short ribs with nutrient-dense sides like:

• Cauliflower mash or roasted vegetables
• High-protein flatbread
• Legume-based sides like lentil walnut bolognese

Ingredient Highlights: What Makes These Short Ribs in Crock Pot So Flavorful

When you slow-cook short ribs in a crock pot, you’re not just throwing random ingredients into a pot; you’re layering flavor, texture, and nutrition.

Let’s take a closer look at what each component brings to the dish.

1. Bone-In Beef Short Ribs

The star of the show. Beef short ribs are a richly marbled cut sourced from the lower rib area, often near the chuck or plate, prized for their deep flavor and tenderness. When cooked low and slow, they become fork-tender and release collagen into the broth, creating a natural richness.

• Rich in: Protein, iron, B12, and collagen
• Healthline: Is red meat healthy or harmful?
• USDA Nutrition Data – Beef Short Ribs

2. Onion & Garlic

Garlic and onion lay the groundwork for deep, savory flavor, creating the umami-rich base that defines a great short rib dish. The natural sugars in onions caramelize beautifully when sautéed, while garlic infuses the broth with earthy depth.

• Health benefit: Both support immune health and have anti-inflammatory properties
• Healthline: 7 Benefits of Garlic

3. Carrots

Don’t underestimate the humble carrot. It adds natural sweetness to balance the richness of the meat and becomes incredibly tender in the crock pot.

• Rich in: Beta-carotene (Vitamin A), antioxidants
• Pairs well with this similar dish: Crock Pot Beef Stew

4. Red Wine (or Beef Broth)

A splash of red wine brightens the sauce with acidity and layers of flavor, deepening the savory notes of the beef. Not a wine drinker? Use low-sodium beef broth instead for a lighter version.

• Tip: Choose a dry red like Cabernet, Merlot, or Pinot Noir
• Cleveland Clinic: Cooking with wine — what you need to know

5. Tomato Paste

A small spoonful of tomato paste brings concentrated umami, acidity, and color to your sauce.

• Pro tip: Sauté tomato paste for 1–2 minutes before adding liquids to unlock its full flavor

6. Herbs & Aromatics

• Thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, it cuts through the richness
• Bay Leaf: Subtle bitterness adds balance
• Worcestershire Sauce: A dash goes a long way in boosting umami
• Healthline: 10 Herbs With Powerful Health Benefits

7. Cornstarch (Optional)

If you like a thicker sauce, a cornstarch slurry gives you that velvety texture without overpowering the natural beefy flavor.

• You can also substitute arrowroot for a gluten-free option

Serving Pairing Ideas

Complete the plate with these complementary high-protein or fiber-rich sides:

• Cottage Cheese Flatbread – ideal for soaking up the sauce
• High-Protein Burger Bowls – turn leftovers into next-day lunches
• Lentil Walnut Bolognese – a vegetarian pairing for mixed-diet households

Serving Suggestions & Flavor Variations for Short Ribs in Crock Pot

One of the best things about cooking short ribs in crock pot is how versatile they are when it comes to serving. Whether you prefer traditional comfort food or global-inspired dishes, these fall-off-the-bone ribs can adapt to your cravings. The slow-cooked flavor base created by cooking short ribs in crock pot pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides and sauces.

Classic Side Dishes

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes

This is a go-to side for many slow cooker meals, and it’s no surprise why. The richness of the sauce from your short ribs in crock pot coats mashed potatoes perfectly.

2. Buttered Egg Noodles

A pile of egg noodles topped with tender short ribs from the crock pot makes for an incredibly satisfying meal.

3. Polenta or Cheesy Grits

Serve your short ribs in crock pot over creamy polenta or Southern-style grits to add a luxurious texture and flavor balance.

4. Cauliflower Mash

This low-carb option pairs well with the savory sauce that forms when cooking short ribs in a crock pot. It’s a great alternative for lighter meal planning.

5. Roasted Vegetables

Roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts make excellent accompaniments to the richness of crock pot short ribs. Their caramelized edges enhance the slow-cooked flavors.

Global Flavor Variations

Short ribs are used in cuisines all over the world, and when you cook short ribs in crock pot, they absorb any marinade or spice blend like a sponge.

🇰🇷 Korean-Inspired

Replace the wine and Worcestershire with soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, and a touch of sesame oil for a Korean-style twist. Your Korean-style short ribs in crock pot will come out tender with sweet and savory notes.

🇫🇷 French Bistro Style

Try braising with red wine, pearl onions, and mushrooms for a French bistro-inspired take on crock pot short ribs. Add a sprig of rosemary, and you’ve got bistro-worthy short ribs in crock pot.

🇲🇽 Mexican-Style

Add cumin, chipotle in adobo, and orange juice for a bold, smoky variation. Shred the crock pot short ribs and serve in tacos or bowls.

BBQ Flavor Twist

Swap the wine for BBQ sauce and beef broth. After slow cooking your BBQ short ribs in crock pot, finish under the broiler to caramelize the glaze.

Leftover Ideas

Leftover short ribs from the crock pot are just as versatile. Here’s how to transform them:

• Tacos: Add avocado, slaw, and crema
• Sandwiches: Serve on toasted buns with pickles
• Rice Bowls: Add shredded short ribs to the crock pot with steamed rice and veggies
• Breakfast Hash: Combine with potatoes and eggs
• Stuffed Sweet Potatoes: Shred and spoon over baked sweet potatoes with cheese

Slow-cooking short ribs opens the door to countless serving possibilities from weekday dinners to creative leftovers and elegant meal ideas. Whether it’s weeknight comfort or a dinner party centerpiece, this dish delivers both flavor and flexibility.

Comparison: Short Ribs in Crock Pot vs. Other High-Protein Dinners

Dish	Protein (g)	Calories	Fat (g)	Cooking Time	Cooking Method	Notes
Short Ribs in Crock Pot	38g	520	35g	7–8 hrs	Slow Cooker	Rich, tender, bone-in beef with collagen benefits
Grilled Chicken Breast (6 oz)	43g	280	6g	15–20 mins	Grilled	Leanest option, great for low-fat diets
Baked Salmon Fillet (6 oz)	39g	400	20g	20–25 mins	Oven-Baked	High in Omega-3s, heart-healthy
Lentil-Walnut Bolognese (1.5 cups)	22g	350	15g	30 mins	Stovetop	Great plant-based protein, fiber-rich
Crock Pot Chicken Shawarma	36g	430	18g	6 hrs	Slow Cooker	Leaner, spiced alternative with similar convenience

Why Short Ribs in Crock Pot Stand Out

• Collagen-rich from bones and connective tissue
• Great for batch cooking and leftovers
• Offers deep, savory flavor that rivals restaurant meals
• Higher in fat than chicken or plant-based options, but more satiating

If you’re prioritizing protein and flavor, and don’t mind a bit more fat, short ribs in crock pot are an unbeatable slow-cooked choice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Short Ribs in Crock Pot

Even with the simplicity of slow cooking, there are a few pitfalls that can turn a delicious meal into a disappointing one. Here’s what to watch out for when making short ribs in crock pot, so your results are consistently tender, rich, and full of flavor.

1. Skipping the Sear

Searing the ribs before slow cooking isn’t just an extra step; it’s the secret to deep, caramelized flavor. Skipping the sear can leave your short ribs lacking depth and rich, browned flavor.

Pro Tip: Crank up the heat and give each rib space. Crowding the pan prevents a proper sear. A proper sear takes 2–3 minutes per side.

2. Using Boneless Short Ribs

Bone-in short ribs are ideal for crock pot cooking because they’re more flavorful and naturally tenderize through the slow release of collagen.

Boneless can work, but they tend to dry out faster and lack the same richness.

3. Not Enough Liquid

Your short ribs should be mostly submerged in liquid to ensure even cooking and juicy results. Too little broth or wine can cause dryness and uneven texture.

Fix it: Aim for at least 1½ to 2 cups of total liquid in your crock pot.

4. Lifting the Lid Too Often

Every time you open the lid, you release heat and add time to the cooking process. This can cause undercooked ribs and mess with the tenderizing process.

Remember: Trust the process, set it and forget it.

5. Using High Heat for the Entire Cook

Yes, you can cook short ribs on high for 4–5 hours, but low and slow is always better. Cooking on low for 7–8 hours allows the connective tissue to fully break down, resulting in that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

6. Not Skimming the Fat

After cooking, the sauce will have a layer of fat on top. If you serve it as-is, the flavor can feel greasy or heavy.

Fix it: Chill the dish, then skim the hardened fat or use a spoon while the sauce is warm to remove excess.

7. Overloading the Crock Pot

Too many ribs or added ingredients can crowd the pot and lead to uneven cooking. Keep everything in a single layer if possible, and use a large enough slow cooker (6–8 quarts recommended).

Avoiding these simple mistakes can turn good short ribs in crock pot into unforgettable ones, juicy, flavorful, and falling off the bone every time.

Frequently Asked Questions: Short Ribs in Crock Pot

Conclusion: Why You’ll Keep Coming Back to Short Ribs in a Crock Pot

There’s a reason short ribs in crock pot have earned their place as a go-to comfort food: they’re effortless, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. With minimal prep and a hands-off cooking process, you get restaurant-quality results that fall off the bone and melt in your mouth.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping for the week, or hosting dinner guests, slow-cooked short ribs offer the kind of savory depth that never goes out of style. From classic mashed potatoes to bold international variations, the pairing options are endless, and so are the leftovers.

Ready to Cook?

If you’ve never tried making short ribs in crock pot, now’s your moment. Grab your ingredients, let the slow cooker do its magic, and treat yourself to a meal that tastes like a hug in a bowl.

Don’t Miss Out

• Tried this recipe? Share your version or ask a question in the comments.
• Bookmark this guide or pin it for later. Trust us, you’ll want to make it again.
• Discover more slow-cooked and high-protein recipes to elevate your meal game.

Print